Moringa oleifera is a plant that has been consumed for thousands of years due to its health benefits. Its biggest claim to fame is its concentration of antioxidant and bioactive plant compounds. But that’s just the beginning of moringa’s health properties. There is plenty more that this medicinal plant has to offer.
Health Benefits of Moringa
Moringa is Nutrient Dense
Moringa is an extremely nutrient rich plant that can be completely consumed. Every part of the tree is edible or can be used as an ingredient in herbal medicine. The leaves of the moringa tree are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. A single cup of fresh, chopped moringa leaves contains:
- Protein: 2 grams
- Vitamin B6: 19% of the RDA
- Vitamin C: 12% of the RDA
- Iron: 11% of the RDA
- Riboflavin (B2): 11% of the RDA
- Vitamin A (from beta-carotene): 9% of the RDA
- Magnesium: 8% of the RDA
Moringa is Rich in Antioxidants
The antioxidant compounds contained in Moringa target free radicals inside your body. If left unchecked, free radicals can cause oxidative stress which leads to chronic disease like type-2 diabetes and heart disease. Some antioxidants like quercetin and chlorogenic acid help to lower blood pressure and moderate blood glucose levels after eating.
Moringa May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is what happens to your body when it is infected or injured. Although it is a protection mechanism, it can lead to some chronic health problems such as, heart disease or cancer if left unchecked. The moringa plant has a lot of anti-inflammatory compounds like, isothiocyanates, that can reduce inflammation.
How to Consume Moringa
As previously stated, all of the moringa tree is edible, meaning you can consume it in whichever way suits you best:
- Stir into water
- Steep as a tea
- Mix into smoothies
- Sprinkle into soups
- Bake into anything
- Shake into salad
- Take herbal supplements
Summarizing shortly, moringa is nutrient rich and helps in reducing inflammation caused due to injuries and infections. With many health benefits, this medicinal plant is perfect to be included in your food and beverages.
