What is Moringa?
Moringa oleifera is a fast growing, drought resistant tree native to India but has spread to Asia, South America and Africa. It is highly prized because it is one of thew most nutritionally dense tree on earth that can be consumed by humans.
Moringa is known by many names like the tree of life, the horseradish or the drumstick tree. Oleifera means oil which comes from the seeds.
What are some Benefits of Moringa?
- Nutritionally dense. The leaves, pods and seeds of the moringa tree are rich in antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. As a complete protein moringa leaf powder contains all nine essential amino acids the body needs. It contains over 92 nutrients and over 46 natural antioxidants and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B7, A, C, K, E and D. Due to these massive amounts of nutrients locals have said that is known to cure over 300 diseases.
- Source of Plant Based Protein. When people decide to change their lifestyle from the standard American diet, they are usually worried that they won't get enough protein from eating mostly plants. Just 3 grams of moringa contains all the essential amino acids necessary for music repair, energy production and mood regulation.
- Its Fights Malnutrition. Nature knew what it was doing when it created. Most third world countries live off of a diet of starches because they can always afford nor have access to fresh fruit and vegetables. So even small amounts of moringa can correct these deficiencies.
- It can Improve Digestion. Hippocrates once said, "All disease starts in the gut". Moringa powder contains about 30% fiber, something that we all need for digestion but may also reduce your risk of disease. Its anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to help with digestive disorders. It may also improve gut bacteria.
- Protects the Liver. The liver is the main organ that detoxifies the body. All things that enter the body most first go through the liver. It filters blood, detoxifies chemicals/toxins and also metabolizes fat. Moringa helps it work better. If your liver is functioning properly, it makes your body more resilient reducing how often you may become ill.
How to Consume Moringa
The leaves can be eaten as salad greens. They mix well with any other salad ingredients. The flowers & buds must be cooked. If you own a moringa tree pick the very young pods and cook them. Many say that they taste like asparagus. Shell the young pods and use the seeds as you would peas or fresh beans. Cook the mature seeds, or fry or roast them. They taste like popcorn, to us! Just go easy on them, as they are VERY cleansing!
Is Moringa Safe?
Moringa leaves are safe for most people to used and is commonly consumed in powdered form. During pregnancy it is unsafe to use root, bark or flowers of moringa. Chemicals in the root, bark and flowers might signal the uterus to contract causing miscarriages. Moringa can have a laxative side effect when consumed in large quantities or lead to stomach upset, so we suggest starting with a small dose—½ to 1 teaspoon per day.