Benefits of Moringa

Science-Based Health Benefits of Moringa oleifera

1) Clearer, more youthful looking skin

Moringa is rich in antioxidants and Omega 3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation, contribute to healthy cell production and regeneration. They help your skin retain its suppleness, helping to prevent lines and wrinkles while also boosting your immune system.

2) Healthier hair, scalp, and nails

Because Moringa contains all the essential amino acids, you will notice that dry, brittle hair and nails are a thing of the past after incorporating it into your diet. Vitamins C and E also help facilitate blood circulation in the scalp which is essential to the absorption of nutrients in the follicles.

3) Increased energy

A single serving of Moringa contains about 3x the iron of spinach. Iron is essential to enriching the blood, carrying life, energy and oxygen into our muscles, organs and tissues. Move over sugary, high caffeine "energy" drinks, Moringa tea is here supporting health and vitality – without the CRASH!

4) Clear vision and eye health

High in beta carotene and vitamin A, moringa supports healthy eyes and clear vision.

5) Regular, healthy bowel movements

Moringa oils and fiber have a detoxifying effect to help scrub your bowel of waste and toxins allowing you to fully absorb nutrients from the foods you eat. Beauty is found in detoxification, a key player in the strength of your body and the resilience of your skin. You can find out more about beauty foods in my book, The Beauty Detox Solution.

6) Seeds can be pressed to extract a highly versatile oil

Moringa oil, better known as "Ben" oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids and healthy saturated fats. It is wonderful for use in frying and sautéing due to its high smoke point, and it's also great for use in things like salad dressings. Bonus: this oil won't ever go rancid!

7) Highly moisturizing for the skin, hair and nails

Valued for its rejuvenating, repairing, softening and beautifying effects, Ben oil has been used for centuries in lotions, soaps, conditioners, cosmetics and as a base for perfumes.

8) Health promoting

Oil contains flavonoids, important antioxidants that protect our bodies and blood vessels, while lowering inflammation. It also provides us with high levels of health promoting sterols which act to lower cholesterol as well as blood glucose levels.

9) Biofuel!

It is an economical and ecologically responsible alternative to traditional crops which are being used as fuel because it can grow on marginal land, and doesn't require much maintenance, fertilizer or pest control.

10) Healthy snack

The seeds are great when eaten raw, or they can be toasted and eaten for a healthy snack. *Be careful not to overdo (even healthy fats should be consumed in moderation), because even though they are yummy and satisfying, they do have a natural laxative/mild diuretic effect. Remember, a little goes a long way :)

11) Water purification

When crushed, the seeds act as a natural binder, causing fine particles, salts, bacteria, and other impurities in river or lake water to clump together for easy removal, an important step in the process of readying water for sanitary drinking.

Moringa oleifera Is Very Nutritious

The nutritional bounty of this tree is truly astounding, as it offers high concentrations of essential vitamins, like C and A, and a bounty of antioxidants, amino acids and healthy fats, depending on which part of the tree is being consumed.

Moringa leaves are rich in many important nutrients, including protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, riboflavin and iron.

Moringa oleifera is rich in various antioxidants, including quercetin and chlorogenic acid. Moringa leaf powder can increase blood antioxidant levels.

Moringa leaves may lead to reduced blood sugar levels, but more research is needed before any solid recommendations can be made.

Moringa oleiferacan lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which should lead to reduced risk of heart disease.

The moringa leaves are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. One cup of fresh, chopped leaves (21 grams) contains the following.

  • Protein: 2 grams
  • Vitamin B6: 19% of the RDA
  • Vitamin C: 12% of the RDA
  • Iron: 11% of the RDA
  • Riboflavin (B2): 11% of the RDA
  • Vitamin A (from beta-carotene): 9% of the RDA
  • Magnesium: 8% of the RDA

*Per 100 grams, the leaves alone have nearly as much vitamin C as a navel orange, and the pods have almost 3x that!