HEALTH BENEFITS OF MORINGA LEAVES

 HEALTH BENEFITS OF MORINGA LEAVES [सहजन] 

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Moringa oleifera, also known as the “tree of life” or “miracle tree,” is classified as an important herbal plant due to its immense medicinal and non-medicinal benefits. Indian common name of Moringa oleifera Hindi mungna, saijna, sahajan and plays an important role in protecting the liver from damage, oxidation and toxicity due to the high concentrations of polyphenols in its leaves and flowers. Moringa oleifera oil can also restore liver enzymes to normal levels, reducing oxidative stress and increasing protein content in the liver. Traditionally, the plant is used to cure wounds, pain, ulcers, liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and inflammation.

The benefits of moringa may include:

👉🏼A rich source of protective antioxidants: Antioxidant compounds, including nutrients and phytochemicals, help protect cells from the damage incurred by molecules called free radicals; these are produced by the body when exposed to environmental toxins like pesticides and cigarette smoke. Moringa, especially its leaves, is rich in a number of beneficial compounds which provide antioxidant protection. These include vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as polyphenols, such as quercetin, rutin and chlorogenic acid.

👉🏼May help to stimulate the cells of the pancreas to support blood sugar control: Most of the evidence supporting the use of moringa for balancing blood sugar has been based on animal studies – these suggest that compounds in the leaves may stimulate the cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for the secretion of the blood-sugar balancing hormone, ininsulin An interesting study looking at the effects of the leaf powder on postmenopausal woman showed that taking 1½ teaspoons of moringa leaf powder every day for three months reduced fasting blood glucose levels by an average of 13.5%. This suggests that moringa may be helpful in addressing some of the physiological changes experienced by women in midlife.

👉🏼May have anti-inflammatory benefits to protect against chronic disease: 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.

👉🏼High levels of protective polyphenols may have anti-inflammatory benefits: moringa’s high levels of protective compounds called polyphenols helped protect the liver and promote recovery of damaged titissue Very recent human trials suggest a possible role for moringa as an anti-cancer drug for liver cancer.

👉🏼Rich antioxidant properties 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. In addition to this, it would appear that the plant may be useful in supporting mood,

Here are 5 of our favourite ways to #dothemoringa:

SPRINKLE: onto salads, eggs, roasted veg, pasta & risotto

BAKE:  into savoury bread, brownies, muffins & cookies

STIR: into soups, dips, sauces, casseroles & stews

SHAKE: into apple juice, coconut water & salad dressings

BLEND: into sauces, green juices, smoothies & ice creams

Note: 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.

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