Moringa. What is it? And why am I only hearing about it now?
Moringa is a type of plant originating in the Asian and African tropic and subtropical regions. It is largely used as a health supplement popular in many herbal practices. Those who have used Moringa in the past may have heard it called ben oil tree, drumstick tree, horseradish tree or miracle tree and recognize it for its many health benefits. Despite its use across several centuries, it’s still largely unknown to Westerners but can usually be found in many health food stores that specialize in supplements.
What are Moringa’s essential compounds people are familiar with?
• Vitamin A
• Ascorbic Acid
• Calcium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Niacin
• Phosphorus
• Riboflavin
• Thiamine
Moringa is also low in fat and does not contain any harmful cholesterol. The combination of essential compounds makes the supplement a great resource more people of all ages are finding to be beneficial to their diets.
What are some of Moringa’s most helpful health benefits?
Treating asthma – Some of the molecules in Moringa have been linked with managing and preventing asthma, airway inflammation, and other types of bronchial constrictions. Studies are still inconclusive in humans, but a lot of people taking a Moringa extract greatly improved their breathing throughout long periods.
Treating edema – Edema is a medical condition that occurs when fluid builds up in body tissues. It can be caused by numerous health conditions and can affect various parts of the body. It is usually treated by taking prescription strength “water pills” or other diuretics. When applied as a topical (seed oil), anti-inflammatory properties of this plant can reduce skin inflammation.
Treating cancer – A key property of Moringa is niazimicin may help prevent certain types of cancers such as breast, colorectal and liver by killing cancers before and after early detection. Seniors are at higher risk of developing these types of cancers and further research is needed to confirm the effect that extracts from Moringa leaves, bark, and other parts of the plant have in treating certain types of the disease.
Treating diabetes – Early studies have shown that Moringa leaf extract may help people with diabetes by assisting with managing blood sugar and insulin levels, as well as protecting against damage to vital organs associated with persons with diabetes. Some studies suggest that the plant can slow the progression of the disease and prevent future complications.
Protecting the liver – It’s also believed that Moringa might help protect the liver in non-alcoholic related fatty liver disease. One study shows that people who consumed higher concentrations of the leaves experienced lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as less inflammation in the liver.
Reducing high blood pressure – High blood pressure is a serious concern and problem for seniors. A study shows that people who ate at least 120 grams of cooked Moringa leaves for seven days had lower blood pressure just two hours after consuming the leaves compared to a control group that did not consume the leaves.
Preventing rheumatoid arthritis – Seniors are at higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis as they age, making it difficult and painful to partake in various physical activities. According to recent studies, Moringa has anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent the development of rheumatoid arthritis as well as help those who already suffer from the disease.
Protecting the cardiovascular system – In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, Moringa also has a wide range of antioxidants that help promote cardiovascular health in older adults. The plant can lower cholesterol and prevent inflammation, both conditions that have been linked to the development of heart disease in seniors.
Preventing kidney stones – Some of the properties in Moringa extract can deter minerals that cause kidney stones from building up. There is more research to be done in this area, but considering all its health benefits, Moringa might play an important role in flushing out harmful minerals.
Improving eye health – Finally, the beta carotene in Moringa is a strong antioxidant that has been proven to maintain eye health and prevent various types of eye diseases such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma among others.
How are people most commonly taking Moringa?
Taking Moringa as an oral supplement in pill form is a great way to get a daily dose without having to prepare any drinks or foods. However, many people like to use the powder form to mix in juices, smoothies, dips, dressings, bread & baked goods, and desserts. Because it is so versatile many people have even started having Moringa with their morning coffee and tea. Simple mixtures can easily be stirred and combined with foods and drinks of choice without the benefits being lost.
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