Health & Life

The ‘Miracle’ Tree: Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Vietnam’s Wild-Growing Wonder.

"Did you know that a common weed found in Vietnam is now being sought after by the world for its incredible nutritional profile, boasting over 90 valuable nutrients?"

Administrator

28 July, 2024

## The “Miracle Tree” with a 4,000-year History

The “miracle tree” has been utilized for over 4,000 years

According to scientist and polyclinic physician Bui Dac Sang, a member of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, the drumstick tree is also known by many other names such as the divine tree, the miraculous tree, the omnipotent tree, the life-saving tree, the horse radish tree, and the drumstick tree due to the shape of its fruit, which resembles a drumstick. The scientific name of the drumstick tree is Moringa Oleifera Lam (M. Pterygosperum Gaertn), belonging to the Moringaceae family.

The drumstick tree is a tall, woody tree that was discovered and utilized over 4,000 years ago. Initially, the tree grew wild in Vietnam, but it is now commonly cultivated in the northern, southern, and south-central provinces.

In addition, the drumstick tree is grown, exploited, and widely used in many parts of the world due to its high economic value.

The drumstick tree is a tall, woody tree that has been utilized for over 4,000 years

Mr. Bui Dac Sang, a scientist and polyclinic physician at the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, shared that most of the research on the drumstick tree is conducted in India, the Philippines, and Africa. Dubbed the “miracle tree,” the drumstick tree is renowned for its versatility, with almost all parts of the plant being usable for food.

The drumstick tree’s parts contain important minerals and are rich in protein, vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids, and phenolic compounds. Notably, the tree also provides rare compounds such as Zeatin, Quercetin, alpha-sitosterol, Cafeoylquinic acid, and Kaempferol.

Some studies have shown that the drumstick tree contains over 90 nutrients, including 7 vitamins, 6 minerals, 18 amino acids, 46 antioxidants, along with a large number of anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and detoxifying compounds that help protect the liver, prevent cancer, prostate problems, stabilize blood pressure, and reduce cholesterol.

“The leaves of the drumstick tree contain higher levels of nutrients than its flowers and fruits (by weight). Specifically, the leaves have seven times more vitamin C than oranges, four times more vitamin A than carrots, four times more calcium than milk, four times more iron than spinach, twice the amount of protein as yogurt, and three times more potassium than bananas,” said Mr. Sang.

Some studies indicate that the drumstick tree contains over 90 nutrients

Mr. Sang also said that the young leaves, flowers, and young branches of the drumstick tree are rich in nutrients and trace elements. These parts can be used as food to prevent malnutrition. However, when used for cooking, the drumstick tree parts must be cooked thoroughly.

The young leaves of the drumstick tree are often used to cook soup with meat, shrimp, or mushrooms. Dried and powdered drumstick leaves can be stored for a long time without losing their nutritional value and are commonly used for making drinks or adding to dishes.

The flowers of the drumstick tree are rich in nectar and nutrients and can be eaten or dried to make a nutritious tea.

Medicinal Uses of the Drumstick Tree

In traditional medicine, all parts of the drumstick tree, including the roots, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and bark, can be used as medicine.

Mr. Bui Dac Sang, a scientist and polyclinic physician at the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, shared that the roots of the drumstick tree have stimulating, blood-activating, and carminative properties. They are beneficial for digestion, cardiovascular health, and the circulatory system and are particularly advantageous for the nervous system.

In traditional medicine, all parts of the drumstick tree can be used for medicinal purposes

– Drumstick fruits and seeds: Effective in pain relief.

– Drumstick flowers: Known for their aphrodisiac properties, stimulating and enhancing libido.

– White sap from the tree: Provides pain relief.

– Drumstick bark: With its antibacterial and diuretic properties, it is often used in the treatment of gonorrhea.

In India, the drumstick tree is used not only as a pain reliever and fever reducer but also as a blood activator in the treatment of paralysis and chronic arthritis. It is also used to treat epilepsy, assist the heart, improve blood circulation, address nervous weakness during fainting spells, and relieve intestinal spasms and flatulence.

In Cambodia, the root bark of the drumstick tree is commonly used for postpartum women to eliminate blood stasis, retained placenta, and aid in quick recovery.

In Thailand, the drumstick tree trunk is used for air ventilation, the fruit is used to treat diseases related to the liver, spleen, and stomach, joint pain, tetanus, and paralysis. The seeds of the drumstick tree are also used to treat venereal diseases.

Despite the numerous health benefits of the drumstick tree, Mr. Sang warns that pregnant women should refrain from using this plant.

Frequently asked questions

The ‘Miracle Tree’, scientifically known as Moringa Oleifera, is a wild-growing tree native to the tropics. It is found abundantly in Vietnam, where it is revered for its wide range of medicinal and nutritional benefits. The tree gained its name from the multitude of health advantages it provides, acting as a natural remedy for various ailments.

For centuries, the Miracle Tree has been an integral part of traditional medicine in Vietnam and other Asian countries. Various parts of the tree, including the leaves, flowers, and roots, are used to treat a variety of health issues. The leaves, for instance, are known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful in treating skin conditions and boosting overall immune function.

The Miracle Tree is often referred to as a ‘superfood’ due to its exceptional nutritional profile. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. The leaves, in particular, contain high levels of vitamin A, C, and K, as well as significant amounts of calcium, potassium, and protein. This makes the tree a valuable source of nutrition, especially in areas where access to diverse foods may be limited.

The Miracle Tree’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it an effective remedy for various skin concerns. The leaves and flowers can be used topically to soothe skin irritations and promote wound healing. Additionally, the high vitamin C content in the tree’s leaves helps boost collagen production, resulting in improved skin elasticity and a more youthful appearance.

In addition to its medicinal and nutritional benefits, the Miracle Tree is also believed to possess anti-aging properties and support brain health. The high antioxidant content in the tree’s leaves helps combat cell damage caused by free radicals, potentially slowing down the aging process. Furthermore, the Miracle Tree has been linked to improved cognitive function and enhanced memory, possibly due to its positive impact on brain health and circulation.