Moringa oleifera is a plant that is often called the drumstick tree, the miracle tree, the ben oil tree, or the horseradish tree

Moringa has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties and health benefits. It also has antifungal, antiviral, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

All plant parts are used for their health & medicinal benefits

This article describes the main part of this plant- Leaves

Drumstick leaves

Drumstick leaves is said to have high medicinal value. Moringa leaves are great source of protein and also contain all important amino acids. The leaves are mainly rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorous, iron and vitamins A, D, C. There are several studies as well as scientific findings that support the therapeutic nature of Moringa leaves and have confirmed that they are indeed the powerhouse of nutrients. The leaves find many uses in Indian cuisine as they are versatile and can be incorporated in the diet in many ways. Adding them to juices and using them as a stir-fry vegetable are the most common ways in which they are eaten. When consumed in their natural form, the moringa leaves have no side effects.

Health benefits

Increases Energy

Moringa leaves helps in increasing energy levels of the body, giving relief from tiredness and fatigue. Moringa leaves are rich in iron that helps in reducing weakness & drowsiness in the body. These leaves contain good amount of vitamin A which ensures that iron is absorbed & properly utilized by the body. If you feel tired at office or home then you must start your day with a cup of Moringa tea every morning.

Good for Diabetes

Moringa leaves have powerful phytochemicals which can reduce sugar levels in the blood. It can also reduce the levels of cholesterol, lipids & oxidative stress that can contribute to the development of diabetes in human body. Rich content of antioxidants in moringa leaves protects against cell damage & stops the activities of free radicals.

Healthy Brain

The rich contents of antioxidants improves brain health and support cognitive functions. These leaves also improve the functioning & activities of neuro-transmitters. People having Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other brain problems are given moringa leaves to help reduce severity & correct the damage. They are rich in vitamin C & E that fights oxidation, brain aging, thereby boosts the overall health and function of the brain.

Protects Heart

Moringa leaves is said to protect the heart & support cardiovascular system. They bring down the bad cholesterol levels, which can block the blood vessels thereby causing heart attack. These leaves also protect blood vessels & prevent formation of plaque in the arteries that can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Fights Infections

Moringa leaves are rich in antimicrobial & antibacterial compounds and thus help in fighting skin infections, urinary tract infections & digestive problems. It is used in treating injuries and wounds because of its powerful antimicrobial properties. There are blood clotting properties in moringa leaves, which can help in stopping bleeding and prevent infection of wound.

Fight Inflammation

Inflammation is how a body naturally responds to pain and injury. Moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature due to the presence of isothiocyanates. They have niazimicin that is known to reign in the development of cancer cells. Inflammation is the root cause of many diseases like cancer, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many autoimmune diseases. When we suffer an injury or infection, the body suffers increased inflammation.

Basically, it is a protective mechanism against trauma but because of wrong lifestyle and an unhealthy diet, inflammation can increase in the body. Long-term inflammation leads to chronic health issues. Eating moringa leaves helps to reduce inflammation.

Improve Lactation

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, moringa leaves were used to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Since they are a rich source of protein, important vitamins, and essential nutrients, consuming moringa leaves is very good for the health of the mother and the baby.

Good for Nervous System

Many nervous disorders have been known to show positive results against the use of moringa leaves. They support brain health and work as neuro-enhancers. The high concentration of vitamins E and C combat neural degeneration and helps improve brain function. Those who have a migraine or suffer from recurring headaches must eat moringa leaves regularly. These leaves also work as mood balancers as they stabilize the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline which are important for memory, mood and for stimulus-response.

Good for Detoxification

Moringa leaves are natural cleansers and help to detoxify the system. This helps to keep the body and increases immunity against various infections. They also increase the energy levels in the body.

Boosts Immune System

Moringa leaves are loaded with strong immune boosting phytonutrients that strengthens the immune system & enables it to fight off infections & parasites easily. It also contains vitamin A, C & iron that supports a healthy and active immune system.

Healthy Eyes

Leaves of moringa are rich in Vitamin A that supports healthy eyes, clear visions & prevents eye problems.

For Strong Bones

Strong and healthy bones is essential for overall health. If you have pain in the bones then start consuming Moringa leaves regularly. These leaves are very rich in calcium, vitamin K & proteins which contributes to a healthy bone & prevent thinning of bones.

Protects Liver

Moringa leaves contain high concentrations of polyphenols that protects the liver against any damage. These leaves can reverse oxidative damage in the liver and increase levels of proteins in it. Moringa leaves can also reduce liver fibrosis & damage and increase the levels of enzymes in the liver so that it functions properly.

How to Use Moringa leaves?

Moringa powder – Here, the fresh leaves of moringa are dried in a shade. Make sure you don’t dry them under direct sunlight because it will reduce the nutritional value of moringa leaves. After it is dried, grind them into a fine powder.

Moringa juice – fresh leaves of moringa is crushed and then the juice is extracted for use. You can obtain moringa powder and moringa juice from your nearby market or online.

Moringa leaves usage

• Stir it into water
• Use it in tea
• Mix it into shakes and smoothies
• Sprinkle it into soups
• Use as salad toppings

Conclusion

Moringa leaves provide a powerful punch of nutrition and have an anti-inflammatory nature. Their antioxidative properties combined with their cellular-health protective properties make them a new ‘superfood’. They suppress the production of inflammatory enzymes and lower sugar levels. Make these a regular part of your diet to reap rich health benefits.