Moringa: what is it and what is it for

It is very common today that we include food supplements in our diets that are capable of providing us with that energy that we lack. The routine can take a toll on our health and that is why many times we look for quick, economical and healthy solutions that help us to cope with the day to day. It is for this reason that today we have to talk about moringa, a plant that will surprise you with its multiple uses and benefits on the human body .

What is moringa

The moringa oleifera , known scientifically as this plant is also called ‘ miracle tree ‘ since it actually can take almost all parts: from its leaves or fruit to the trunk and bark. However, what is most used are its leaves since they are the area that contains the highest amounts of antioxidants in the entire plant. It is native to India and can reach 8 meters in height. Its cultivation adapts to the tropical climate, which is why it is widespread throughout Latin America and even some politicians in this region have popularized its use and have made it fashionable again in the southern half of the American continent.

The medicinal power of moringa is such that it is almost impossible to describe all its benefits . Its healing properties are related to almost all of our body, and is that it is effective against viruses and fungi, has antidepressant and anti-inflammatory functions , increases the energy level and helps revitalize the skin. These are just some of its many advantages .

What is moringa for?

The various components of the miraculous tree are what make this plant so complete and beneficial for the human body: calcium, proteins, vitamin C, beta-carotene, potassium and a very low amount of fat . This is why its consumption is no longer recommended simply due to tiredness or fatigue , also due to pain or ailments caused by external agents to the body. Among the benefits of this plant, we find:

• • It is a great protector of the epidermis and prevents its oxidation thanks to beta-carotene, a substance with a preventive effect that not only helps our skin , but also the mucous membranes of the human body. In addition, it prevents wrinkles, delays skin aging thanks to its regenerative capacity and the juice of its leaves is used to heal burns or insect bites.

• • Due to its anti-inflammatory properties , it is recommended in people suffering from arthritis, osteoarthritis and diabetes , as well as digestive diseases that have to do with the liver or kidneys. Several studies have shown that moringa not only paralyzes tissue inflammation , but also reverses it.

• • Its consumption comes in handy in patients with cardiovascular diseases or laxative problems , given its low fat content and its eupeptic properties, which promote good digestion . It has also been proven capable of lowering LDL-type cholesterol.

• • The miraculous tree is indicated for all types of allergies , from respiratory to food, and thanks to its antibacterial action it prevents the growth of bacteria within us , such as salmonella.

• • It has been used as an antitumor substance in people with cancer, proving that its bioactive components against tumors inhibit the development of cancer cells in the body .

• • Moringa increases the number of red blood cells in our body, making us feel more energetic and forget about fatigue . In addition, many doctors recommend the raw leaves of this plant in cases of migraines or headaches for its effectiveness.

• The vitamin A naturally present in the miraculous tree strengthens vision , even preventing cataracts.

How to take moringa

Although all parts of this plant are used, not all of them are edible and that is why we must pay attention to this section. However, there are many, many ways to consume it. For example, you can prepare their leaves in a salad as if it were a lettuce, although they can also be crushed and incorporated into smoothies or steamed stews. Another option would be to use it in powder or buy it in pills , as a dietary supplement . It can also be a great idea to use it as a tea, incorporating 10 grams of moringa powder to 250 milliliters of water. If you wonder where to find it, you should know that it can be bought at any herbalist and at a very affordable price.

Moringa contraindications

Despite all the benefits of the miraculous tree, you should know that it is not advisable to abuse this plant too much and nutritionists recommend not consuming it for more than 3 weeks . Likewise, it is contraindicated in pregnant or lactating women since the roots have an abortifacient effect. Among the side effects we can find nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea , as well as a possible loss of sleep. It is also very important to know that the moringa root should not be ingested since it is toxic to the human body, and can cause paralysis or even death in the worst case.