Moringa

 Moringa 

The Incredible Benefits Of Having Fresh Moringa Leaves Daily

The benefits of moringa were recognized long ago when used in Ayurveda medicine over 4,000 years ago.”

Moringa oleifera is a tropical or subtropical plant belonging to a diverse genus native to Northern India, Africa, and southern Asia. It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree of the family Moringaceae. The common names of moringa include drumstick tree, (from the long, slender, triangular seed pods), horseradish tree (from the taste of the roots, which resembles horseradish), or malunggay (as known in maritime or archipelagic areas in Asia).

Moringa is widely cultivated for its young seed pods and leaves, used as vegetables, and for traditional herbal medicine. It is also used for water purification.

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as drumstick tree, offers numerous health benefits. Nutrient-dense leaves, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, help reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, lower blood pressure, improve liver health, cholesterol levels, and cognitive functions, and may promote healthy aging, energy levels, and sexual drive.

Has anti-aging properties: According to research, moringa is packed with antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which may combat premature wrinkles and keep your skin looking youthful when it's applied topically. As per Jones, “Its compounds have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and its anti-aging benefits on skincare are promising but additional research is needed.”

Rich source of antioxidants: Antioxidant compounds, including nutrients and phytochemicals, help protect cells from the damage incurred by molecules called free radicals. The body produces these when exposed to environmental toxins like pesticides and cigarette smoke. Moringa, which is especially its leaves, is rich in several beneficial compounds which provide antioxidant protection. These include vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as polyphenols, such as quercetin, rutin, and chlorogenic acid.

Helps with blood sugar: This drumstick plant might help in keeping your blood sugars stable for the better. As per Smith, “Moringa is believed to aid in blood sugar balance thanks to its chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates.” Chlorogenic acid can potentially control blood sugar levels by regulating the cells' uptake or release of glucose (sugar) following a meal. As per Smith, “studies have supported the use of moringa to aid in blood sugar balance with positive effects on fasting blood sugar levels, insulin levels, HbA1c and overall blood glucose control in those that consume moringa powder." An interesting study looking at the effects of the leaf powder on postmenopausal woman showed that taking 1½ teaspoons of moringa leaf powder every day for three months reduced fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 13.5%. This suggests that moringa may be helpful in addressing some of the physiological changes experienced by women in midlife.

Reduces blood pressure: Research suggests that adding moringa to your diet regularly might make a difference in case of reducing blood pressure, especially when your routine includes exercise and a nutrient-rich diet. Moringa powder has anti-hypertensive properties because it contains quercetin. As per Curtis, “This antioxidant decreases oxidative stress on the heart and helps to stabilize blood pressure management systems in the body.”

The nutritional benefits: As per Lisa Curtis, Founder and CEO of Kuli Kuli Foods, moringa leaves are one of the most nutrient-dense greens on the planet, packed with protein, essential amino acids, 27 vitamins, and 46 antioxidants; which includes key nutrients like calcium, iron, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium and vitamin C. According to research, moringa is rich in macro- and micronutrients and other bioactive compounds, which are important for the normal functioning of the body and the prevention of many diseases.

The inflammatory qualities: Inflammation is a natural response from the body to injury or infection. It's a vital part of the body's defense system that helps to heal damaged tissue and fight off infection. As per Smith, moringa contains inflammation-fighting nutrients including phytonutrients, antioxidants, and antibacterial compounds. Together, these powerful compounds fight inflammation in the body by targeting free radicals (compounds that damage cells) and as a result reduce oxidative stress, and inflammation and fight disease.

Rich source of antioxidants: Antioxidant compounds, including nutrients and phytochemicals, help protect cells from the damage incurred by molecules called free radicals. The body produces these when exposed to environmental toxins like pesticides and cigarette smoke. Moringa, which is especially its leaves, is rich in several beneficial compounds which provide antioxidant protection. These include vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as polyphenols, such as quercetin, rutin, and chlorogenic acid.