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Moringa is a big shot in the superfood world, packed with health-boosting antioxidants and a plethora of other health benefits. If you want to add another nutrient-rich superfood to your diet, look no further than moringa.

Moringa: From cattle feed to superfood

Moringa was first used in North Africa, where it was used as cattle feed and as a culinary ingredient. Native to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, the plant contributed to the health of individuals through many of its various parts, including its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit and bark.

Although it originates in the southern regions surrounding the Himalayan Mountains, this plant also grows well in tropical regions around the globe.

Combating malnutrition with moringa

As a food product, moringa is exceptionally valuable. In fact, Trees for Life, an international charitable organization, has promoted the use of moringa to address malnutrition.

Moringa leaves are brimming with vitamins A, B2, B6 and C, along with calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and protein. This makes moringa the perfect resource for people who are facing food insecurity – as well as those who have access to food but want to improve their nutrition.

Consume moringa to boost your overall health

Further research is necessary to solidify the health benefits that moringa offers; however, this superfood is said to impact health in a major way.

Some of the concerns that moringa may improve include:

• Anemia
• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Constipation
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• Diarrhea
• Gastritis
• Gingivitis
• Headaches
• Heart conditions
• High blood pressure
• Inflammation
• Intestinal ulcers
• Kidney stones
• Thyroid disorders
• Infections
• Sex drive
• Stomach ulcers

Moringa can also boost your immune system and improve breast milk production in pregnant women.

An antioxidant-rich superfood

Antioxidants are compounds that fight free radicals in your body. When your body is exposed to high levels of free radicals that cause oxidative stress, you are at risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

Studies have found that moringa leaves contain beta-carotene and vitamin C that are essential for your well-being, together with antioxidant plant compounds.

Moringa also contains:

• Chlorogenic acid, a compound also present in green coffee. Chlorogenic acid helps moderate blood sugar levels after meals.
• Quercetin, a potent powerful antioxidant that lowers blood pressure.

Data from a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology showed that women who consumed 1.5 teaspoons (7 g) of moringa leaf powder every day for three months “significantly increased blood antioxidant levels.”

Considerations before consuming moringa

Before adding a new supplement to your diet, check for any side effects that may be associated with it.

The leaves, seeds, and fruit of moringa are considered safe when ingested as part of a well-rounded diet; however, the root should be avoided. The root of the moringa plant, as well as its extracts, may introduce a toxic substance to the human body. This can result in paralysis and may even be fatal, depending upon the circumstances.

It is also important to note that women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding should not eat moringa or any of its extracts. This plant contains certain chemicals that, when ingested, can induce contractions.

In women who are with child, these contractions can lead to miscarriage. The research conducted on women who are breastfeeding and the consumption of moringa is so sparse that it is best for expectant mothers to avoid the food altogether to prevent unforeseen side effects in both them and their children.

Incorporating moringa into your diet

Ultimately, moringa may be a wonderful addition to your current dietary routine. You can purchase dietary supplements made from dried moringa leaves in either capsule or powder form at health food stores.

Sources include:

MNN.com

TreesForLife.org

Healthline.com