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Moringa is a plant belonging to the Moringaceae family, native to India but widespread in all equatorial and tropical regions of the planet. The most well-known species is Moringa oleifera, also known as Moringa pterygosperma or Moringa aptera, a tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. Other species of the Moringa genus include M. ovalifolia, M. ruspoliana, M. drouhardii, and several others.
Long used in Indian folk medicine and the traditions of the countries where it grows, such as Asia, South America, Africa, the Caribbean, and some countries in Oceania, moringa is often called the "miracle tree" or "tree of miracles." This nickname derives not only from the supposed curative and preventive abilities attributed to the plant but also from its surprising ability to grow in unfavorable conditions, resisting drought and adapting to poor soils with variable pH levels.
All parts of the moringa tree are used: the leaves, roots, and unripe pods are consumed as vegetables, either fresh or cooked. The seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, powdered, or added to tea and curry. The oil extracted from the seeds is sweet and resistant to rancidity, while the seed paste is used to purify drinking water.
In short, moringa is a versatile and valuable plant with multiple uses ranging from nutrition to cosmetics, and even medicinal applications. In this article, we aim to explore these uses, highlighting the various benefits associated with this plant.
Moringa oleifera is a tree belonging to the Moringaceae family, native to eastern India, particularly the foothill regions of Uttar Pradesh.
Today, the species is widely distributed and cultivated throughout the tropical belt of the planet. This plant can reach a height of 4 to 7 meters, even exceeding 10 meters in deep and fertile soil. The trunk is erect or branched from the base, with a soft and spongy texture. The thin and intertwined branches have a drooping habit, while the compound leaves feature opposite oval leaflets that are light green on the front and glaucous green on the back.
The flowers of moringa are small, numerous, and cream-white in color. They are excellent nectar producers for bees and also add a modest decorative value to the plant. The fruits are large, triangular-section pods, 30 to 45 cm long, containing 16 to 22 brown, round seeds per pod. Each tree can produce 20 to 80 pods.
Drought-resistant, moringa can thrive in a wide variety of soils, even poor or barren ones, as long as they are well-drained. It has no preference regarding soil pH, tolerating values from 4.5 to 9.0. In very dry climates, it is often the only plant that remains green, losing its leaves only in extreme drought conditions and then regrowing them with the return of moisture.
Moringa oleifera is a plant rich in beneficial properties due to the presence of numerous nutrients and bioactive compounds. Among the main properties attributed to moringa are:
Although several studies have confirmed these properties, further research is needed to precisely define their mechanisms of action and effects on the human body. Most investigations have been conducted in vitro or on animal models, and there is still insufficient data on humans to fully exploit the therapeutic potential of moringa oleifera in clinical settings.
Moringa oleifera offers numerous health benefits thanks to its rich nutritional profile. This plant contains high concentrations of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as substances like quercetin and chlorogenic acid, making it an excellent antioxidant for the body and its cells. Moringa is also a good source of minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, and zinc, which are important for energy metabolism, the nervous system, and bone health.
Several studies have highlighted the therapeutic properties of moringa oleifera. Leaf extracts have shown an anti-inflammatory effect comparable to that of ibuprofen, while dried seeds seem to improve respiratory function in asthmatic patients. Additionally, the intake of moringa in diabetic subjects could help reduce postprandial glucose levels. Other benefits attributed to this plant include antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, and even anticancer effects, although further studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Moringa may also aid in weight control due to its ability to increase the feeling of satiety and stimulate metabolism.
However, it is important to note that the FDA has not yet regulated or approved moringa supplementation, so it is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting to take it.
Moringa oleifera is used in various fields thanks to its numerous beneficial properties and nutrients. The most commonly used parts of the plant are the leaves, flowers, fruits (pods), seeds, bark, and roots. In countries where moringa is indigenous, local populations widely use it in their daily diet: leaves, flowers, fruits, and roots are consumed fresh or cooked, while seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to tea and curry. The oil extracted from the seeds is appreciated for its sweetness and resistance to rancidity.
In the West, dried and powdered leaves are mainly used to prepare infusions and beverages. Leaf powder and seed extracts are also included in various dietary supplements approved by the Italian Ministry of Health. Another sector where moringa is used is cosmetics: both plant extracts and oil obtained from the seeds are used to formulate products for skin and hair care.
In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the use of moringa in specific areas such as nutrition, cosmetics, and supplements, exploring in detail the benefits this extraordinary plant can offer to our well-being.
Moringa is a very versatile plant in cooking and nutrition, thanks to its rich nutritional profile. In countries where it grows naturally, leaves, pods, seeds, flowers, and roots are regularly consumed as part of the normal diet. The moringa leaves, considered the most nutritious part of the plant, can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach. Rich in essential amino acids, vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and C) and minerals (calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, and zinc), the leaves are also dried, crushed, or powdered to enrich soups, sauces, and teas.
The immature pods, known as "drumstick" or "drumsticks," are particularly appreciated in South Asia. Generally boiled, they are a good source of fiber, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. The moringa seeds can be consumed boiled or roasted and seem to contain interesting concentrations of vitamin C, B vitamins, and mineral salts. An edible oil with a sweet taste and resistant to rancidity, rich in oleic acid (65-75%) and behenic acid, is also extracted from the seeds. This oil, known as Ben oil or Behen oil, has multiple uses in cooking.
Finally, the roots are also used in nutrition, chopped and used as flavorings. However, excessive consumption can cause undesirable effects due to the presence of the alkaloid spirochin.
Thanks to its remarkable nutritional value, moringa has been proposed in some poor countries as a food to combat malnutrition, especially in children. Its ability to provide a complete and balanced protein intake makes it a valuable resource in contexts of poverty and hardship.
Moringa is also widely used in the cosmetic field thanks to its moisturizing, emollient, and antioxidant properties. The oil extracted from moringa seeds, in particular, is highly appreciated for formulating skin and hair care products. Rich in fatty acids such as oleic acid and behenic acid, moringa oil has a light texture and a high nourishing power. Applied to the skin, it helps to deeply hydrate dry and dehydrated skin, giving it softness and elasticity. Thanks to the presence of antioxidants such as flavonoids, this oil also combats the signs of skin aging, protecting the skin from the action of free radicals and external pollutants.
Moringa oil is also used in hair products, such as conditioners and restructuring masks. Its composition makes it an excellent ally to strengthen and nourish fragile, brittle, or damaged hair. Applied to the scalp, it can help soothe irritations and dryness, promoting healthy and shiny hair. In addition to the oil, extracts of moringa leaves and seeds are also included in the composition of various cosmetics, from massage oils to face creams, exploiting the soothing and regenerating properties of this extraordinary plant. In short, moringa proves to be a valuable ingredient for taking care of oneself naturally, providing well-being and beauty to the entire body.
Moringa is widely used as a dietary supplement thanks to its numerous beneficial properties and its rich nutritional profile. Moringa supplements are available in various forms, including:
These supplements are generally taken to exploit the plant's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as to supplement the diet with the numerous nutrients it contains. However, it is important to note that, despite the therapeutic potentials attributed to moringa, most studies have been conducted in vitro or on animal models, while sufficient scientific evidence on humans is still lacking.
Before taking moringa supplements, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or specific health conditions, it is essential to consult a doctor. Additionally, it is crucial to adhere to the doses indicated by the manufacturer to avoid side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. In any case, the intake of these supplements cannot replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, which remain the pillars for maintaining psychophysical well-being.
Despite the numerous benefits attributed to moringa, it is important to also be aware of its possible contraindications. In particular, the root extracts of this plant seem to possess abortifacient properties, as reported in the PDR for Herbal Medicines. For this reason, the use of moringa root and its derivatives or preparations is absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy.
More generally, as a precaution, pregnant women should avoid consuming any part of the plant or its extracts, even if not derived from the roots, without first consulting their doctor. Although moringa leaves and seeds are considered safe and beneficial in many contexts, it is always better to act with caution when it comes to a delicate condition like pregnancy.
Before starting to take supplements or preparations based on moringa, it is therefore essential to inform your doctor, especially in cases of pregnancy, breastfeeding, or specific health conditions. Only a professional can assess the potential risks and benefits in each individual case, providing the most appropriate guidelines for the safe use of this extraordinary plant.
Moringa is generally well tolerated and should not cause particular side effects if taken in the recommended doses. However, excessive or prolonged use could lead to the appearance of some disorders, such as laxative effects. Additionally, the occurrence of allergic reactions in sensitive individuals cannot be ruled out.
Among the contraindications, it should be noted that moringa supplements should not be taken in case of a known allergy to the plant. Similarly, use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended, nor is the use of these products in case of ongoing pharmacological therapies, especially those based on drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450.
In the presence of disorders, diseases, or treatments of any kind, it is therefore essential to consult your doctor before taking moringa oleifera supplements. Only this healthcare professional, knowing your clinical history, health status, and any ongoing therapies, can determine whether the intake of such products is indicated or not in each individual case.
