Moringa (Moringa oleifera, Moringaceae) is a small shrub native to northern India, with related species found across other regions of Asia and Africa. Our organic moringa powder comes from Ghana. Moringa is also known as ‘the tree of life,’ ‘mother’s best friend,’ and ‘Africa’s miracle tree’1 — names that clearly show its value and importance as both food and medicine. While we carry the leaf, one of the most amazing things about moringa is that all parts of the plant — leaves, flowers, seeds, bark, pods, tubers and root — can be used, making it an invaluable resource for both sustainability and local economies. It is considered a staple in both Indian and African cuisine, and between the two cultures’ various systems of traditional healing, there are over 300 documented uses for the plant as medicine.1,2
Wellness Benefits of Moringa
Move over, kale! Moringa is considered to be one of the most nutrient-dense plants on the planet: the leaves are rich in amino acids (including all 9 essential amino acids) and contain approximately seven times the vitamin C content of oranges, twice the protein of yogurt per 100g serving, and nearly three times the calcium content of milk per 100g serving.2-4 That’s what we call a nutritional powerhouse. In fact, moringa is so nutrient rich that it’s recommended by several organizations to combat malnutrition — especially in infants, children and individuals with underlying health concerns.1,4
This isn’t moringa’s first rodeo: written accounts of moringa as a medicinal plant date back to around 2,000 BCE in India.2 Traditionally, moringa leaf was used to treat inflammation, as an aphrodisiac, as a galactagogue (promotes the production of breastmilk), for wound healing, to reduce fever and to stabilize blood sugar.1,5 Modern research using the leaf has shown extensive antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, diuretic, immune modulating and antimicrobial benefits as well. 1,5
What it Tastes Like
Moringa has a vegetal, slightly grassy flavor that you might describe as spinach-like. It incorporates nicely into your favorite smoothies, soups or yogurts, and can be used to either replace or enhance your usual greens powder.
How You Can Experience the Benefits of Moringa
Adding moringa leaf powder to your daily fare is an excellent way to make sure you’re getting the crucial vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals (the amazing compounds in plants responsible for health effects) your body needs for optimal functioning. While eating a nutritious diet full of fruits, vegetables and whole grains is the foundation for health and wellness, you know how challenging it can be to eat well during times of stress and busy schedules (or holidays when we’re leaving room for cookies…). Moringa leaf powder can help fill in the gaps nutritionally when we’re not getting all we need from our diet. One of the easiest ways to incorporate moringa powder is by adding between 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon (2-6g) to a smoothie daily or stirring it into your favorite yogurt or morning oats. You can substitute moringa for powdered spinach, kale or other greens in your favorite recipes, and even use it in place of green tea powder for lattes!
Storing moringa powder is incredibly easy. The dried leaf powder is shelf-stable and can last for months when kept properly. We recommend storing your powder in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in a cool, dark, dry place. The pantry or cupboard right next to your favorite protein powder is a perfect spot!
REFERENCES
1. Matic I, Guidi A, Kenzo M, Mattei M, Galgani A. Investigation of medicinal plants traditionally used as dietary supplements: A review on Moringa oleifera. J Public Health Afr. 2018;9(3):841.
2. Gopalakrishnan L, Doriya K, Kumar DS. Moringa oleifera: A review on nutritive importance and its medicinal application. Food Science and Human Wellness. 2016;5(2):49-56.
3. Brilhante RSN, Sales JA, Pereira VS, et al. Research advances on the multiple uses of Moringa oleifera: A sustainable alternative for socially neglected population. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine. 2017;10(7):621-630.
4. Falowo AB, Mukumbo FE, Idamokoro EM, Lorenzo JM, Afolayan AJ, Muchenje V. Multi-functional application of Moringa oleifera Lam. in nutrition and animal food products: A review. Food Res Int. 2018;106:317-334.
5. Anwar F, Latif S, Ashraf M, Gilani AH. Moringa oleifera: a food plant with multiple medicinal uses. Phytother Res. 2007;21(1):17-25.
