Moringa oleifera is a tree that’s commonly found in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Although most parts of the tree can be eaten or used in medicine, the most powerful part of the moringa tree is its leaves.
Moringa leaves have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, but it’s only really just come onto the supplement scene in recent years.
Moringa is a commonly used ingredient in super greens powders, which I’m always reviewing and discussing here on Lifehacker Guy.
So, I thought it would be a good idea to take a closer look at moringa and let you know exactly why you should be taking this miracle tree!
Table of Contents
Moringa Is Packed With Essential Micronutrients
Moringa is one of the most nutrient-rich plants on the planet, which is surprising because it’s often overlooked.
Moringa contains high levels of vitamin A which supports the immune system, reproduction, and vision, vitamin B2 which helps convert carbohydrates into energy, vitamin B6 which helps the body to store energy, vitamin C which helps protects and maintains the health of cells.
The high levels of iron help transport oxygen through the body, and magnesium regulates blood sugar levels, blood pressure and helps to make protein and DNA.
Moringa Reduces Inflammation
Moringa has powerful anti-inflammatory properties because it contains polyphenols. Research has shown that moringa reduces inflammation in cells, which is important as inflammation can cause serious illnesses such as diabetes, arthritis, and cancer.
Moringa also contains isothiocyanates, which research has shown specifically reduces colon inflammation that leads to ulcerative colitis.
Moringa Is Rich In Antioxidants
Moringa is packed with antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols (that were discussed above). These antioxidants protect cells from free radical damage. Free radical damage can cause serious illnesses, in particular, cancer.
The antioxidants in moringa also help to reduce visible signs of aging by supporting the skin to repair itself.
Moringa Is Rich In Protein
Moringa is one of the most protein-rich plants in the world, containing 2 grams of protein per cup of fresh leaves. Consuming protein is essential for the body to repair and create cells, have energy, be able to repair muscles, and carry oxygen through the blood.
Although meat-eaters may consume enough protein through eating meat and animal products, moringa is a great way for vegetarians and vegans to consume protein.
Moringa Reduces Stress Levels
Moringa is an adaptogenic herb, which is a herb that can help the body adapt the way it works in order to deal with stress, whether that be psychological, chemical, or physical stress. Adaptogenic herbs don’t just reduce the symptoms of stress but help the body actually adapt to deal with stress better.
The adaptogenic properties of moringa reduce cortisol levels.
High cortisol levels mean that you’ll feel stressed, anxious, tired, and even depressed, so it’s important that you keep your cortisol levels low and balanced for a happy, healthy life.
Moringa Reduces Cholesterol Levels
Research has found that moringa may help to reduce cholesterol levels, and keeping low cholesterol levels (specifically low-density or LDL cholesterol) is important if you want to reduce the risk of things such as heart disease, or strokes.
The polyphenols and flavonoids, both of which are talked about above, are said to lower the levels of LDL cholesterol levels, reducing the likelihood of cholesterol blocking up artery walls and therefore reducing the likelihood of cholesterol and heart-related illnesses.
Moringa Supports The Digestive System
Moringa contains high levels of insoluble fiber which is essential in supporting a healthy digestive system, regulating bowel movements, and reducing symptoms of IBS.
The anti-inflammatory property of moringa also reduces inflammation within the digestive system, reducing the likelihood of illnesses such as colitis, as mentioned above.
The antibacterial properties of moringa may also help to kill nasty gut bacteria, reducing the likelihood of digestive illnesses.
Moringa May Increase Sexual Performance In Men
Moringa may improve sexual performance, specifically in men, because the high levels of vitamin A and vitamin C support sperm production and increase blood flow that can improve erections.
Research has also shown that moringa may improve levels of testosterone, which is linked with sexual desire, sexual performance, and sperm production.
How Much Moringa Should You Take?
There’s not actually a standard recommended dose for moringa, which is common when it comes to ancient herbal extracts. However, benefits have been linked with as little as 500mg, all the way up to 6 grams.
If you haven’t taken moringa before, it’s a good idea to start off with around 500mg per day, that way you’ll still reap the benefits but no side effects will occur.
If you jump straight in with a high dose of moringa, you might experience an upset stomach, so take it easy, to begin with.
How Can You Take Moringa?
You can take moringa in a variety of ways. If you can get hold of fresh moringa leaves, you can make moringa soup, moringa tea, or simply eat them raw as a snack!
However, fresh moringa leaves are often hard to get hold of, or you simply might not have time to prepare them in soup or tea, so you can use moringa powder.
You can either buy moringa powder, or purchase a super greens formula that contains moringa. For example, SuperGreen TONIK, my own super greens brand, provides 500mg of moringa per serving.
Obviously, taking a super greens powder that contains moringa also provides you with other health benefits from the other ingredients within it, so this might be a great option for you!
The Bottom Line – Moringa Is Super Beneficial!
Moringa is one of the most nutritious plants out there, containing a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as being antioxidant-rich and high in protein.
Moringa also provides specific benefits for the body and mind, such as reduced stress levels, reduced inflammation, a supported digestive system, and lower cholesterol levels!
So, what are you waiting for? Start incorporating moringa into your diet today!
LifeHacker Guy Greens Recommendation
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