Moringa oleifera, also called the drumstick tree or horseradish tree, is native to tropical countries in Asia, although it is also grown in Africa and tropical regions in America.
Most parts of the tree can be eaten or used as ingredients in herbal remedies, including the leaves, flowers, and pods. Moringa oleifera is popular for its nutritional and medicinal benefits, although there is a lack of sufficient evidence regarding its safety or effectiveness.
Here are 6 science-based health benefits of Moringa oleifera.6 health benefits of Moringa oleifera
1. Powerhouse of nutrients
According to studies, Moringa oleifera contains 7 times more vitamin C than oranges and 10 times more vitamin A than carrots. Its mineral content is robust as well, providing you with 17 times more calcium than milk, 15 times more potassium than bananas, and 25 times more iron than spinach. Moreover, it is an excellent vegan source of protein with 9 times more protein than yogurt.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 13.4 kcal (kilocalories) |
| Water | 16.6 g (grams) |
| Protein | 1.97 g |
| Total carbohydrates | 1.74 g |
| Fiber | 0.42 g |
| Total fats | 0.29 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 |
| Calcium | 38.8 mg (milligrams) |
| Iron | 0.84 mg |
| Magnesium | 8.82 mg |
| Phosphorus | 23.5 mg |
| Potassium | 70.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1.89 mg |
| Zinc | 0.13 mg |
| Selenium | 0.19 µg (micrograms) |
| Vitamin C | 10.9 mg |
| Folate | 8.4 µg |
| Vitamin A | 1590 IU (international unit) |
2. Fights oxidative stress
Moringa is high in antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid and quercetin, which help neutralize oxidative stress. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between the production and accumulation of harmful free radicals in the body and the ability of the body to detoxify them. Oxidative stress can damage proteins, DNA, cells, and tissues, leading to the development of various diseases. By combating free radical damage, Moringa oleifera can protect you against various diseases.
3. Boosts immunity
Research suggests that Moringa consumption may help strengthen your immune system against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The fruit is rich in phytonutrients that not only improve the immune cell count but also enhance their disease-fighting ability.
4. Promotes heart health
According to some studies, Moringa helps lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels due to its rich potassium and vitamin C content. Polyphenolic compounds also protect the heart and blood vessels against damaging free radicals. Thus, eating Moringa may help lower the risk of hypertension, heart attack, and stroke.
5. Lowers inflammation
Moringa is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that can ease inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation damages the cells and tissues of the body and is associated with diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and cancer. Some studies report that Moringa has a pain-relieving action that may be beneficial in conditions such as arthritis.
6. Helps with waste removal
Your body gets rid of harmful substances including toxic metabolic wastes through various mechanisms, particularly through the activity of the liver and kidney. Studies report that Moringa may strengthen your body’s natural detoxification systems and help remove excess uric acid that contributes to diseases such as gout and kidney damage.
How safe are Moringa supplements?
Moringa oleifera is rich in vital nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and protein that are beneficial for overall health. However, many of the purported health benefits have not been studied scientifically.
Since Moringa supplements are not approved by the FDA for medicinal use, it is best to consult your doctor before taking these supplements for preventive or treatment purposes. Supplements may also be unsafe if you are pregnant and breastfeeding or have any underlying diseases.
QUESTION
According to the USDA, there is no difference between a “portion” and a “serving.” See Answerhttps://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168416/nutrientsYour
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4025314/#:~:text=in%20mice%20model.-,Orally%20administered%20Moringa%20leaves%20blocked%20various%20toxic%20effects%20of%20arsenic,for%20treating%20arsenic%2Dexposed%20human.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453016300362
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