Minerals in Moringa

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Minerals in Moringa

Our bodies contain, in various amounts, about 5% minerals. Over 20 minerals are known to be needed  for normal physiology – some in relatively large amounts (known as macroelements), such as calcium, potassium, and phosporus, and others in small amounts (known as macroelements or trace minerals), like iron, copper and zinc. Some believe that we have in our bodies all the minerals of our planet, and they all play a role, although not entirely understood by scientists at this time.

For simplification, minerals have two general functions: building tissues and regulating their function. Almost every process in our bodies is regulated at one level or another by minerals. Consequently, together with proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins, we must ingest a proper amount of minerals for health maintenance.

The human body does not produce minerals; they all must be provided by food!

Macroelements in Moringa

Moringa leaves, pods, flowers, and seeds contain varying amounts of important macroelements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium,phosporus and sodium.

Calcium

Moringa leaves contain high amounts of calcium, about 500 mg per 100g of  leaves, while the leaf powdercan have about five times more calcium per 100g. The daily recommended dose for an adult is about 1,000 mg, with more needed for pregnant or lactating women. Remember, calcium is consumed calcium should equal the amount of calcium excreted.

Calcium is a vital mineral for numerous physiological processes, such as building and maintaining healthy bones and teeth, blood clotting and othervarious cellular functions (maintaining normal heart rhythm and the transmossion of nerve impulses). Almost all the calcium in the human body is stored in the bones and teeth, and when calcium is needed in the blood (for instance, if it is missing from the diet for a while), it is released (borrowed) from bones. This can lead to decalcification of bones if extended over long periods of time. Calcium is important for so many body functions, yet most of us associate calcium only with bone health or disease. Let’s explore the role of calcium in maintaining strong bones.

How Can We Delay or Prevent Osteoporosis?

The answer is by eating edequate amounts of calcium and maximizing bone stores during the time when bone is growing fast-especially up to age 30!

• By exercising regularly.
• By consuming adequate amounts of vitamin K, usually found in green leaves.
• By getting enough vitamin D.

moringa benefits here in tat least two ways; by its high content of calcium and by its good content of vitamin K. But, as we shall see later Moringa, as a plant, may fight osteoporosisin other ways, as well.

Magnesium

Moringa leaves and pods contain another important macroelement, magnesium; approximately 25 mg per 100 g of leaves or pods, while the leaf powder can contain approximately 370mg per the weight.

Magnesium is similar to calcium in several ways; 60% is found in the bones and teeth, and the balance is found mostly in the muscles. Magnesium is the second – most abundant positively charged element found within the cells, where it plays vital roles in the processing of energy.

Amino Acids in Moringa

Plants are an important source of proteins, but most plants actually supply the units making up the proteins – the amino acids. As you know, protein together with lipids and carbohydrates are the three basic groups of biochemical substances of which plant and animal organisms are made. Again, amino acid are the building blocks or monomers of the proteins (which are long chains of amino acids linked together).

How much Protein Do We Need?

Nutrition experts recommended that proteins(or amino acids) should account for 10-15% of the calories in a balanced diet, although requirements for protein are affected by age, health, weight, and other factors. Generally, a normal adult requires approximately 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight, or 0.8 grams per kg weight. That makes a total of 50-80 grams daily. Athletes have hiigher amino acid (protein) requirements, and babies need much more protein per body weight than do adults.

Protein are digested by the gatro-intestinal system and then cut into smaller, simpler units (amino acids) that can be absorbed through the walls of the intestines and used by the body. After absorption, the liver and various tissues will make their own, specifically needed proteins. Thousands and thousands of complicated proteins make up the structure of cell walls, and the soluble particles in blood or less soluble structures of bone and skin. Protein interact with each other specifically recognize each other in order to perform all our physiological functions. Life can be seen as a complicated and beautiful ”dance of proteins”! Since proteins and other nitrogen-containing substances are continuously degraded and rebuilt, they must be replaced by a continuous supply of amino acids from the diet.

There are 20 amino acids present in the human body’s structures. (Actually, in nature there are more amino acids.) Of those, 9 are known to be ESSENTIAL; they have to be supplied by the diet since the human body cannot synthesize them, as it does with the other 11 amino acids. Few foods, like Moringa, are known to contain all essential amino acids, hence, the importance of a complex, rich diet. The 9 essential amino acids are: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. Histidine is considered essential for children and babies, not for adults. Strict vegetarians should ensure that their diet contains sufficient amounts of all these amino acids.

The Main Nutrients in Moringa Oleifera

First we saw the extraordinary benefits and nutritional value of moringa for people living in less fortunate or impoverished areas which are prone to drought. The leaves of Moringa provide many nutrients which can be eaten fresh or dried in a variety of recipes. According to optima of Africa, 25 grams daily of Moringa leaf powder “will give a child the following recommended daily allowances: protein 42%, calcium 125%, magnesium 60%, potassium 41%, iron 71%, vitamin A 272%, vitamin C 22%“. The same benifits apply to adults and senior citizens, but only the percentages chages. Obviously, Moringa is beneficial for people of all ages.

               In terms of protein value, the Moringa leaves are about 40% protein, with all of the 9 essential amino acids present in various amounts. Moringa is considered  to have the highest protein ratio of any plant so far studied on earth!

               Calcium is a vital macroelement for human health. A cup of milk or yogurt could apply 300-400 mg , while 8 ounces of Moringa leaves contain 1,000 mg calcium. Moringa eaf powder of the same weight (8 ounces) contains over 4,000 mg calcium.

               Moringa is very high in iron. Three ounces  (about 100g)  contain 7 mg of iron, while the leaf powder has 28mg.

               Vitamin C, one of the most disputed , talked about and supplemented vitamins, is found i Moringa in large quantities. 100 g of Moringa leaves contain more than 200 mg vitamin C, while 100 g of orange juice has only about 40mg.

The Main Nutritive Group and Valuable Dietary Compound in Moringa

1. Protein costituents or amino acids ( the building blocks of proteins). There are 20 amino acids necessary, and found in human proteins, of which 9 are essential. All 9 are found in Moringa.
2. Carbohydrates (several of the “good“ type, including fibers; about 3-13% in leaves).
3. Minerals as macroelements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosporus, sulfur.
4. Minerals as necessary microelements: iron, zinc, copper, maganese.
5. Fats, as vegetable oils: fatty acids, beneficial omega-6 oils and liposoluble vitamins.
6. Vitamins, many of which with antioxidant properties: vitamin C, E, F, K, provitamin A (beta-carotene), complex of vitamins B, B1, B2, B3, choline, others.
7. Chlorophyll, the green pigment of pants (includes magnesium in its molecules).
8. Other plant pigments, some with antioxidant properties: lutein, carotenoids.
9. Plant hormones with antiaging properties in human: cytokinins such as zeatin.
10. Plant specific (phytochemicals) antioxidants: quercetin, kaempferol and others.
11. Plant specific sterols: beta-sitosterol.

Moringa as Herbal Medicine

Herbal (plant) medicine is the most ancient form of  healthcare known to humankind. Plants as medicines are mentioned in historic documents dating back many thousands of years. Furthermore, many cultures, like Amazonian Indian tribes, with no written languages,  depended on oral communication to convey information and traditions which were also rich in plant stories. Since prehistoric times and continuing to our modern days, people from all over the world have grown or collected plants for the prevention and treatment of diseases. Moringa Oleifera is one of the best examples. People have long known that botanical medicine provided a complete, safe system of healing and prevention of  diseases.

How is Herbal Medicine Working?    How Moringa Working?

Plants produce and contain thousands of chemical compounds that benefit the plant itself. They protect the plant from herbivores or damaging ultraviolet light attract pollinatorsor prevent competitive germination. Below are some examples of  plant chemicals with biological activity in animals:

• Powerful alkaloids with specific actios on animal physiology. Caffeine and morphine are well known alkaloids. Moringa root bark, but not the rest of the plant, contains specific alkaloids such as moringinine, which increase heart and blood vessel tonus.
• Antioxidant compounds reduce the cellular damage inflicted by normal metabolism and living processes in plants, animals, and human. Most plantantioxidants are also anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive, thus delaying aging of tissues, and degenerative diseases. Moringa is known to contain a number of powerful antioxidant flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempfero. Many vitamins in Moringa qualify as potent antioxidants as well: vitamins A, C and E.

Dietary plants are the main source of antioxidant, antiaging substances for humans!

• Vitamins are complex substances vitally important for metabolic and many other physiological reactions. Some of the vitamins (specially, vitamins A, C, E) are also potent antioxidants. Vitamins may considered nutrients but they are also viewed as “medicines“ when they bring the health back into balance,  normalize and regulate the abnormal biologic processes which lead to diseases. Moriga is a powerful vitamin factory; some of those present in the various parts of the pant include vitamin C, beta-carotene (a precursor of vitamin A), vitamin E, vitamin K, and many of the B complex group of vitamins. these are reviewed extensively in the chapter “Moringa, the Nutritive Plant“.
• Antibiotics, antimicrobial and antihelmintic substances. Some of the most powerful antibiotics have been isolated from plants, but plants can also be used in their whole form to fight infections and parasite infestation. This extraordinary effect of plants is especially important whenever the local population cannot afford expensive medicines from pharmacies. Moringa has long been known to have powerful antibiotic effects and was used by various populations around the globe against infections.
• Natural hormones, enzymes, minerals, and various phytochemical (plant-derived substances) with numerous pharmacological activities in animals and humas. These are two numerous to mention, and they go beyond the purpose of this site to talk about their effects on health. Suffice it to say that plants, generally, are an inexhaustible, fantastically useful ad creative source of benificial substances that can be used in many ways to improve human lives, at all levels.

                        Niaziminin, another Moringa phytochemical, was shown to have potent anticancer activity in animal studies. Interestingly, long before research validated the idea, people traditionally have used Moringa against abdominal and other tumors (cancerous growth).

                       Hypotensive (lower blood pressure) principles niazinin, niazimicin, and niaziminin A and B were also obtained from fresh leaves. These compounds belong to the family of mustard-oil glycosides (very rare in nature).

                    One of the most exciting phytochemicals found in Moringa is beta-sitosterol. It has a chemical structure very similar to that of cholesterolin the human blood.Although beta-sitosterolis not well absorbed by the body after ingestions, when consumed with cholesterol it effectively block cholesterol`s absorption.this ultimately  leads to a lower serum cholesterol level. But beta-sitosterol has many other beneficial effects for humans.

              

Moringa News

Newspaper and scientific journals mention Moringa more and more often. Until recently, these tree wasn`t really known in the West, except to botanists. Today, Moringa- the very plant that desperate mothers from tropical countries use to save their malnourished children, is also featured as the exciting ingredient of a fancy skin rejuvenating cream. Researchers fron Autria to Australia, Nicaragua and India, study Moringa`s properties and growth. The National Science Foundation and National Geographic Society, together with other organizations, have started to finance the gathering of a collection of all Moringa species to gather more information about many healthful properties.

The International Eye Foundation is promoting Moringa for the prevention of childhood blindness in poor countries. Indeed, Moringa, through their richness in vitamins,  saves precious eyesight in the most vulnerable victims, children with vitamin A deficiency.

Maybe among all the good news, the most moving stories came from the Senegalese project “Mother and Child Health“. In an effort to combat child death and diseas due to alnourishment, the use of  locally grown Moringa was proposed to infants, their nursing mothers and pregnant women. Although Moringa grows in Africa, Moringa leaves were rarely used as food before.

The Medical staff advised parents to put a little bit of leaf powder in the child`s food for every day. Children were weighed before and after 2-3 months of such a supplement. ( any survived ONLY on Moringa leaves or seed powder!) When the women brought back their children a few months later, they were hardly recognizable! Malnourished mothers who did not produce enough milk for their babies, also recovered beyond all expectations on a Moringa diet.

Profession and Qualities

Moringa is a healer, food magician , beauty and beautician, a plant with surprising water purificatio capabiities, a best fried and humanitarian who works for so little. Moringa is one of the most useful trees on earth, especially in sei- arid and drought-prone areas where it is often grown in countryard gardens.

The amazing thing about the leaves of Moringa is that they grow during the dry season and in times of drought, precisely when most other food growth is limited. the leaves and seeds are high in vitamins A, C, and B1. Moringa makes a major contribution to human and animal health; in many cases, it can mean the difference between life and death. Absolutely no negative effects to daily consumption of Moringa leaves and seeds have ever been reported.

Moringa seeds contain about 35% oil that can be used for cooking, cosmetics and even lubricants. The seeds are often to purify dirty, bacteria-laced water in places where there is nothing else that can be used as such. Moringa seeds are considered to be better than the commonly used water purifier, aluminum sulfate, which is slightly toxic.

Moringa is readily available where it is needed mostt, in regions where clean water is a permanent concern. Moringa represents an economical, viable solution to water purification.

As a healing plant, Moringa is even more amazing. There is much evidence from around the world, from various traditions and cultures that hae used this “Miracle Tree“ for so many ailments and troubles.

The leaves are believed to ave a stabilizing effect on blood pressure and control glucose levels. They are also used to treat anxiety, diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, skin infectons, scurvy, intestinal parasites, and many other conditions.

Moringa Oleifera

Moringa Oleifera is a scientific name of Malunggay. Moringa has its origin in Arabia and India but today it is common all over the tropics, from South Asia to West Africa. Moringa is found in parts of East and South Africa, in many Pacific Islands in South and Central America and…everywhere indoors. 

Moringa is a small, fast- growing shrub or tree that can reach 12 m (36 ft.) in height at maturity and can live for up to 20 years. A short but intese life…a life in the fast lane: Moringa is perhaps the fastest-growing of all trees as it can reach  3 m (9 ft.) in just 10 months after the seed is planted. It has deep roots, ad therefore it can survive in dry regions and a wide-open crown with a single stem.

Moringa does best where the temperature ranges from 25 to 40 degrees C (77 to 104 degrees F) and annual rainfall is at least 500 mm. Moringa grows well from sea level to 1,000 m (3,000 ft.) elevation. Historically, there is evidence that cultivation of Moringa in India dates back  thousands of years, and the traditional Ayurvedic medicine used this tree to heal or prevent hundreds of diseases!

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Moringa Oleifera As briefly mentioned when introducing Moringa, the plant is being used around the world by many cultures for a variety of ailments. It is time now to explore and explain in more detail some of the known and lesser known facts about its medicinal properties, active compounds, and their effects on humans and animals. Let me start with a short introduction on medicinal plants and their importance in human health. Herbal (plants) medicine is the most ancient form of healthcare known to humankind. Plants as medicines are mentioned in historic documents dating back many thousands of years.  Since prehistoric times and continuing to our modern days, people from all over the world have grown or collected plants for the prevention and treatment of diseases. Moringa Oleifera is one of the best examples. People have long known that botanical medicine provided a complete, safe system of healing and prevention of diseases. The Main Nutritive Groups and Valuable Dietary Compounds in Moringa Protein constituents or amino acids ( the building blocks of protein). There are 20 amino acids necessary, and found in human proteins, of which 9 are essential. All 9 are found in Moringa Carbohydrates (several of the ggoodh type, including fibers; about 3-13% in leaves). Minerals as microelements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sulfur. Minerals as necessary microelements: iron, zinc, copper, manganese. Fats, as vegetable oils: fatty acids, beneficial omega-6 oils and liposoluble vitamins. Vitamins, many of which with antioxidant properties: vitamin C, E, F, K, provitamin A(beta-carotene), complex  of vitamins B, B1, B2, B3, choline, others. Chlorophyll, the green pigment of plants (includes magnesium in its molecule). Other plant pigments, some with antioxidant properties: lutein, carotenoids. Plant hormones with anti-aging properties in humans: cytokinins such as zeatin. Plant specific (phytochemicals) antioxidants: quercetin, kaempferol and others. Plant specific sterols: beta-sitosterol. Amino Acids in Moringa Plants are an important source of proteins, but most plants actually supply the units making up the proteins – the amino acids. As you know, proteins together with lipids and carbohydrates are the three basic groups of biochemical substances of which plant and animal organisms are made. Again, amino acids are the building blocks or monomers of the proteins (which are long chains of amino acids linked together). How Much Protein Do We Need? Nutrition experts recommend that proteins (or amino acids) should account for 10-15% of the calories  in a balanced diet, although requirements for protein are affected by age, health, weight, and other factors. Generally, a normal adult requires approximately 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight, or 0.8 grams per kg weight. That makes a total of 50-80 grams daily. Athletes have higher amino acid (protein) requirements, and babies need much more protein per body weight than do adults. Proteins are digested by the gastro-intestinal system and then cut into smaller, simpler units (amino acids) that can be absorbed through the walls of the intestines and used by the body. After absorption, the liver and various tissues will make their own, specifically needed proteins. Thousands and thousands of complicated proteins make up the structure of cell walls, and the soluble particles in blood or less soluble structures of bone and skin. Proteins interact with each other and specifically recognize each other in order to perform all our physiological functions. Life can be seen as a complicated and beautiful gdance of proteinsh! since proteins and other nitrogen-containing substances are continuously degraded and rebuilt, they must be replaced by a continuous supply of amino acids from the diet. There are 20 amino acids present in the human bodyfs structures. (Actually, in nature there are more amino acids). Of those, 9 are known to be ESSENTIAL; they have to be supplied by the diet since the human body cannot synthesize them, as it does with the other 11 amino acids. Few foods, like Moringa, are known to contain all essential amino acid, hence, the importance of a complex, rich diet. The 9 essential amino acids are: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lycine, methonine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. Histidine is considered essential for children and babies, not for adult. Strict vegetarians should ensure that their diet contains sufficient amounts of all these amino acids. Moringa is one of the very few plants that contain all the essential amino acids,although two of them, lysine and tryptophan, are poorly represented in most plants. Moringa's essential amino acids presence and digestibility scores are more than adequate when measured against the standards of World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and United Nations Organization (UNO) for small children, the most at-risk population group when it comes to protein in food.. Essentials Amino Acids Composition in Proteins of Moringa (leaves) and Soy (protein isolate) Essential Amino Acid Soy Protein Mg/g protein FAO/WHO 2-5 year old child Reference Pattern Mg/g protein Moringa Oleifera Extracted Leaves Mg/g protein  Histidine 26 19 31  Isoleucine 49 28 51  Leucine 82 66 98  Lysine 63 58 66  Methionine + Cystine 26 25 21  Phenylalanine + Tyrosine 90 63 105  Threonine 38 34 50  Tryptophan 13 11 21  Valine 50 35 63 Introducing The Essential Amino Acids of Moringa and Briefly Explain Their Importance for Human Health. Histidine - Moringa leaves contain histidine, a semi-essential amino acid - adult generally produce adequate amounts but children usually may not. It is believed that histidine may increase the body’s resistance to environmental toxins and allergens (factors that trigger allergies in susceptible persons). Since histidine found abundantly in hemoglobin - the respiratory pigment protein needed for oxygen transportation to every cell – histidine aids in the prevention of anemia.             Histidine is also a mild vasodilator and helps increase blood circulation. According to some research, people with rheumatoid arthritis have low levels of histidine; therefore it has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A deficiency of histidine can also cause poor of hearing. Since histidine is found in numerous proteins, its presence is needed for normal general physiology. Isoleucine - Moringa contains isoleucine in large amounts. Its main role in the body is related to its incorporation into many proteins and enzymes. This is one of the essential amino acids needed for hemoglobin formation, as is histidine. Therefore, its presence is useful for the prevention or treatment of anemia. Isoleucine plays a role in optimal growth during childhood;babies and children need much more isoleucine per body weight than adults! It also maintains normal blood sugar and energy levels and therefore it is particularly important for diabetics. Isoleucine  is metabolized in muscle tissue and can enhance energy levels and increase endurance. Athletes and everyone exercising regularly need extra isoleucine. Leucine - This is another essential amino acid related to isoleucine and valine, all vital for normal growth in children. Moringa contains large amounts of leucine as well. These three amino acids work together to protect muscles, build muscles, and enhance energy levels and stamina. They also promote bone, skin and muscle tissue healing and therefore are recommended for those recovering from injuries, stress or surgery.Leucine may help to lower elevated blood sugar levels, which is important for diabetics. For normal growth, small children and babies need much more leucine per body weight than adults. Leucine also aids in increasing growth hormone production. Lysine - Lysine is required for normal growth and development in children, who need vast amounts of this amino acids. Although plant sources are usually poor in lysine.Moringa leaves are quite rich in this essential amino acid. Lysine helps calcium absorption and bone development, and maintains proper protein balance. Lysine also aids in the production of antibodies[ protective proteins of the immune system], hormones and enzymes, in skin maintenance and formation, and tissue repair .Since it helps to build muscle protein, lysine is necessary for those recovering from stress, injuries and surgery. In people with “bad” serum fats and high cholesterol, lysine lowers high serum triglyceride levels.             Another useful quality of lysine is its capacity to inhibit the multiplication of viruses, especially herpes viruses. Methionine and Cystine - These are important sulfur-containing amino acids. Cystine is the stable form of the sulfur-containing amino acid cysteine. The body readily converts one into the other as needed, therefore the two forms can be considered as a single amino acid in metabolism. Sulfur-containing amino acids are involved in detoxification of the organism; they help to neutralize and eliminate harmful toxins and protect the body against radiation damage caused by UV rays and x-rays .They are free radical destroyers, and work best when taken with selenium and vitamin E ( see "Antioxidants in Moringa" ). Cystine helps to protect the river and brain from damage due to toxics such as alcohol , drugs, and environmental pollutants.             Methionine and cystine are main constituents of the proteins of fingernails, skin and hair; they promote proper elasticity and texture of the skin and hair. Ladies, real beauty comes from the inside, and sulfurcontaining amino acids must surely be ingredients of any diet that fights skin aging!             Cystine may have anti-inflammatory properties that can be helpful in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Cystine and metheonine are recommended to be supplemented in the treatment of some forms of cancer. These two amino acids also promote wound healing; therefore they are helpful after surgery and burns. They are known to bind iron, aiding in iron absorption. For those interested in losing weight, it is worth mentioning that cystine also promotes the burning of fat and the building of muscle. Phenylalanine and Tyrosine - These two essential amino acids, well represented in Moringa leaves, are particularly important for the health of the central nervous system. Once in the body, phenylalanine can be converted into tyrosine, which in turn is used to synthesize two key brain transmitters that promote alertness: dopamine and norepinephrine. These two amino acids – phenylalanine and tyrosine – can therefore elevate mood, decrease pain, help with memory and even suppress appetite.             Phenylalanine and tyrosine should be supplemented in the treatment of depression, arthritis, obesity and Parkinson’s disease. Phenylalanine is effective for controlling pain, especially the chronic pain in osteoarthritis and rheumatoids arthritis, according to some studies. Similar to other amino acids, these two are incorporated in a variety of proteins throughout the body. Threonine - Threonine is also very well represented in Moringa, although its content is usually low in many grains and other plant protein sources. This amino acid is important for the formation of collagen and elastin, two main proteins of the skin. It also helps to protect the liver and has a lipotropic function (against fatty liver). Threonine is present in high concentrations in the heart, central nervous system and skeletal muscle. It maintains their health and normal functions. It also enhances the immune system by aiding in the production of antibodies, and promotes thymus (a gland vital for the function of the immune system) growth and related activity. Other vital nutrients are also better absorbed when threonine is presen in the food. Some use threonine supplements in certain cases of depression. Infants need much more (8 times) threonine per body weight than adults. Tryptophan- An essential amino acid, tryptophan is required for the production of niacin ( vitamin B3) and serotonin (the neurotransmitter involved in relaxation and sleep) among others. Therefore, tryptophan helps to control depression and insomnia, stabilizes emotional moods, and it also eases perception of pain, and might combat inflammation. It also aids to control hyperactivity in children and alleviates stress. Although tryptophan is the rarest of all amino acids to be found in protein’s composition, it plays an important role in reducing stress-related mood disorders, and helps relaxation and good sleep! We all need some extra tryptophan sometimes! Supplements of tryptophan are not approved in the USA, so, when needed, we have to get it from food. Moringa is an excellent plant source of tryptophan, and its concentration in the leaves exceeds the concentration in soy beans. Since some migraine sufferers have abnormally low levels of tryptophan, it is believed that tryptophan can also ease the pains as sociated with certain types of migraines. Valine - unlike tryptophan, valine has a stimulant effect. It is needed for muscle metabolism and structure, general tissue repair and the maintenance of a high concentrations in muscles, similar to related amino acids, isoleucine and leucine. These three branched-chain amino acids can be used as an energy source by muscle tissue, thus preserving the use of glucose and supplying stamina. Studies have shown that these amino acids are useful in restoring muscle mass in people with liver disease, or after physical stress, injuries and surgery. Moringa leaves are at least as rich (if not more) as soy beans (and soy protein concentrate) in valine. Moringa is one of the very few plant sources that contain all 9 essential amino acids. Moringa’s essential amino acids presence and digestibility are as good as soy (one of the best protein sources). Soy is often a highly processed product while Moringa is presented in its natural state. Moringa’s essential amino acids presence and digestibility are better than those required by the standards of WHO, FAO and UNO. Moringa, even in small portions, provides adequate amounts of protein nutrients for everyone, including healthy or medically compromised individuals, children, senior adults, lactose intolerant individuals, vegetarians and people with soy allergies. Moringa is not genetically modified or altered by humans. Moringa is considered to have the highest protein ratio of any plant so far identified! Comparison of Various Calcium-rich Food Source Food   (100g) Calcium   (mg) Skimmed milk 120 Yogurt, low fat 180 Spinach 130 Cheese 480 Beans 60 Iceberg lettuce 90 Salmon 180 Nuts, seeds 70 Green peas 35 Moringa leaves 440  Moringa has a substancial content of vital macro and microelements such as calcium, iron and sulfur, all absolutely necessary for good health. Humans do not produce minerals, therefore they all must be provided from food. Moringa leaves contain calcium in quantities similar to cheese, and far higher than most plants. Moringa leaves are very rich in iron in comparison with spinach and other plants. Moringa also contains important microelements such as manganese and selenium. Sources of Vitamin B1 Food (100g) Vitamin B1 (mg) Asparagus (boiled) 0.12 Romaine Lettuce 0.11 Tuna (boiled) 0.32 Green peas 0.20 Broccoli (raw) 0.03 Black beans (boiled) 0.20 Carrots (raw) 0.06 Corn (boiled) 0.18 Orange 0.11 Red meat (cooked) 0.15 Soy beans (cooked) 0.12 Moringa leaves 0.21 Moringa leaf powder 2.60 Beta-Carotene Content and Corresponding Vitamin A Equivalents in Various Foods Food Beta-Carotene mg/100g Vitamin A mg/100g Coriander leaves 7,000-8000 1,166-1300 Cabbage 1,300 218 Spinach 3,600 600 Carrot 1,300-2,600 215-430 Mango (ripe) 3000 500 Orange 200 35 Pumpkin 650-700 100-120 Moringa leaves 7,000-8,000 1,166-1,300 Vitamins are absolutely essential for growth and maintenance of a healthy life. Most vitamins are not produced by our bodies, therefore they must be supplied by the diet. Moringa is rich in many vitamins, particularly in vitamin C, provitamin A (beta-carotene) Vitamins B1 and E. these abundant vitamins in Moringa exceed those commonly found in most other plants. Many of the vitamins in Moringa have powerful antioxidant and anti-aging properties. A healthful diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables is the best and safest source of vitamins.

Medicinal uses of Moringa Oleifera (Moringa)

Medicinal uses of Moringa Oleifera (Moringa)

The Moringa root bark is considered bitter, acrid, thermogenic, digestive, carminative, anthelmintic, constipating, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, diuretic, ophthalmic, expectorant and stimulant.

Moringa is used in treating dyspepsia, anorexia, verminosis, diarrhoea, colic, flatulence, paralysis, inflammations, amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, fever, strangury, vesical and renal calculi. It is used in cough, asthma, bronchitis, pectoral diseases, splenomegaly, epilepsy and cardiopathy. 

The root bark and bark of Moringa are used for poor circulation, to increase appetite and stimulate digestive system and also taken as a tonic. Root bark is ground and mixed with salt to form a poultice which is administered for rheumatism and muscular pains, and the bark is considered as antiscorbic. 

Moringa leaves possess anti-inflammatory, anodyne, ophthalmic, anthelmintic properties and they are rich in Vitamin A, C and D. They are useful in scurvy, wounds, tumors, inflammations and helminthasis, act as a general tonic for infants. The leaf of Moringa is 7 times vitamin C of the orange, 4 times Calcium of the milk, 4 times vitamin A of the carrots, 3 times potassium of bananas and 2 times protein of the yoghurt. (All parts of Moringa are available for wholesale)-!

Moringa seeds are used as a water-soluble extract in suspension, leading to the effective natural clarification agent for highly turbid and untreated pathogenic surface water. Such seeds of Moringa make water drinkable as the turbidity and bacteria are reduced, and they are also used in preparation of cakes, and many other bites as a nutritive.  Moringa seed oil is beneficial for hair problems and is widely used in preparing cosmetics.

Moringa seeds are considered acrid, bitter, anodyne, anti-inflammatory,   purgative, antipyretic, and ophthalmic. They are also used in treatment of neuralgia, inflammations, intermittent fevers and opthalmopathy. 

Since those days, Moringa leaves and flowers were being exported from Uganda into India as salads.

According to Indian Herbal System (Ayurveda), a glassful of Morinaga leaf soup serves as much protein as one eating 100 chickens.

 * Moringa soup; a handful of Moringa tender leaves are boiled in a tight lid vessel along with water for minutes, then keep the vessel into cold water so that the soup cools faster, add a pinch of salt, or lime juice for it to taste better and drink.

It is said, if such soup of moringa taken every morning, the body will be protected from getting T.B, anemia, common cold, nervousness, functional sterility, leprosy, mictnutrition, etc. 5-10 grams of powdered Moringa leaves can serve much more better and easier. (All parts of Moringa are available for wholesale)

  * Moringa as a treatment for Cholera, colitis, jaundice and diarrhea; Take 5-10 grams of powdered Moringa leaves along with warm water mixed with honey thrice a day. If possible combine it with coconut juice. 

 *   Moringa as tonic for children; prepare a cupful of moringa fresh leaf juice or 5-10 grams of powdered Moringa leaves, heat it – water bath temperature. Such glass of juice is administered in growing kids as a daily tonic. 

* For high acidity of the urine, myxoedema, toxaemia of pregnant women, dropsy due heart, liver, kidney disorders, hypertension, constipation, excessive thirsty due to diabetes; make a mixture of Moringa leaf powder or fresh leaves, carrot and cucumber juice, warm it to water bath temperature along with a little amount of water and drink 2-3 glasses twice a day.

Moringa contracts uterine muscles, eases child bath, prevents sluggishness, and reduces excessive blood loss and postparmatum complaints if taken by expectant mother (Pregnant women). (All parts of Moringa are available for wholesale)-

    * For poor memory, night blindness, poor hearing, hiccups, vertigo, bleeding piles, indigestion and morning sickness; prepare the juice out of powdered Moringa fruits, add a little amount of honey and take it at bed time. 

    * For syncope; Squeezed juice out of fresh Moringa leaf is used as a nasal drop.

    * For an-Eye allergy; a few drops out of fresh Moringa leaf juice is said to be good. 

    * For Rheumatism, sprains, contusions, scabies; Moringa leaf juice or powder is mixed with sesame oil, then heated till watery content is finished by evaporating. If such preparation is applied externally, it gives a very good effect.  

Moringa root and the bark are also highly beneficial. According to research, it has been confirmed that amorphous base has a very strong sympathomimetic on the sympathetic nerve endings of the entire human nervous system. And so, by stimulating action, it constricts the blood vessels, elevates blood pressure and accelerates heart beats.

The main action on the hearts which is found in the moringa root and bark is due to the direct stimulatory action of cardiac sympathetic nerves, which in turn, causes a slight affection on the myocardium. Researches also revealed that, the armophous base inhibits the tone of the involuntary muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and bronchioles. 

    * So now Moringa bark is used in treating Impotence, premature ejaculation, week semen, and in women, it is used for treating scanty, anemia in young girls, bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory conditions. In a good combinaton with other herbs, such conditions can be treated. 

The mature root paste is applied for palsy, rheumatism, enlargement of spleen, dyspepsia and insect bites. Internally, the root powder is taken for intermittent fevers, paralytic affections, epilepsy and hysteria.

* A poultice of fresh root bark of the young tree is applied externally in treating swellings.

    * For otalgia (earache); fresh juice out of the root-bark is used as an ear drop and also gargled for toothache. 

How to use Moringa leaf powder medicinally?

Moringa leaves possess anti-inflammatory, anodyne, ophthalmic and anthelmintic properties. They are useful in treating scurvy, wounds, tumors, inflammation, helminthiasis, and act as a general tonic for infants, etc. A single dose of Moringa leaves is 7 times vitamin C of the orange, 4 times calcium of the milk, 4 times vitamin A of the carrots, 3 times potassium of bananas and 2 times protein of the yoghurt. 

A glassful of Moringa leaf soup serves as much protein as one eating 100 chickens.

 To prepare Moringa soup using its powdered leaves; add 5-10 grams of leaf powder in a tight lid vessel, pour a half liter of boiling water, close the vessel for some minutes, add a pinch of salt, or lime juice for it to taste and drink. It is said, if such soup is taken every morning, the body will be protected from getting TB, anemia, common cold, nervousness, functional sterility, leprosy, and micturition.

Apart from Moringa being nutritive, it also acts as a curative agent for a number of diseases

Moringa as a treatment for Cholera, colitis, jaundice and diarrhea; take 5-10 grams of powdered Moringa leaves along with warm water mixed with honey thrice a day. If possible combine it with coconut juice.

For high acidity of the urine, myxoedema, toxaemia of pregnant women, dropsy due heart, liver and kidney disorders, hypertension, constipation, excessive thirsty due to diabetes; make a mixture of Moringa leaf powder, carrot and cucumber juice, add a little amount of clean water, warm it a bit and drink 2-3 glasses twice a day.

Moringa contracts uterine muscles, eases child birth, prevents sluggishness, and reduces excessive blood loss and postpartum complaints if taken by expectant mother (Pregnant women).

For poor memory, night blindness, poor hearing, hiccups, vertigo, bleeding piles, indigestion and morning sickness; prepare the juice out of fresh or powdered Moringa fruits, add a little amount of honey and take it at bed time.

For syncope; squeezed juice out of fresh Moringa leaf is used as a nasal drop.

For an-eye allergy; a few drops out of fresh Moringa leaf juice is said to be good.

For rheumatism, sprains, contusions, scabies; Moringa leaf juice or powder is mixed with sesame oil, then heated till watery content is finished by evaporating. If such preparation is applied externally, it gives relief.

Moringa as tonic for children; boil a cupful of milk or water, add 3-5 grams of powdered Moringa leaves, heat well and serve the child when it cools to room temperature. Such preparation is administered in growing kids as a daily tonic.