What is Moringa Good For? What are the Benefits of Moringa Powder?

Here’s some science behind the benefits of this Ayurvedic superhero.

Moringa leaves and moringa powder are known for their therapeutic properties

Treasured in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for its power to heal numerous ailments, moringa (Moringa oleifera) is a tropical plant boasting more than 90 beneficial compounds.

Moringa leaves and seeds are ground into a powder and either consumed directly or used in cooking — it’s the supplement that could drive significant health benefits in your life this season. Below are a few significant ones.

Balances Hormones

When researchers explored the impact of moringa consumption on menopausal women, their findings were compelling. They discovered the plant was able to lower oxidative stress and balance hormones naturally. These benefits were also tied to a slower ageing process and higher libido.

Reduces Inflammation

Moringa is rich in essential amino acids, phytonutrients, antioxidants, and antibacterial compounds — these all work to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that fuels rapid ageing and disease. Moringa reduces the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes and hypertension.

Nourishes Your Skin

Moringa has traditionally been used to soothe and support the skin — boosting its moisture levels, speeding up its healing processes and managing the signs of ageing.

That’s because the oil from its seeds is packed with natural antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Apply this oil directly to the skin to treat issues like athlete’s foot, acne and wounds.

Improves Digestion

Digestive support is another traditional use for moringa. Because its leaves are so rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it has a beneficial influence on the body’s ability to break down food.

It also restores the balance of good gut microbes and aids in weight loss. Ayurvedic practitioners have long used the plant to treat conditions like ulcers. It is also thought to have a detoxifying effect on the liver.

Boosts Your Mood

Because moringa is high in the amino acid tryptophan, it has significant brain benefits. This includes support for neurotransmitters like serotonin, the “happy” hormone, that helps manage stress, depression and anxiety.

Plus, its other beneficial compounds improve thyroid health, which is linked to maintaining good energy levels and stable, positive moods.

The easiest way to reap all the benefits of this #FunctionalFood is by consuming moringa powder. Moringa powder is made by processing moringa leaves and has a neutral taste and texture. It goes well with green smoothies and can be added to homemade creamy dips, bread or baked goods, herbal tea blends… the possibilities are endless!

Moringa seeds, seed oil, fresh leaves, stems and pods have proven medicinal benefits too. Try adding them to your recipes and skin/hair care routine for the best results.

References

1. Effect of supplementation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera) and amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) leaves powder on antioxidant profile and oxidative status among postmenopausal women J Food Sci Technol 51, 3464–3469 (2014).
2. 10 Powerful Health Benefits Of Moringa Powder + How To Use It
3. Health Benefits of Uses and Applications of Moringa oleifera in Bakery Products Plants (Basel). 2021 Feb; 10(2): 318.
4. 6 Science-Based Health Benefits of Moringa oleifera
5. Moringa oleifera: a food plant with multiple medicinal uses Phytother Res. 2007 Jan;21(1):17–25
6. Enhancement of human skin facial revitalization by moringa leaf extract cream Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2014 May; 31(2): 71–76.
7. 5 Benefits Of Moringa For Skin + How To Make A DIY Mask At Home For Glowing Skin
8. Investigating of Moringa Oleifera Role on Gut Microbiota Composition and Inflammation Associated with Obesity Following High Fat Diet Feeding Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2018 Aug 20; 6(8): 1359–1364
9. 10 Powerful Health Benefits Of Moringa Powder + How To Use It
10. Evaluation of the antidepressant activity of Moringa oleifera alone and in combination with fluoxetine J Ayurveda Integr Med. 2015 Oct-Dec; 6(4): 273–279.
11. A review of properties, nutritional and pharmaceutical applications of Moringa oleifera: integrative approach on conventional and traditional Asian medicine ADV TRADIT MED (ADTM). 2020 Aug 17 : 1–21.