The Moringa tree is regarded as the "Miracle Tree" for a reason. The tree's therapeutic virtues can be found in its leaves, fruit, sap, oil, roots, bark, seeds, pod, and flowers. The tree's products can be used in a variety of ways. The ‘drumstick tree' is another name for it. It's primarily found in Asia, Africa, and South America.
Moringa Leaves – High in Nutrients
Moringa leaves are nutrient-dense, outperforming carrots, oranges, and even milk in terms of nutritional content. Because the leaves are adaptable and may be incorporated into the diet in a variety of ways, they are often used in Indian cuisine.
The most typical methods of consumption are adding them to juices and using them as stir-fry vegetables. Moringa leaves have no adverse effects when taken in their natural state. Continue reading to learn more about moringa leaves' health advantages.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, and Folate are all abundant in Moringa leaves. Magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc are all abundant in these vegetables.
One cup of moringa leaves contains 2 grams of protein, 8 grams of magnesium, 19 grams of vitamin B6, 11 grams of iron, 11 grams of riboflavin, and 11 grams of vitamin A. (9 percent of the RDA).
- Rich in Amino Acids
Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are abundant in Moringa leaves. They include 18 different types of amino acids, each of which contributes to our overall health.
- Fight Inflammation
The body's natural response to pain and injury is inflammation. The presence of isothiocyanates in moringa leaves makes them anti-inflammatory.
They have niazimicin, which is known to stop cancer cells from growing. Many diseases, including cancer, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune diseases, are caused by inflammation. When we are injured or infected, our bodies experience heightened inflammation.
Inflammation is a protective mechanism against trauma, but it can increase in the body as a result of a poor lifestyle and poor food. Chronic health problems are caused by long-term inflammation. Inflammation can be reduced by eating moringa leaves.
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- Rich in Antioxidants
Moringa leaves have anti-oxidant characteristics, which protect them from the harmful effects of free radicals in the environment. Many chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer's, are caused by free radical damage.
Moringa leaves are high in vitamin C and beta-carotene, both of which are anti-oxidants.
They also include Quercetin, an antioxidant that aids in blood pressure reduction. Chlorogenic acid, another antioxidant found in moringa leaves, helps to maintain blood sugar levels after meals.
Taking 1.5 tablespoons of moringa leaf powder on a regular basis for three months resulted in a considerable boost in blood antioxidant levels in women, according to a study.
- Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Individuals who have persistently high blood sugar levels develop diabetes. Diabetes, in turn, can harm the heart and other organs in the body.
To avoid this, it is important to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. Moringa leaves are ideal for this because they contain isothiocyanates, which help to balance blood sugar levels.
- Lowers Cholesterol
Moringa leaves, in addition to oats, flaxseeds, and almonds, are a reliable cure for excessive cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a key cause of heart disease, and eating moringa leaves has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
Moringa oleifera has been shown to lower these levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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- Protects the Liver
Moringa leaves can help people with tuberculosis because they lessen the side effects of anti-tubercular medications.
The leaves hasten the regeneration of liver cells. The leaves contain a significant amount of polyphenols, which protect the liver from oxidative damage and may even lessen it. They raise the amount of protein in the liver.
The liver is responsible for blood cleansing, fat metabolism, and food absorption, and it can only do so if the liver enzymes are within normal limits. Moringa leaves help to keep certain liver enzymes in check.
Moringa health benefits
- Protects Against Arsenic Toxicity
Arsenic pollution is an issue in many places of the world. Many foods, particularly rice, contain arsenic, which has made its way into our bodies.
Long-term exposure to this element has been linked to cancer and heart problems in humans. Moringa leaves have been found to reduce the effects of arsenic toxicity in lab animals.
- Good for the Stomach
Moringa leaves have been shown to help with stomach issues. Moringa leaves should be added to the diet of those who suffer from constipation, bloating, gas, gastritis, and ulcerative colitis.
The leaves contain antibacterial and antiseptic qualities, making them an excellent treatment for digestive problems. Even the high concentration of B vitamins in the leaves aids digestion.
- Improves Bone Health
Calcium and phosphorus are abundant in Moringa leaves. Good bone health necessitates both of these factors.
Because moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory, they can aid with arthritis and may even repair broken bones.
Moringa oleifera also helps to prevent osteoporosis and maintain bone and tooth health.
- An Antiseptic
Moringa leaves are antiseptic and can be used to treat a variety of bacterial illnesses. They're also good for wound healing, as they speed up the healing of bruises, minor wounds, and burns by reducing clotting time.
- Improve Lactation
Moringa leaves were traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help nursing women produce more milk.
Moringa leaves are high in protein, key vitamins, and necessary elements, making them beneficial to both the mother and the baby's health.
- Helps in Weight Management
Moringa leaves to boost the body's fat-burning capabilities. They help people lose weight without draining their energy reserves.
This keeps the person feeling energized and well-fed. They increase metabolism and lessen food cravings. They also help to decrease cholesterol levels.
- Good for Skin and Hair
Moringa leaves are high in antioxidants and minerals, which help to improve skin and hair health and appearance.
They give the skin suppleness and the hair gloss. Moringa leaves contain antioxidants that help to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin.
They contain around 30 antioxidants. Not only that, but a paste made from moringa leaves applied to the scalp and hair reduces dandruff and gives dull, lifeless hair a new lease on life. Hair follicles are also strengthened by the leaves.
They're also beneficial to acne-prone skin. Moringa leaves are used in several cosmetics because of this. Because of their cleansing and healing properties, they improve skin tone and impart radiance.
Read More: Home Remedies for Glowing Skin
- Good for Nervous System
Moringa leaves have been shown to be effective in the treatment of a variety of neurological illnesses. They act as neuro-enhancers and promote brain health.
Vitamins E and C, in particular, have a high concentration, which helps to prevent neuronal degeneration and promote brain function.
Those who suffer from migraines or recurrent headaches should consume moringa leaves on a daily basis.
These leaves also act as mood stabilizers by stabilizing the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, which are necessary for memory, mood, and stimulus-response.
- Good for Detoxification
Moringa leaves are natural cleansers that aid in the detoxification of the body. This keeps the body healthy and boosts immunity to many infections. They also increase the body's energy levels.
- Potential Downsides
It's possible that Moringa and its leaves aren't for everyone. While most people believe it to be safe and healthy, there are a few small negative effects to be aware of. Moringa leaves, bark, roots, and fruit may have laxative qualities in excessive doses.
Moringa's roots, bark, and extract may trigger uterine contractions in pregnant women. Before including Moringa leaves or products into their diets, pregnant women should seek medical guidance.
Similarly, breastfeeding mothers should avoid Moringa leaves because it is unknown if any of the toxins or compounds found in them pass via the milk to the infant.
Moringa leaf powder has been reported to have greater than the recommended tolerable levels of lead in some circumstances; please only use extracts from trustworthy companies.
Finally, persons who are taking blood thinners should avoid Moringa unless they visit their doctor beforehand. It can be safe for most individuals when used in moderation, as with everything, so use it with caution.
Conclusion
Moringa leaves are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. They've been dubbed a new "superfood" because of their antioxidative qualities and cellular-health-protective properties.
They reduce sugar levels while suppressing inflammatory enzyme synthesis. Make sure to include these in your diet on a regular basis to get the many health advantages.