Moringa - The Super Food

Written by Della Rodriquez

We have come a long way in understanding the benefits of certain herbs, plants, and spices. All the nutrients, vitamins, and hormones we need can be found in just one capsule or meal and some of the benefits are remarkable. When it comes to one super food in particular, Moringa, there is certainly no shortage of benefits especially for a new mother who needs the extra boost.

Where Does Moringa Come From?

Native to the Himalayas, the Moringa oleifera, or Drumstick tree, can be found in most subtropical and tropical areas. This tree grows rapidly and is harvested for numerous purposes. The leaves, flowers and pods are usually eaten as a vegetable on its own or in a salad. The kernels or seeds of this plant are also edible and often times oil is derived from the seeds and used in most cosmetics and supplements. Another interesting fact is that the oil of this plant can be used to purify toxins from polluted water making it safer for humans and animals to ingest.

Why Is It A Super Food?

By definition, a super food is exceptionally high in nutritional value, which can benefit your health. This sums up the Drumstick tree perfectly. Not only are the benefits vast (we will get into this later) but the nutritional value certainly puts this plant at the top of the food chain, and here is why:

• Protein 27.1 g
• Calcium 2003 mg
• Magnesium 368 mg
• Potassium 1324 mg
• Iron 28.2 mg
• Zinc 3.29 mg
• Vitamin A 16.3 mg
• Vitamin B1 2.6 mg
• Vitamin B2 20.5 mg
• Vitamin B3 8.2 mg
• Vitamin C 17.3 mg
• Vitamin E 113.0 mg

To put these figures in to perspective, the Moringa plant contains 10 times more vitamin A than carrots, 6 times more vitamin C than oranges, 17 times more calcium than what you would get from cow's milk, 4 times more protein than what you would get from yogurt and 15 times more potassium than bananas.

Bottom Line:

We have come a very long way in understanding the nutritional value and benefits of many foods, herbs and spices, however, the super food known as Moringa is becoming increasingly popular because of its exceptionally high nutritional content. Native to the Himalayas, this plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is harvested for an array of uses. The pods, leaves, flowers, and seeds are edible and commonly used in many cosmetics and natural medicines.

How Is Moringa Used?

Depending on how you feel about the taste (the leaves can have a potent taste if eaten by itself), the plant comes in many convenient forms.

Generally, most people opt for the powder form as it is extremely versatile when it comes to meals. Taking capsules daily is another convenient way in which to get your power pack of nutrients in order to boost your health. You can also find it in the form of tea which can be spiced up with fresh ginger, lemon or honey.

Fresh Or Dried Leaves

As we just mentioned, this may not be for everyone because of the taste but for those who enjoy it, the leaves can be used in a variety of dishes.

Here are a few tips on how to incorporate the leaves into regular meals you enjoy:

• Whether it be a green, chicken or summer salad, add a few fresh leaves of Moringa into the mixture.
• Add the leaves to your favorite sauce, soup or stew. Make sure you add the leaves a few minutes before you take the dish off the stove too prevent the leaves from overcooking and losing their nutrients.
• Use the dried leaves to garnish any dish as you would with parsley or basil. Sprinkling a few leaves over a homemade pizza is also a great alternative to your regular oregano or basil seasoning.

Powder

The powder can be used in so many dishes and beverages. The trick is to start with smaller doses which are increased over time.

You can add the Moringa powder to just about anything such as:

• Smoothies
• Soups
• Stews
• Curries
• Yogurt
• Fruit juice

Bottom Line:

You can find various forms of this super food ranging from powders, teas and supplements. Taking the capsule form supplements may be the most convenient, however, the powder or fresh and dried leaves can be incorporated into a variety of delicious dishes and salads.

What Are The Benefits?

Now for the good part, the benefits! Since this is such a nutrient dense plant, there is no shortage of minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and amino acids when it comes to Moringa. The benefits are vast and any mother who is always on the go can certainly use the extra boost.

These are just a few of the amazing wonders you can expect to get:

Younger Supple Skin

Some search far and wide for the fountain of youth but the secret lies in the Drumstick tree. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce breakouts, acne, fungal infections and abscesses. It also helps to hydrate skin which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Another interesting fact is that it is a natural astringent which means that it helps skin cells and tissue to contract.

Increased Lactation

For all new mothers, this certainly comes in handy. The Drumstick tree, adequately dubbed the tree of life, increases the production of breast milk post-birth. By adding a few leaves or spoonfuls of powder to your meals, your breast milk will contain the same minerals that you have ingested which means that your baby is getting the healthiest dose of vitamins and minerals from your milk.

Improved Mood

The baby blues can kick in at any time so it's important that you take the necessary steps to help get you back on your feet. Moringa can help to improve your mood as it affects neurotransmitter functions by increasing the production of serotonin which helps to fight off depression. The antioxidant properties also help to improve thyroid function, meaning that you will feel more energized and experience fewer mood swings

Other Benefits

• Aids in weight loss
• Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disorders
• Protects the liver
• Helps skin cells and tissues to repair quicker
• Fights off free radical damage caused by harmful molecules
• Reduces inflammation

Our Ultimate Take Home Message

There are so many ways to use this versatile plant and there is certainly no shortage of benefits or nutrients. It is safe to use and widely available in most stores and online platforms. The bonus is that when you start using Moringa, you will start to reap the benefits rapidly - you will feel more energized, your milk will be jam-packed with nutrients and your skin will be revived. All the vitamins, minerals and nutrients you need are hiding in one tree!

Researched and written by experts, brought to you by our team at Mommy Authority.