Moringa is a popular ingredient in in South Asian food. For instance, Indian recipes use these extensively as a spice through curries, cooked vegetables, and rice dishes. However, these leaves offer more than just a flavourful punch alone. This is because it packs vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, and C, all of which give you the immunity you need. Further, it houses micro elements such as calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium.

The best part – this is a low fat and cholesterol free herb. Thus, you may add this freely to your dishes without fearing weight gain.

Much like other Ayurvedic herbs, Moringa is versatile and multi-beneficial. In other words, there is no ‘one way’ to consume this – each form offers its own unique value. For instance, its seed oil can protect your hair from free radical and skin cell damage due to its high protein levels. Further, it can hydrate and detoxify your hair and skin with regular use.

Secondly, its leaves can improve immunity, libido, and weight loss. It can further ease headaches and constipation. Alternatively, you may opt for its powdered form as a more convenient form of consumption. Simply add this to nutrition bars, energy drinks, teas and smoothies to get that kick. It also adds in an amazing green hue to your food which makes it all the more exciting!

Here are some other benefits of Moringa which you can reap with regular use.

High Nutrition Levels

Did you know that nearly all parts of the Moringa plant carry benefits? Thus, these are popular ingredients to both herbal medicines and cooking. Nevertheless, the most common parts are the leaves and pods. For instance, African and Indian cooking use this extensively. Alternatively, you may opt for more accessible forms such as a pill or powder.

Moringa is a powerhouse of micro nutrients. It namely contains vitamins A, B2, B6 and C (9%, 11%, 19%, and 12% or ideal daily intake respectively). Further, it contains essential minerals such as iron and magnesium (11% and 8% of ideal daily intake respectively). Unfortunately, it also contains a large amount of anti nutrients. This can reduce mineral and protein absorption levels.

However, be wary of your form of consumption. First, the pods are generally lower in nutrients in comparison to leaves. However, pods are also an ideal source of vitamin C. In fact, one cup of pods (100 grams) 157% of your ideal daily intake. Thus, this is an excellent supplement for oral ailments, such as bleeding gums or scurvy.

Second, capsules are often lower in nutrients. This is because the amount of nutrients it offers are lower than what you receive from a balanced diet with whole foods. Hence, make sure to go for raw or fresh forms as much as you can. Also, mix up your forms of consumption to keep your diet interesting.

High Antioxidant Levels

Antioxidant levels are essential to fighting free radicals. This lowers oxidative stress levels and chronic diseases. Moringa leaves are high in antioxidant compounds, which make it essential to a balanced diet. Further, Moringa leaf extract can reduce oxidation. Thus, many use this to increase the shelf life of meat or as a general food preservative.

This herb contains tow specific types of antioxidants. Firstly, it contains high quercetin levels can help to lower blood pressure. Second, the presence of chlorogenic acid can moderate blood sugar levels after meals. Coffee contains this compound as well. Thus, regular consumption can ward away toxins and improve cardiac health as well.

It’s not just as propagating these benefits. For instance, a study among women finds an increase in blood antioxidant levels on consuming 1.5 teaspoons (7 grams) of leaf powder for 7 months. However, more studies can help to confirm these findings.

Blood Sugar Stabiliser

High blood sugar is one of the primary causes of diabetes. Further, it can cause cardiac ailments such as strokes and heart diseases. Thus, it is vital to keep this within limits. What better way than to manage this than with moringa leaves?

There are a number of animal and plant studies which demonstrates the powerful effects of moringa leaves on blood sugar levels. For instance, one study shows that 30 women consuming Moringa powder (7 grams) saw a decline of 13.5% in their blood sugar levels. Similarly, another study shows that adding just 50 grams of Moringa leaves to a meal can reduce blood sugar rise by 13.5% on average.

Inflammation Reduction

Our bodies naturally responds to infection and injury through inflammation. Over time, this can take a toll on your system. For instance, it may cause chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer. Although many whole foods contain anti-inflammatory properties, these are of varying degrees. Thus, you will need sustained amounts of anti-inflammatory compounds to keep you healthy.

Moringa pods, leaves and seeds contain one of the highest anti-inflammatory levels. Therefore, be sure to cook and consume them as a part of a healthy diet.

Arsenic Toxicity Prevention

Arsenic is a harmful substance which can contaminate food and water. Many studies show that it leads to slow and gradual health deterioration. In fact, it may even cause heart disease and cancer. You never know if your food and water is entirely clean. Thus, many experts advise  a diet which can ward away the harmful effects of such chemicals.

Many studies among mice and rats show that Moringa leaves are protective against arsenic toxicity. It is true that there are not yet any studies which prove this among humans. Nevertheless, including arsenic in your diet can certainly lower risk. Further, be sure to visit your doctor if you suspect serious poisoning or side effects.

Takeaways

Moringa is a fantastic addition to your diet. First, it packs in antioxidants and nutrients. This prevents you from diseases and low immunity. Next, it stabilises blood sugars – thus warding away chances of diabetes. Thirdly, it protects you from the harmful effects of inflammation and arsenic.

Above all, there are a variety of ways you can eat this herb. For example, moringa leaves and powders are a simple ingredient to use in cooking. Alternatively, you can opt for moringa pills as a safe and convenient option.

Click here to check out some Ayurvedic tips for proper digestion. 

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