Meet Moringa
The nutrient-packed “miracle tree” that is native to parts of Africa and Asia. Though Moringa has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, due to its impressive nutritional profile and medicinal benefits, its big popularity among western superfood enthusiasts is relatively new. Wondering what the hype is all about? Keep reading...
What is Moringa good for?
Known for being one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, containing as much as 92 nutritions & 46 antioxidants, moringa can contribute to everything from better vision and immunity to bone health and skin radiance. With that being said, here are three important health benefits you get from the powerhouse Moringa:
Energy and vitality
The moringa leaves are packed with protein and serve as a great natural energy booster for active people, despite the fact that it's caffeine-free. The leaves contain all 9 of the essential amino acids, and are considered a complete protein, which is very rare for a plant. The amino acids are necessary for muscle repair, energy production, and mood regulation. Moringa is also a great source of B vitamins and iron (it contains roughly 3x more iron than kale), both of which provide energy and help to reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue.
Immunity booster
Antioxidants play an important role in fighting off free radicals that cause oxidative stress, which in turn can trigger a number of human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, stroke, alzheimer's etc. Moringa contains a high level of antioxidants (around 6x more than goji berries), including vitamins C, E, and A, which makes it a great booster for our immune system, as well as our brain. Believe it or not, but the moringa leaves are more concentrated in vitamin C than oranges.
Digestion & Beauty
We all know beauty starts from within, or more specifically from the gut. And what is your guts best friend? Fiber. The fact that moringa contains around 30% fiber makes it promote a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn lowers inflammation. Not only is this good for our digestion, but for the skin as well. The high levels of vitamin A combined with the anti-inflammatory properties makes the moringa leaves serve as a super potent digestion and beauty aid.
How to use it
The leaves are the most popular part of the plant. They can be eaten whole but more commonly you’ll find moringa available in a dried powdered form. You can sprinkle the powder into water, smoothies, and juices or add it to soups, stews or salads. The flavour is earthy and grassy, reminiscent of matcha or a peppery green tea.