Moringa, also known as the drumstick tree and the miracle tree, is native to northern India and is grown in many other parts of the world. It is popular for its high nutritional profile, which is said to help fight malnutrition and can also protect against many chronic health conditions. The plant, Moringa oleifera, is also a part of traditional herbal medicines, celebrated for its multifaceted benefits, said Dr Kriti Soni, Head of R&D, Kapiva, in an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team.
"In the Ayurvedic lens, moringa and its powder are considered a powerhouse of nutrients with a unique combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants," she said, adding that its bitter and pungent taste is believed to pacify the Kapha dosha, making it particularly beneficial for those with Kapha imbalances.
Therefore, let us dive into the many benefits of the plant and understand why its powder can be a part of our diet.
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Rich In Antioxidants
Antioxidants play a vital role in curbing the damage caused by free radicals in the body. A high amount of free radicals can cause oxidative stress, often linked to chronic illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes. Moringa powder contains rich antioxidant properties, such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which not only help lower blood pressure but also help regulate blood sugar levels, respectively.
Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Moringa Oleifera is said to contain compounds that help lower blood sugar levels. In a study published in the Journal Nutrients, a significant reduction either in glycaemia or in glucose tolerance was noted in diabetic animals treated with moringa leaf extract.
However, the study mentioned that only two studies in humans, one conducted on postmenopausal women and one on type 2 diabetes mellitus, suggest a significant glycaemia reduction, whereas four others, two with healthy subjects and two with diabetes patients, showed no reduction. Therefore, more research is needed to support moringa’s benefits for diabetes patients.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation in the body occurs mainly due to the body's natural defence against infection or injury. Moringa is rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which are said to help reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, liver diseases, ulcerative colitis, and asthma. As per a study published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine, more than 46 antioxidants (ascorbic acid, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds) and 36 anti-inflammatory (isothiocianate and phenolic derivatives) compounds are naturally present in the Moringa plant.
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Promotes Digestive Health
According to Medical News Today, moringa can help treat stomach disorders due to its digestion-aiding properties. The health body shares that it has a laxative effect, which helps reduce the risk of constipation. In addition, a study published in the Journal Food Science and Human Wellness found that moringa helped reduce stomach acidity by 85%, preventing the risk of peptic ulcers.
Prevents Anaemia
Moringa leaves are also an excellent source of iron, which helps in the production of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. A recent study published in the Journal Nutrients suggests that moringa supplementation is said to increase haemoglobin levels, as well as other haematological parameters such as haematocrit, which can be attributed to the presence of iron in the moringa supplement.
This is why moringa is also said to prevent anaemia, which particularly affects young children, menstruating adolescent girls and women, and pregnant and postpartum women, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Conclusion
Dr Soni said, “From an Ayurvedic perspective, moringa is praised for its ability to enhance digestion, balance blood sugar levels, and strengthen the immune system. It is classified as a rasayana, or rejuvenating herb, promoting overall vitality and longevity.”
She added, “The powder’s inherent properties align with Ayurvedic principles, offering support for conditions like inflammation, anaemia, and oxidative stress.”
However, more research is needed to confirm its safety and benefits, and it is best to speak to your healthcare provider before resorting to an ingredient for treating a condition.