The Moringa tree is known to be a magic provider of various special benefits and attributes. There is a reason for it being called a miracle tree. This is because the Moringa leaves, root, fruit, sap, pod, oil, flowers and seeds all come with various medicinal attributes. There are many uses of these products and the tree is usually found in Africa, Asia, and also South America.
Let us understand all about the benefits of moringa leaves and its nutritional values.
Moringa Leaves Nutritional Facts
While there are many Moringa seeds or Moringa powder uses, the leaves are also highly nutritious. Here’s taking a closer look at the nutrients found in these miraculous leaves:
- Protein
- Iron
- Riboflavin
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B3 or Niacin
- Vitamin B6
- Folate
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- Phosphorous
16 Biggest Moringa Benefits
There are many Moringa leaves benefits that are listed below for your perusal:
1. Contains Beneficial Amino Acids
They contain beneficial amino acids which help in the development of vital proteins in the type. There are 18 varieties of amino acids contained in these leaves as well.
2. Combats Inflammation
Moringa leaves contain isothiocyanates and niazimicin which help in inhibiting cancer cell development. Inflammation is the central reason behind several types of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, arthritis and even other auto-immune disorders. Hence, consuming these leaves can help greatly in lowering levels of inflammation within the system.
3. Comes with Antioxidants
Moringa leaves have several antioxidants and combat free radicals in the body. These free radicals are otherwise responsible for chronic ailments such as Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes and heart ailments alike. They also contain Vitamin C and crucial beta carotene which combats free radicals as well. They also come with Quercetin, a vital antioxidant that helps in reducing blood pressure levels. They also have Chlorogenic acid that enables blood sugar stabilization.
4. Reduces Blood Sugar
High blood sugar may lead to people contracting diabetes. Diabetes is the harbinger of various issues including organ damage and heart ailments as well. Moringa leaves help greatly in checking blood sugar levels, stabilizing them with isothiocyanates.
5. Lowers Cholesterol
Moringa leaves also help in reducing cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is one of the biggest disease inducers and consumption of these leaves helps tremendously in cutting down on the same.
6. Helps During Pregnancy
Owing to its ability to reduce cholesterol levels, Moringa leaves have a crucial part to play at the time of pregnancy. It helps in scaling down risks for women while combating gestational diabetes in pregnant women as well.
7. Safeguards the Liver
Moringa leaves may benefit people who are suffering from tuberculosis, with their abilities to lower the impacts of anti-tubercular medicines. They also enable better liver cell repair while containing polyphenols that safeguard against liver oxidative damages. They also enhance liver protein levels.
8. Combats Arsenic Toxicity
Contamination via arsenic is a major issue in several regions. Long-term arsenic exposure may lead to heart ailments and cancer alike. Research has clearly indicated that Moringa leaves help in reducing arsenic toxicity levels greatly.
9. Enhances Stomach Health
Moringa leaves function against various forms of digestive ailments. Those suffering due to bloating, constipation, ulcerative colitis and gastritis should integrate the same into their dietary regime.
10. Enhances Bone Health Greatly
Moringa leaves contain phosphorous and calcium alike. They are both suitable for ensuring better bone health. They also come with anti-inflammatory effects, reducing arthritis and healing damaged bones alike.
11. Functions as an Antiseptic
Moringa leaves have antiseptic abilities and help in reducing the impact of bacterial infections. They also help in wound healing, while lowering the impact of cuts, bruises and burns by lowering clotting time considerably.
12. Enhances Lactation
In traditional Ayurveda, Moringa leaves have been used for enhancing overall lactation, especially for mothers who are nursing. Since they contain protein and vital vitamins, they help improve the health of the baby and mother alike.
13. Helps Burn Fat
Moringa leaves may help with fat-burning and weight loss. They help people slim down without diminishing energy levels. This keeps the mood intact while lowering overall cravings at the same time.
14. Enhances Hair and Skin Health
Moringa leaves help in considerably enhancing the appearance and health of hair and skin. They contain rich antioxidants and also boost the condition of the hair follicles simultaneously. They also contribute towards a better skin tone.
15. Boosts the Nervous System
Moringa boosts overall brain health while also working as a neuro-enhancer at the same time. The leaves function as balancers for overall mood, while stabilizing neurotransmitter production including dopamine, serotonin and more.
16. Enables Better Detoxification
Moringa leaves have natural abilities of detoxification. They help in enhancing immunity against several types of diseases or infections. They also boost body energy levels greatly.
Moringa Leaves Side Effects
There are a few side effects of Moringa leaves. These include the following:
- Excessive consumption may lead to laxative issues.
- Pregnant women should avoid the extract, root or bark since they may lead to uterine contraction related issues. They should always consult doctors before consuming Moringa.
- Women who are breastfeeding should also avoid it.
- Sometimes leaf powder may contain lead in higher amounts. Hence, it is important to purchase the same from trusted and reputed entities only.
- Those who are consuming blood thinners should avoid the usage of Moringa as well.
The Bottom Line
Moringa leaves enable greater nutrition while coming with anti-inflammatory attributes alongside. They have anti-oxidative features which combine with cellular-health safety attributes, contributing toward them becoming a superfood of sorts. If you were wondering how to use Moringa leaves, then you boil them and consume them in the form of spinach for instance.