Super foods, you may feel as though they have had their 15 minutes in the spotlight, and they have certainly been the subject of topic over the last few years, but super foods are not going away anytime soon and when you start to uncover how nutrient-dense these food are, it’s no wonder why.

Today we are talking Moringa, this super green has certainly been taking the back seat compared to the other super greens such as spirulina, chlorella and wheat grass, however the health benefits of moringa are becoming more widely known due to its nutrient density and impressive health benefits.

Moringa, also known as Moringa Oleifera is a large tree native to North India that has been used in traditional herbal remedies for thousands of years where the bark, pods, and leaves, are eaten or used as ingredients in traditional herbal medicines. Research has uncovered almost 90 bioactive plant compounds which are beneficial to human health to be found in moringa.

What are the health benefits of Moringa Powder?

Moringa powder, specifically moringa ‘leaf’ powder, is a nutrient dense green super food, best known for its high vitamin E content, immunity boosting compounds, and effects on the producing great skin and hair health. 

moringa nutrition 

Moringa leaves are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals. Generally, moringa is taken as a dietary supplement, either in powder or capsule form.

One cup of fresh, chopped leaves (21 grams [g]) contains

• Calories: 13
• Protein: 2 g
• 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

Let’s dive deep into moringas benefits 

1. Antioxidant Properties

One of the standout features of moringa is its amazing antioxidant content. With over 46 different antioxidants, including a remarkably high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), this helps combat oxidative stress and neutralise harmful free radicals in the body. 

2. Essential Amino Acids

Proteins are the current buzz word in the health industry and amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, they play a crucial role in various processes within the body. Moringa is not only rich in all essential amino acids but also contains numerous non-essential amino acids essential for other metabolic functions.

3. Nutrient-Rich Super Food

Moringa surpasses many other superfoods in its nutritional density.

It contains a variety of vitamins such as A, C, and E to vital minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, moringa offers a comprehensive spectrum of nutrients necessary for optimal health.

4. May have anti-inflammatory benefits

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the development of many chronic illnesses, from obesity and diabetes to arthritis. The root, fruit and leaves of moringa contain substances which inhibit this inflammatory process. 

5. May protect the liver

The liver is essential for maintaining our health and processing nutrients from our diet. Moringa’s high levels of protective compounds called polyphenols help protect the liver and promote recovery of damaged tissue.

6. High in Beta-Carotene & Iron

Moringa leaves are a great source of beta-carotene, boasting ten times more than carrots, and contain 25 times more iron than spinach. This iron content contributes to improved haemoglobin levels, improving the blood’s ability to transport oxygen throughout the body. 

7. Cell Protection & Free Radical Defence

Vitamin E is renowned for its potent antioxidant properties and its role in protecting cells from free radical damage. Moringa offers an impressive 150% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin E in a single serving, strengthening the body’s defences against oxidative stress and supporting long-term cellular health.

8. May support cognitive function

The rich antioxidant properties of moringa may support cognitive function and be useful in the fight against cognitive decline, as well as conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Some research has shown that the leaf extract is also useful in supporting mood, memory, neurotransmitter balance and depression.

9. High Source of Chromium

Chromium, a trace mineral highly found in moringa playing a crucial role in macronutrient metabolism, by aiding in the regulation of blood sugar levels and supporting insulin sensitivity, chromium helps maintain stable energy levels and promotes overall metabolic health.

10. Moringa may lower blood sugar levels

Studies found that Moringa helped lower blood sugar levels, a key aspect of managing diabetes. High blood sugar levels raise the risk of many serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.  

These reduced blood sugar levels may be due to several plant compounds, including quercetin, kaempferol, glucomoringin and chlorogenic acid.

11. Moringa can lower cholesterol

Research suggests that Moringa Oleifera may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, with its antihyperlipidemic properties. It has been known to increase HDL the (good) cholesterol while lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, however more research is still needed to understand the full cholesterol benefits of moringa. 

How to consume Moringa Powder

You can enjoy the health benefits of moringa powder by simply taking daily via capsule form or by adding a spoonful of powder to your smoothies, sprinkle over meals such as cereal or yoghurt, or simply stir into water or juice. 

Is moringa safe for everyone?

It is generally considered safe to eat the leaves and seed pods, however caution should be exercised over the bark and pulp. This is especially relevant during pregnancy because the bark contains chemicals which may promote uterine contractions and may increase the risk of miscarriage.

If you have an underlying health condition, speak with a healthcare professional before taking Moringa oleifera. It’s also important to follow the dosage guidelines on the label of any supplements.

Those on prescribed medication including blood pressure tablets, diabetes medication, thyroid disorders and levothyroxine should check with their GP or pharmacist to ensure moringa is appropriate for their use.

How long does it take for moringa to start working?

Moringa can be taken daily and it will start to perform its benefits after 24 hours, but more research is needed to understand the possible benefits and long-term effects.

The bottom line

Moringa oleifera is a tree native to Asia that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.

Moringa leaves are highly nutritious and should be beneficial for people who are lacking in essential nutrients.

This supplement has so many health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to protect against chronic disease. It could also play an interesting role in helping to balance blood sugar levels by stimulating the cells of the pancreas, which may be useful for type 2 diabetics, and possibly also postmenopausal women in helping to reduce physiological changes. Caution should be taken in pregnancy, and anyone on prescribed medication should seek advice before taking.

If you’re on prescription medication, have a relevant medical condition or have concerns, speak to your GP for guidance.

The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinion of the author, which has been researched through a variety of integrated health modalities.

The information on this website is not intended to replace the relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. The articles are intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience which has come from a variety of health practitioners in their individual fields.

Kin daily, encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your personal health journey with the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.