Health & Life

The Vegetable That Is ‘Vegetable Bird’s Nest’ Has 4 Times More Calcium Than Milk: Vietnamese Market Is Full But Many Don’t Know and Eat

Moringa, once considered a weed, is now a sought-after delicacy with prices ranging from $3-4 per pound.

3 May, 2024

Vietnam has a wide variety of nutrient-rich vegetables that are inexpensive and extremely beneficial to human health. One of them is a plant similar to water spinach called ‘vegetable bird’s nest’, which contains four times the calcium of milk and has anti-cancer properties. Moringa, once considered a wild vegetable, is now a sought-after delicacy with prices ranging from VND 80,000 to VND 100,000 per kilogram.

Health benefits of moringa

+ Prevents cancer

Moringa leaves contain a high amount of vitamin C and antioxidants. These substances help prevent the formation of free radicals. Additionally, the niazimicin in the leaves of this plant is also believed to have the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

Moringa is very beneficial to human health

+ Good for the liver

Moringa leaves have been found to contain a large amount of the active substance silymarin. This substance has the ability to improve liver function, thereby protecting the liver from damage caused by excessive fat consumption.

+ Good for high blood pressure

The niazimicin and isothiocyanate content in moringa leaves will help reduce the thickness of the arteries and balance blood pressure.

+ Good for the cardiovascular system

The antioxidants in moringa leaves help reduce bad cholesterol in the blood, thereby preventing damage to the heart and reducing the risk of heart disease.

+ Boosts the immune system

Vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants in moringa leaves help boost the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight off disease-causing bacteria and viruses.

+ Treats constipation

Moringa leaves contain high levels of soluble and insoluble fiber, which make bowel movements more efficient and prevent constipation.

+ Prevents anemia

You may not know that moringa leaves contain a significant amount of iron. Therefore, eating this vegetable regularly will help improve iron deficiency anemia.

However, avoid eating too much moringa because this plant is rich in nutrients, vitamin C, and calcium. Eating too much can lead to excess calcium and vitamin C, which can have negative effects on health. Also, avoid eating moringa in the evening to ensure a good night’s sleep, as moringa can cause insomnia. In particular, pregnant women should not eat moringa for the safety of the fetus and the mother.

Some delicious and nutritious ways to prepare moringa

Moringa can be prepared in many delicious and nutritious ways

+ Moringa soup with minced meat

Moringa soup with the sweet taste of minced meat and the slightly bitter taste of moringa will quickly become a favorite dish in your family. The refreshing flavor of this soup will help you cool down on a hot summer day.

Besides moringa soup with minced meat, you can also substitute it with shrimp, crab, beef, or mushrooms such as straw mushrooms, snow fungus, and enoki mushrooms to diversify the menu for each meal.

+ Moringa stir-fried with beef

Moringa stir-fried with beef is a very easy-to-eat dish that is suitable for everyone in the family. If you want your child to eat more vegetables, try making this dish. In particular, moringa also has the effect of preventing malnutrition in children.

+ Moringa stir-fried with eggs

You can also try moringa stir-fried with eggs, a dish that is especially suitable for children with poor appetite. With simple ingredients, you can quickly make this dish in just a few minutes for a busy breakfast or lunch.

Frequently asked questions

Moringa, once a wild vegetable, has gained recognition for its extensive health benefits. It is now sought-after for its ability to prevent cancer, support liver function, regulate blood pressure, boost cardiovascular health, strengthen the immune system, treat constipation, and prevent anemia.

Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which inhibit the formation of free radicals. Additionally, the leaves contain niazimicin, believed to have cancer-fighting properties by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.

Moringa leaves contain high levels of silymarin, a substance known to improve liver function and protect the organ from damage caused by excessive fat consumption.

The niazimicin and isothiocyanate present in moringa leaves work together to reduce artery thickness and balance blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

Moringa leaves are packed with vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants, which work together to strengthen the body’s defenses against disease-causing bacteria and viruses.

The leaves of the moringa plant contain high levels of soluble and insoluble fiber, which improve bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Moringa leaves are a significant source of iron, and regular consumption can help improve iron deficiency anemia. However, it is important to consume moringa in moderation, as excessive intake may lead to calcium and vitamin C excess, potentially impacting health negatively.

Moringa is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in numerous delicious and nutritious ways. Try moringa soup with minced meat, shrimp, crab, or beef for a refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days. Stir-frying moringa with beef or eggs is another easy and tasty option, especially for children or those with a smaller appetite.