Greetings everyone!!

This is your dietitian, Emmanuella, once again, and today I’m taking you through the nutritional and health benefits of moringa. Here are some of the top health benefits of moringa and creative ways to use it:

1. It’s extremely nutritious

Moringa leaves are one of the most nutrient-dense greens on the planet, packed with protein, essential amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants, with key nutrients like calcium, iron, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium and vitamin C. Overall, moringa is rich in macro- and micronutrients and other bioactive compounds, which are vital for the normal functioning of the body and the prevention of many diseases.

2. It fights against inflammation

Inflammation is a physiological response that happens in the body to protect against infection and restore body tissue injury. Moringa contains inflammation-fighting nutrients, including phytonutrients, antioxidants, and antibacterial compounds. Together, these powerful compounds fight inflammation in the body by targeting free radicals (compounds that damage cells) and, as a result, reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and disease. Two powerful compounds found in moringa are quercetin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, and isothiocyanates, which aid in detoxification and have anti-inflammatory effects. Specific compounds found in moringa may help alleviate low-grade inflammation associated with chronic diseases.

3. It might enhance your sex drive

Did you know that stress can negatively impact sexual function? It can throw libido out of whack by increasing cortisol and decreasing the feel-good hormone, dopamine. Sexual function is a very complex process that involves the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, and muscles, which are very sensitive to stress. Many herbs known to be considered aphrodisiacs have long been used to enhance libido, and moringa is one of them.

4. You’ll feel more energized

If you’re looking for an energy boost that is caffeine-free, you might want to consider moringa in your morning routine. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, especially iron and vitamins C and D, nutrients involved in energy-yielding metabolism. Moringa also contains B vitamins, which help sustain long-term energy and support healthy metabolic processes.

5. It may support cognition and mood

The extract of plants like moringa and its effect on enhancing cognition and mood continue to be extensively studied. Moringa may boost cognition given its amino acid and vitamin profile. It contains tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone. This feel-good hormone works in the reward centres of your brain and improves learning, motor function and memory. You’ll find both vitamins C and E in moringa, potent antioxidants that help reduce oxidative damage to the brain, a major player in the development of some cognitive disorders.

6. It balances blood sugar

This edible plant might keep your blood sugars stable for the better. Moringa is believed to aid in blood sugar balance thanks to its chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates. Chlorogenic acid can potentially control blood sugar levels by regulating the cells uptake or release of blood glucose following a meal. The use of moringa aids in blood sugar balance, with positive effects on fasting blood sugar levels, insulin levels, HbA1c, and overall blood glucose control.

7. It has anti-aging properties

Although there’s no shame in ageing, moringa is packed with antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which may combat premature wrinkles and keep your skin looking youthful. Its compounds have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and have anti-aging benefits for skincare.

8. It may reduce blood pressure

If you struggle with high blood pressure, adding moringa to your diet regularly might make a difference, especially when your routine includes exercise and a nutrient-rich diet. Moringa powder has anti-hypertensive properties because it contains quercetin. This antioxidant decreases oxidative stress on the heart and helps to stabilize blood pressure management systems in the body.

9. It can help with digestion

If you struggle with digestive problems like constipation, the fibre found in moringa may help keep you regular.

10. It may improve cholesterol

Having healthy cholesterol levels is crucial to preventing heart disease. The good news is that moringa has the potential to decrease cholesterol. Moringa helps lower lipids and prevents the buildup of plaques in artery walls, which supports a healthy heart.

Wrapping Up Our Moringa Spotlight

It’s clear why moringa is creating such hype within health circles as the next big superfood! This rapid-growing tree checks every box when it comes to nutrition.

From dried leaves to powdered supplements, moringa offers a bonanza of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds to fight inflammation, energize your days, and boost immunity. No wonder it bears the nickname “miracle tree!

I hope you’ve learned a lot of things about moringa today on agricjournalist.com. Let’s continue exploring the power of plants to uplift our health!

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EllaTheDietitian

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Also read: Meet Kwami Williams, Africa’s Organic Moringa Farming Giant

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