Do you want to know what the health benefits of moringa tea are? Could this be the new matcha? Does it have what it takes to compete with turmeric in terms of inflammation-fighting properties? Continue reading to learn why you might be tempted to add a pinch of moringa powder to your morning smoothie.
What exactly is moringa?
Moringa is known by many different names. It's also known as a drumstick tree, a horseradish tree, and a ben oil tree. Moringa oleifera is its full name, but it is most referred to as 'moringa.'
Moringa is a plant native to Northern India. Although most of the plant is edible, the leaves are thought to be the most nutritious. Moringa is commonly found in powdered form or as an ingredient in supplements. Moringa tea and dried (or fresh) moringa leaves are also available at some health food stores. Moringa oil is another option.
The advantages of Moringa leaves
The moringa leaf contains the highest concentration of vitamins and minerals of any tree part. These leaves are typically crushed to make a powder that can be added to smoothies, sprinkled on energy bars, or drank as moringa tea. The dried leaves are also available in powder or capsule form as dietary supplements.
The advantages of Moringa seeds
Because the seeds lack the same nutrient density as the leaves, they do not provide the full range of moringa benefits. However, the advantages of moringa seeds should not be overlooked.
The seeds have a high oil content that can be extracted and used in a variety of ways. For example, as a cooking oil, it contains monounsaturated fat (a heart-healthy type), protein, and a variety of other nutritional compounds. As an essential oil, it is frequently used as a nourishing ingredient in hair and skincare products.
- Moringa oleifera is known as one of the most nutrient-rich plants.
- Technically, all parts of this tree are edible, but the leaves provide the most potent moringa benefits.
- The leaves are frequently crushed to make a powder or dried to make moringa tea.
- The seeds can also be extracted to make a nourishing oil.
What are the advantages of moringa?
To begin with, did you know it contains seven times more vitamin C than oranges?
1 This is just one of the plant's impressive nutrient properties. Moringa is frequently referred to as the world's most useful tree, and it's easy to see why.
Moringa contains:
- Vitamins A, B, C, D, and E
- Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and copper
- Folic acid, pyridoxine, and nicotinic acid
This diverse catalogue of moringa nutrients is responsible for the moringa plant's wide range of health benefits, which range from immune support to skin radiance.
Moringa’s 11 health benefits
What is the purpose of moringa tea? And can a scoop of moringa powder really improve your health? More research is needed to determine exactly how this plant can benefit human health and wellbeing – much of the current evidence is based on animal studies or is anecdotal.
However, the following 11 moringa health benefits are good indicators of this plant's wellness potential.
- A good source of vitamins and minerals
Many superfoods stand out due to their high concentration of a single hero nutrient. Moringa does not fall into this category.
It contains ten times more vitamin C than carrots, seventeen times more calcium than milk, nine times more protein than yoghurt, fifteen times more potassium than bananas, and twenty-five times more iron than spinach.
- Antioxidant capacity
Moringa, like many other superfoods, contains a high concentration of antioxidants.
In fact, one study found that participants who consumed 1.5 teaspoons of moringa powder every day for three months had significantly higher antioxidant levels in their blood.
A diet high in antioxidants helps to protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Convenient plant-based protein source
Moringa is an excellent source of plant-based protein if you are vegetarian, vegan, or simply trying to eat less meat.
And, unlike other non-meat protein sources (such as lentils), it does not require cooking or preparation.
- Hormone balancing influence
Moringa, like other dark leafy greens, can help the endocrine system by regulating hormones.
A 2014 study, for example, suggested that the antioxidant properties of moringa (when combined with amaranth) could help to prevent complications caused by hormonal changes in postmenopausal women.
- May help reduce the impact of inflammation
The moringa fruit contains anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in the reduction of chronic inflammation. Although these anti-inflammation claims have yet to be tested in humans, animal and test tube studies indicate promising results.
Content chosen with care: An overview of natural anti-inflammatory sources
- Assistance in lowering cholesterol
Moringa may help to maintain healthy cardiovascular function by lowering cholesterol levels. A 2007 rabbit study, for example, found that moringa helped lower cholesterol.
- Blood sugar control
Raised blood sugar levels pose numerous health risks. According to research, the plant compounds in moringa may help to balance blood sugar levels.
- Liver function
Moringa polyphenols may be useful in reversing oxidation in the liver.
Moringa has been shown in animal studies to have a positive impact on the recovery from liver damage.
- A beneficial effect on gut health and digestion
With fibre accounting for just over 30% of moringa's nutritional make-up, it's no surprise that it's frequently consumed to aid digestion.
Research also suggests that it may help reduce gut disorders like colitis.
- Possibility of moringa weight loss benefits
Can moringa powder aid in weight loss? Animal studies indicate that it can aid in the breakdown of fats and the reduction of fat accumulation. 14 However, whether these moringa weight loss effects translate to humans has yet to be studied scientifically.
- Moringa has numerous skin benefits.
Moringa has a high concentration of three skin-nourishing ingredients. Vitamin A promotes collagen regeneration. Vitamin C promotes radiance and combats the signs of ageing. And vitamin E provides moisture as well as skin-clearing antioxidants.
SUMMARY
Moringa contains a high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. In addition to addressing nutritional deficiencies, it provides a variety of wellness benefits, such as supporting healthy heart function, regulating blood sugar, and balancing hormones.
Moringa can be used in a variety of ways
Moringa has a mild, slightly bitter flavour that goes well with both sweet and savoury dishes.
If you want to try out moringa's health benefits for yourself, the most common form of the plant is powder. However, you may be wondering how to use moringa powder. And did you know that dried moringa leaves are also an excellent source of moringa health benefits?
Moringa in 9 ways
- Added to salads or soups
- Added to smoothies (it works well in green juices)
- As an ingredient in sauces or soups
- Added to water as a caffeine-free coffee substitute
- In brownies, energy balls, cookies, cakes, or bread
- Add it to guacamole or hummus.
- Mix into salad dressings
- Keep an eye out for moringa-infused teas.
- Attempt these moringaroons.
SUMMARY
Moringa is simple to incorporate into your diet or daily routine. It is most commonly found as a powder or as dried leaves that can be used to make moringa tea. Moringa powder benefits can be obtained by adding it to recipes.
Moringa side-effects
It is generally well tolerated. However, there are known drug interactions and some situations in which it is not advised.
- Some people believe moringa can cause uterine contractions, so avoid it if you're pregnant.
- Not recommended for breastfeeding mothers because the effects on the nursing infant are unknown.
- It may not be suitable for diabetics due to its effects on blood sugar.
- Because moringa may lower blood pressure, it may cause fainting and dizziness if you already have low blood pressure.
- Because the flavour isn't for everyone, you may want to use it sparingly.
- There are concerns that it will aggravate an underactive thyroid.
- You should also avoid it if you are on thyroid medication.
- Moringa may alter how the liver breaks down certain medications, so seek medical advice if this applies to you.
- Because the roots contain spirochin, a toxic substance, avoid eating them.
SUMMARY
Moringa can be consumed safely by the majority of people. In some cases, you should take precautions to avoid unfavourable moringa powder side effects. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns and discontinue use of moringa if you experience any negative side-effects.
Dosage of Moringa
You don't need to consume much moringa powder to reap its benefits. For precise instructions, refer to the product's instructions. However, half a teaspoon per day is a good place to start.
How much moringa is considered safe to consume?
There is no exact scientific recommendation, and the amount that is appropriate for you will depend on your individual tolerance. However, product information for one of our most popular moringa powders suggests gradually increasing your intake to 2-4 teaspoons maximum daily.
Is it safe to take moringa on a daily basis?
Yes. However, stick to the recommended dosage for your product.
When should you take moringa supplements?
You might like it in your morning smoothie. Or maybe sprinkled over a salad for lunch. It all depends on how you prefer to consume moringa and how it fits into your daily routine.
The top ten moringa supplements
Moringa can be added to your diet in a variety of ways.
- tinctures or extracts
- Moringa leaf powder
- Moringa oil suitable for cooking
- Moringa leaf
- Moringa leaves
- Ready-to-drink beverages
- Moringa capsules
- Hand and face lotions
- Moringa tea
- Moringa seed oil for the skin
In Conclusion
For centuries, the plant's oils and extracts have been used in herbal medicine. However, moringa health benefits are gaining popularity among nutritionists and wellness enthusiasts. As a result, it's become a popular nutritional supplement that comes in a variety of forms, including moringa powder and moringa tea.
