The Nutritional and Health Benefits of Moringa Leaves

Moringa is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the Moringaceae family. It’s native to Africa and Asia. There are over 13 species of moringa and all of them thrive in subtropical climates. The plant is cultivated for its highly nutritious fruits and leaves. The leaves are either processed or taken fresh for their many health benefits. In today’s post, we are listing down the amazing health and nutritional benefits of moringa leaves:

Reduces Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Level

In Asia, moringa leaves are traditionally used to treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol. And a 2007 study published in the Phytotherapy Research confirms moringa’s amazing healing abilities. The study suggests that moringa leaves contain plant-based bioactive that stabilizes blood pressure. The bioactive include thiocarbamate glycosides, nitrile and mustard oil glycosides. The same study found that moringa also contains B-sitosterol. This nutrient helps minimize low-density lipoprotein triglycerides and cholesterol in lab animals.

Keeps the Liver Healthy

The liver is the largest organ in the body. It’s also the most abused. The liver works to filter the blood and remove toxins. While the liver can regenerate itself, it’s not impervious to damage. A damaged liver will easily lead to severe medical issues. Moringa leaves help reverse damage and detoxify the liver.

In fact, a 2012 study published in the Indian Journal of Experimental Biology found that moringa leaf extract eliminated any damage caused by a high-fat diet in lab mice. In another study published in Phytotherapy Research, researchers found that moringa leaves contain a special flavonoid called quercetin. This flavonoid helps improve liver function and prevent damages.

Improves Lung Functions

If you suffer from bronchial asthma, we recommend boosting your consumption of powdered moringa seed kernels. A 2008 study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology suggests that moringa leaves help ease bronchial asthma symptoms. Bronchial asthma is a lung disease caused by inflamed airways. The study involved feeding 20 asthmatic patients with 3 grams of powdered or dried moringa seed kernels for three weeks. After the trial, researchers found that the treatment reduced asthma attacks significantly without side effects.

Improves Heart Health

Moringa seeds and leaves are rich in oleic acid. Oleic acid is a type of monounsaturated fatty acid that keeps the cardiovascular system healthy. It’s the same compound that make the Mediterranean diet so healthy. In a 2007 study published in the Alternative Medicine Review found that oleic acid could also prevent certain types of cancer.

Loaded with Essential Nutrients

Moringa leaves and seeds are rich in vitamin A, and C. It’s also loaded with iron. Vitamin A helps improve vision, prevents eye problems and keeps the skin younger-looking. On the other hand, vitamin C protects from oxidative stress, strengthens the immune system and reverses the signs of aging. Iron helps regenerate red blood cells to prevent anemia.

Protects From Infections

A 2010 study published in the issue of Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo found that moringa extracts contain powerful antibacterial properties. Eating moringa leaves helps prevent all types of bacterial infections. It also contains antiseptic and antiviral properties.