You’ve probably already discovered moringa while browsing the isles of an online health food store. Maybe you heard about it reading through the articles section on your favorite nutrition website? This superfood is a rising trend that’s causing a stir in the health and nutrition community.
Moringa oleifera is otherwise known as the ben tree, horseradish tree or drumstick tree. It originates in the dry, warm climates of Africa, Pakistan, and India. Locals use the dried, crushed leaves as a natural treatment for a variety of health disorders.
The leaves, bark, pods, flowers, and seeds contain potent polyphenol antioxidants. These compounds benefit the cardiovascular, and skeletal system, as well as the vital organs when consumed as part of a healthy diet.
Fortunately, you don’t have to travel to India to get moringa. The crushed leaves are readily available as a powder supplement at your local health food store and online retailers.
Here are 11-mind-blowing benefits of moringa. Add a serving to your daily diet and reap the health benefits.
1. Super-Nutrition for Your Body
Moringa is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The crushed leaves contain vitamins B6, B2, Vitamin A, and C, as well as non-heme iron, magnesium, and plant-based protein. Locals in India and Nepal eat the leaves raw and slice the pods for additional nutrition in meals.
The pods are an excellent source of vitamin C, with one cup providing more than 157-percent of your requirement for the nutrient. In Western countries, moringa is available in powder form.
The crushed leaves have a slightly bitter taste, so it’s best to disguise it with other foods. You can add a tablespoon to your morning kale shake to take advantage of the nutritional value of this superfood.
Along with the vitamins and minerals, moringa leaves come packed with polyphenol flavonoids, carotenes, tocopherols, and phenolic acids. These micronutrients have a host of health benefits. There’s convincing nutritional research backing up their ability to assist the body in a range of metabolic functions
