Miracle Health Tree: Extraordinary Benefits of Moringa

What is Moringa? It’s not a Dance, but it is an amazing tree from India, Asia, Africa, South America and now in Florida. Its scientific name is Moringa oleifera.  It’s been called many things in the past including: drumstick tree, the miracle tree, the ben oil tree, or the horseradish tree. It has been used medicinally for centuries mostly overseas, but is becoming more popular here in the US through increased recommendation from holistic practitioners and through marketing efforts by entrepreneurs.

It has many healthcare benefits due to it’s amazing broad spectrum of properties including: anti-oxidant, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-depressant. As with most natural substances being used more and more for healthcare, it has almost no side-effects, and is low in fat.

We have found 140 studies on Moringa-- some on humans, but mostly on animals. Clinical evidence is strong, i.e. enormous patient reporting of satisfactory outcomes for the following conditions is overwhelmingly positive. It has been used for many decades both in the US and abroad as a natural remedy with broad spectrum utilization and satisfaction.

This author and this publication make no claims as to its efficacy, but rather are reporting on both published and private reports. Like all nutritional supplements the FDA does not regulate Moringa.

Moringa contains a host of standard nutritional compounds such as:

• vitamin A
• vitamin B1 (thiamine)
• B2 (riboflavin)
• B3 (niacin), B-6
• folate
• ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
• calcium
• iron
• magnesium
• phosphorus
• potassium
• zinc

According to research some of the most common properties and uses for Moringa are:

1. Anti-Oxidant: almost all plant based nutrition, vitamins, and minerals have varying degrees of Oxidative reduction properties; some more than others. So it is with Moringa … it is a very potent anti-oxidant, therefore it is listed as such in almost all of the benefits below. However, that is not its only benefit as will be demonstrated.

1. Anti-inflammatory: It helps to decrease swelling and edema, which is the primary cause of pain. Low level inflammation within the body can be the cause for many chronic long-term conditions such as arthritis, cardio-vascular problems, stomach and bowel issues. It has praised by users as an anti-inflammatory for arthritis.

1. Anti-bacterial antifungal, and antimicrobial properties are beneficial to all humans as we are assaulted by pathogens by our surroundings and environment, in particular: salmonella, Rhizopus, and  coli. 

1. Liver protection: While a very strong organ, the liver can suffer long term damage from trauma and toxins. Moringa had detoxification properties that help with improved liver health.

1. Not unlike Aloe Vera’s renowned gastro-intestinal benefits, Moringa seems to be very powerful at helping to correct problems in the stomach and bowel including, but not limited to: constipation, diarrhea, gastritis, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome. It’s high vitamin B content along with its anti-biotic properties help beat various bad bacteria in the gut.

1. As an anti-depressant Moringa has been useful for anxiety, depression and fatigue.

1. Moringa contains niazimicin, an alleged cancer suppressing compound.

1. Moringa Oil is extremely good for hair and skin for moisturizing.

1. Wounds cuts, and sore, respond well to its anti-bacterial nature.

1. Cardiovascular protection is delivered through its anti-oxidant properties and blood pressure may be improved due to compounds that reduce arterial thickening.

1. According to studies, Moringa may reduce blood glucose levels as well as protein and sugar in the urine, therefore helping to maintain better blood sugar levels in diabetics.

1. Weight loss: It has been shown to reduce weight gain in mice, which may be due to improved digestion from large vitamin B concentrations. Improved digestion converts more food into energy instead of fat.

1. Asthma and other lung disorders seem to respond well to Moringa, anti-inflammatory reduction of constrictions and overall function.

1. As a kidney protector it works to reduce kidney stones, and toxicity, and as an anti-oxidant.

1. Improved eyesight has been prevalent as it has a tendency to reduce blood vessel dilation and disfunction in the retina, and prevent capillary membrane thickening.

1. Sickle cell anemia may be reduced by its tendency to improve iron absorption thereby increasing red blood cell count.

As with most nutritional supplements, while side effects are low, too much of anything could cause a problem. Be sure to follow directions on the label for proper dosing. Always check with a doctor before taking supplements to insure there will not be a negative reaction with any medications you may currently be taking.

If you are pregnant or plan on getting Pregnant do not use Moringa.

Known medication interactions:

1. Diabetic meds. Due to Moringa’s tendency to lower blood sugar, one should monitor sugar levels very closely once or twice a day to avoid damaging low blood sugar. Consult with your doctor for reduction of medication while on Moringa.
2. Likewise, with blood pressure decreases seen with Moringa monitor very closely 1-2 times a day to avoid low blood pressure.
3. Thyroid medication: Levothyroxine should be monitored closely as Moringa usually improves thyroid functioning.