Health & Life

The Amazing Health Benefits of Moringa Trees Unveiled

Discover the Amazing Moringa Tree, also known as the 'Ben Tree' or 'Drumstick Tree'. This versatile and nutrient-rich plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cuisine across the globe. With its powerful health benefits and unique flavor, the Moringa Tree is a true gift of nature, offering a plethora of advantages for those seeking a healthier and more vibrant life.

Administrator

8 July, 2024

104

Discover the Moringa Tree

The Moringa tree, or Moringa Oleifera, is a versatile plant with a variety of common names in English, including the “horseradish tree” (due to its roots having a similar taste to horseradish), the “drumstick tree” (because its pods resemble drumsticks), and the “ben-oil tree” (as the oil extracted from its seeds is known as ben oil).

Ecological Characteristics of the Moringa Tree

The Moringa tree is a small-sized tree. When left unpruned, it can grow up to 5-6 meters in height and reach a diameter of 10 cm by the age of one. At maturity, which is typically around 3-4 years old, its average height ranges from 5 to 10 meters.

The bark of the tree is thick and gray-white in color, with distinct ridges. When damaged, the bark exudes a gum-like substance that, over time and with exposure to the environment, turns from white to reddish-brown or dark brown. The tree is devoid of thorns. Its leaves are bipinnate, growing alternately and reaching lengths of 30-60 cm. The leaflets are typically 12-20 mm long and grow in pairs, with each leaf having 6-9 such pairs. Moringa flowers are white and grow in clusters resembling those of legumes. They usually bloom between April and June.

The Moringa tree’s pods are brown, with a triangular cross-section, and hang downwards. Each pod is 30-50 cm long and 1.5-2.5 cm wide, containing at least 20 seeds. The seeds themselves are dark or light brown, three-angled, and membranous, with white, 1.5-2.5 cm long wings and a diameter of 1-1.4 cm.

Distribution

According to the Dictionary of Vietnamese Medicinal Plants, compiled by Dr. Vo Van Chi in 1996, the Moringa tree is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions. In Vietnam, it is scattered across the southern provinces, including Da Nang, Quang Nam, Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, and Kien Giang (Phu Quoc Island).

Parts Used and Harvesting

Parts Used: Pods, roots, young leaves, flowers, and young branches
Harvesting: Pods are harvested from July to September. Leaves can be harvested year-round, while flowers are available from April to June.

Chemical Composition

Each part of the Moringa tree contains a unique set of chemical compounds. For instance:

Bark: The bark contains gum substances (galactose, arabinose, and glucuronic acid), β-sitosterol, and benzylanine.
Roots: The roots contain glucosinolate compounds, including 4 (-L-rhamnosyloxy)-benzyl glucosinolate.
Leaves: Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds (kaempferol, gallic acid, kaempferol 3–O––rhamnoside, rutin, syringic acid, and quercetin 3–O– –glucoside). They also contain gum substances and two alkaloids, moringinin and moringin.
Flowers: Polysaccharides are the primary chemical component found in Moringa flowers.
Seeds: The seeds contain glucosinolate and peptide compounds.
Whole Plant: Pterygospermin is the main chemical constituent found in the entire Moringa plant.

According to nutrition experts, 1 kg of Moringa can provide sufficient daily nutrition for a family of four. Among its various parts, the leaves of the Moringa tree are considered to have the highest nutritional value. Comparatively, Moringa contains seven times more vitamin C than oranges, four times more vitamin A than carrots, and four times more calcium than milk.

Nutritional Value of the Moringa Tree

Benefits of the Moringa Tree

Based on its impressive nutritional profile, scientists have identified numerous health benefits associated with the Moringa tree, including:

Cancer Prevention

Moringa leaves are rich in zinc, vitamin C, antioxidants, and other active compounds that can combat cancer-causing agents and free radicals. They also contain niazimicin, a compound known to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Improved Metabolism and Immune System

The immune system can be strengthened by the antioxidants, zinc, and vitamin C found in Moringa leaves. This, in turn, enhances the body’s defense mechanism against bacterial and viral invaders, as well as free radicals.

Cardiovascular Health

Regular and proper consumption of Moringa can contribute to a healthy heart. The high levels of antioxidants in Moringa leaves have been shown to help lower cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Liver Protection

Moringa leaves contain silymarin, which helps enhance liver enzyme function and protect the liver from damage caused by the consumption of fatty foods.

Moringa Leaves Contain Silymarin, Beneficial for the Liver

Blood Sugar Reduction

Moringa is well-known as a beneficial herb for diabetics. This is attributed to the presence of isothiocyanates, plant compounds that help reduce blood sugar levels, as well as protein and sugar in urine.

Hypertension Control

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, often occurs when arteries thicken. Moringa leaves contain compounds such as niazimicin and isothiocyanate, which can help prevent and manage this condition.

Anemia Prevention

Moringa leaves are recommended for individuals suffering from iron-deficiency anemia. They contain significantly higher levels of iron than beef or other animal meats. Specifically, 100g of dried leaf powder contains up to 28mg of iron.

Beauty Benefits

In addition to its medicinal properties, Moringa is also a valuable ally in the beauty routines of women. Oil extracted from Moringa seeds contains the hormone xitokinin, which helps maintain healthy, firm skin. The antioxidants and vitamin C in Moringa also protect the skin and slow down the aging process.

Moringa helps nurture healthy skin and hair.

Proper Usage of the Moringa Tree

Moringa can be prepared in a variety of ways:

Leaves: With a flavor similar to Rau ngót, Moringa leaves can be incorporated into everyday meals. They can also be consumed raw or blended into delicious smoothies. Alternatively, you can dry the leaves, grind them into a powder, and then mix the powder with water to drink or use in cooking porridge or baby formula.

Flowers: Dry the flowers and brew them like tea.

Pods: Cook the pods in various dishes, such as soups, bone broths, or stir-fries with meat.

Precautions when Using the Moringa Tree

Avoid prolonged continuous use: Moringa is extremely rich in vitamin C and calcium. Therefore, continuous long-term use may lead to an excess of these nutrients, especially in young children. It is recommended to consume Moringa no more than three times a week, with a maximum dosage of 20-30g per serving.

Do not consume in the evening: Individuals with a history of insomnia should refrain from consuming Moringa in the evening, as it may disrupt sleep.

Not suitable for pregnant women: Moringa contains alpha 1-sitosterol, a compound that causes uterine contractions. As a result, pregnant women who consume Moringa are at an increased risk of miscarriage.

Pregnant Women Should Avoid Consuming Moringa

Avoid overcooking: To retain the maximum nutritional value of Moringa, it is advisable to cook the leaves moderately, avoiding overcooking.

Frequently asked questions

Moringa trees offer a wide range of potential health benefits, including improved blood sugar control, reduced inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and enhanced liver protection. The leaves are particularly nutrient-rich, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost overall health and well-being.

Moringa has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes. The isothiocyanates present in Moringa may help improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, leading to better blood sugar management.

Moringa exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to the presence of antioxidants and phytochemicals. These compounds can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, providing potential relief from conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Yes, Moringa has been found to have cholesterol-lowering effects. The leaves contain compounds that can help reduce LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while also increasing HDL (‘good’) cholesterol. This can contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system and reduced risk of heart disease.

Moringa is believed to possess hepatoprotective properties, meaning it can help protect the liver from damage and promote its proper functioning. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in Moringa may help detoxify the liver and reduce the impact of toxins and free radicals.

While generally considered safe, excessive consumption of Moringa may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea in some individuals. It is always advisable to introduce any new dietary supplement gradually and consult a healthcare professional before adding it to your routine, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.