8 Surprising Health Benefits of Moringa Oleifera: A Superfood for Your Well-being

Moringa (Moringa oleifera) has gained popularity in recent years as an energy supplement, but there is much more that this vibrant green herb has to offer. A herbal superfood, moringa possesses tremendous nutritious content and supports the body's overall vitality, immunity, and well-being. Known as a powerhouse of nutrients, Moringa in Ayurveda is revered for its deep cleansing and detoxifying effects. This ancient herbal remedy, often called "the drumstick tree," has been utilized for centuries to promote health and balance within the body.

Characteristics of the Moringa Plant

Moringa oleifera is perhaps the best-known and most widely sought-after member of the genus Moringa, from the flowering plant family Moringaceae. Found primarily in India and throughout the sub-tropics, it is a drought-resistant, perennial tree that can quickly grow in a variety of climates and conditions.

Moringa is sometimes called "the drumstick tree" for its long pods that resemble drumsticks. The name derives from the Tamil word “murungai,” which means “drumstick.”

Another name for moringa is “the horseradish tree,” which caught on after the plant was first introduced to English consumers, who used the pungent-tasting root as a substitute for horseradish sauce. The name “oleifera” is a reference to its oil-producing seeds.

Throughout history, people have used just about every part of the moringa tree for their various needs. Like most trees, it has been harvested for timber, but because its wood is relatively soft and light, it isn't regularly sought after for this purpose. Far more coveted are its seeds, which are used for water filtration and purification, and its bark, which produces fibre commonly used in textiles and to make ropes, mats, and blue dye.

Other parts of the moringa tree are frequently used to make teas and powders. It is said that any part of the moringa plant can be consumed, and its leaves, seeds, and fruits, in particular, are often consumed for their numerous health benefits

Moringa's benefits extend beyond promoting natural beauty, a sharp mind, and vibrant energy, and many of its benefits can be at least partially attributed to its impressive nutritional content. Sometimes called a "powerhouse" of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, moringa can benefit those malnourished.

Moringa in Ayurveda

From an Ayurvedic perspective, moringa is considered heating and pungent. It has a heating virya (action) and a pungent, bitter rasa (taste), with a pungent vipaka (post-digestive effect).

As mentioned previously, moringa has deep cleansing and detoxifying effects. In Bhava Prakash, a historical Ayurvedic text, moringa is called “sigru,” which translates to “moves like an arrow.” This is about moringa's ability to quickly penetrate the dhatus (tissue layers of the body) for deep cleansing. It has a particular affinity for rakta dhatu (blood) and meda dhatu (fat).  

Its bitter, pungent nature makes moringa excellent for balancing kapha and vata dosha, though it may increase vata in excess due to its bitter taste. Its heating qualities may aggravate pitta

Specifications:

शिग्रुवल्कलपत्राणां स्वरसाः परमार्तिहृत् । (भावप्रकाश)

Juice of moringa leaves and bark act as natural analgesic  (Useful in relieving pain) - oral intake as well as external application.

शिगुः कटुः कटुः पाके तीक्ष्णोष्णो मधुरो लघुः । दीपनो रोचनो रूक्षः क्षारस्तिक्तो विदाहकृत् ॥ संग्राही शुक्रलो हृद्यः पित्तरक्तप्रकोपणः । चक्षुष्यः कफवातघ्नो विद्रधिश्वयथु क्रिमीन् ॥ मेदो अपची विष प्लीह गुल्म गण्डव्रणान् हरेत् । प्लीहानां विद्रधिं हन्ति व्रणघ्नः पित्तरक्तकृत् ।

Krishna Shigru (Black variety of Moringa) possess the following qualitiesKatu - pungent,
Teekshna - piercing, sharp, strong
Ushna - hot in potency
Madhura - slightly sweetish
Laghu - light to digest
Deepana- improves digestion
Rochana- Improves taste
Rooksha - dry
Kshara- Has alkaline properties
Tikta -Bitter
Vidaahakrit -causes a burning sensation
Sangrahi - Useful to stop diarrhoea
Shukrala- Improves semen quantity and sperm count
Hrudya - Cardiac tonic
Pittarakta prakopana: Increases Pitta and vitiates blood. Thus it shouldn't be consumed during bleeding disorders, menstruation and pitta prakriti person  Chakshushya - good for eyes
Kapha vata ghna - destroyer of diseases caused due to Kapha and Vata dosha imbalance 
Vidradhi -  helps in quick wound healing of abscess (can be oral intake and external application as a paste.)
Shvayathu - anti-inflammatory property 
Krimi - useful in both internal and external worm infestation 
Meda - helpful in decreasing fat and obesity.
Apachi - Useful in relieving carbuncles.
Visha nashanam - detoxifying action.
Pleeha - spleen disorders 
Gulma - abdominal bloating and tumours
Ganda Vrana - lymphadenitis

How to Use Moringa Powder

Moringa is extremely versatile, not only for its nutritional properties but also in the variety of ways it can be taken to support your health. Here are a few ideas to get started:
 
Traditional Methods. For an easy traditional method, take ¼ to ½ teaspoon Moringa powder with warm water, once or twice daily. If you're wondering,  you should take moringa in the morning or at night, simply find the time that works best for you. Moringa can be taken at any time of day, with or without food.
 
Take the powder with a teaspoon of ghee for overall nutrition or with honey to boost metabolism.
 
Mix it with warm milk and honey to help balance vata.
 
To offset the heating quality, take a spoonful of aloe vera.
Make a Lemon Moringa Latte. As a caffeine alternative, try making a lemon moringa latte with moringa powder. This revitalizing tonic is the perfect morning drink or afternoon pick-me-up.

Directions:
Heat the water till hot, and stir in the moringa powder until it dissolves. Blend in lemon juice, honey, and vanilla. Add warm almond milk and stir with a spoon to mix, or use a milk frother, whisk, or blender to increase creaminess and foam. Top with a pinch of bee pollen.

This latte can be enjoyed by all three doshas, though the properties of moringa are most equipped to balance kapha dosha. To enhance the vata pacifying qualities, add a tiny pinch of salt. For a more tropical, pitta-pacifying version, substitute the almond milk with coconut milk, and use maple syrup instead of honey. 

 
Add to Food:
Experiment with sprinkling moringa powder in smoothies, nutritional shakes, or on top of your oatmeal.

Take it with other superfoods. Moringa is a key ingredient in Elevated Adaptogens, a powdered blend of renowned adaptogens and superfoods, including ashwagandha and amalaki. Try mixing it into your meals or boosting your beverages.

Topically, as a seed oil. When used topically, the oil from the moringa seed offers significant benefits to the skin. As a natural source of oleic acid, it helps fight free radical damage and supports the repair of aged skin.

8 Health Benefits of Moringa 

1.  High Nutritional Profile of Moringa Oleifera as compared to other Superfoods

• Vitamins: A, B6, C, and E
• Minerals: Calcium, potassium, and iron
• Antioxidants: Quercetin and chlorogenic acid

• 25 times the iron of spinach
• 17 times the calcium of milk
• 15 times the potassium of bananas
• 10 times the vitamins of carrots
• 7 times the vitamin C of oranges
• 9 times the protein of yoghurt
• 4 times the fibre of oats

2. Boosts Immune System

The rich blend of vitamins and antioxidants in moringa powder helps strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C and E, along with antioxidants like quercetin, combat free radicals and support the body's natural defences. Studies have shown that regular consumption of moringa powder can enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.

3. Moringa for weight loss and cholesterol:

Moringa helps to control high cholesterol and obesity. High cholesterol and Fat are due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes bad cholesterol and Fat (Meda) accumulation and blockage in the blood vessels. Moringa helps to improve Agni (digestive fire) and reduce Ama. This is due to its Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Thus Moringa helps to remove accumulated bad cholesterol and Meda - Fat to maintain normal levels.

How to use for weight loss:

1- Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Moringa powder and keep it under your tongue.
Swallow it down with the help of half a glass of water.
2 - Moringa tea
Take 1/2 teaspoon of moringa powder and add it to 1 glass of water. Stir it and keep it aside for 5 minutes to settle. Strain it down and add 2 to 3 drops of lemon juice and honey. Do not make in hot water, as it will destroy its antioxidant property.
3 - Add 1/2 teaspoon moringa powder to buttermilk (not sour) and consume it post-lunch and dinner.

4. Enhances Skin Health

Moringa helps to control acne when applied to the skin. It reduces inflammation and accelerates quick healing due to its Ropan (healing) properties.

5. Moringa for hair fall:

According to Ayurveda hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha. Moringa oil acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha.
Best to consult your Ayurveda Physician.

6. Supports Digestive Health and Cognitive Function

Being spicy and hot it stimulates taste buds, carminative, absorbent, anthelmintic and analgesic. Moringa also enhances Mental Clarity and Mood

Moringa powder supports cognitive function and emotional well-being. Its rich content of vitamins and antioxidants helps reduce oxidative stress in the brain, improving mental clarity and focus. Furthermore, moringa's adaptogenic properties can help manage stress and anxiety, promoting a balanced mood.

7. Moringa for Diabetes:

Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Moringa helps to correct impaired digestion due to its Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestive) properties. This reduces Ama and improves the function of insulin. Moringa also has a Katu (pungent) taste which also helps to maintain normal blood sugar levels. 

Tips:

1. Take 1/4- 1/2 teaspoon powder

2. Mix with honey or water 

Honey: Q.S.(Quantity sufficient) Till it becomes lickable consistency

Water: 100 mL

3. Have it with lunch and dinner to manage diabetes.

4. Supports Heart Health

Moringa powder offers numerous cardiovascular benefits. It helps reduce cholesterol levels and prevent plaque formation in the arteries, promoting overall heart health. The antioxidants in moringa also help protect the heart from oxidative damage and improve blood circulation.

8. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

Moringa powder is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to chronic diseases like arthritis and heart disease. Regular consumption of moringa powder can help manage inflammation and protect against chronic illnesses.

Conclusion

Moringa powder is a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits that can significantly enhance your well-being. From boosting your immune system and promoting weight loss to improving skin and hair health, moringa powder is a versatile and effective addition to your diet. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, combined with its ability to support heart health and manage blood sugar levels, make it a superfood worth incorporating into your daily routine. Embrace the natural goodness of moringa powder and experience its surprising health benefits for yourself.

FAQ’s

Q1: What is moringa powder?

Ans: Moringa powder is made from the dried leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree, known for its high nutritional content and numerous health benefits.

Q2: How can I use moringa powder?

Ans: Moringa powder can be taken with water, added to smoothies, sprinkled on food, or used in recipes like lattes.

Q3: Is moringa powder safe for everyone?

Ans: Generally, moringa powder is safe for most people. Pitta Prakriti person (feeling too much heat internally & externally irrespective of external conditions)  and pregnant or nursing women, and those on medication should consult a doctor and take an online quiz to know their dosha.

Q4: What are the main benefits of moringa powder? 

Ans: Moringa powder boosts energy, supports detoxification, enhances immune function, improves heart health, aids digestion, and more.

Q5: Can moringa powder help with weight loss? 

Ans: Yes, moringa powder can help boost metabolism and reduce fat, aiding in weight management.