It’s scientific name is Moringa oleifera, but this plant that is native to North India is also called Moringa, ben oil tree, radish tree, or drumstick tree. This is a plant that has thousands of years’ worth of praise due to the many health benefits that it provides. Through the years, scientists have really only investigated a portion of the reported health benefits provided by this miracle plant.
1. High in antioxidants
Antioxidants are the compounds that are responsible for ridding the body of free radicals. When free radicals are present in high numbers, this can lead to such chronic diseases as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Moringa provides antioxidants like beta-carotene, Vitamin C, Chlorogenic acid, and Quercetin.
2. Improves overall gut health
Ulcers, gastritis, and gastric cancer are all byproducts of H. pylori—a bacteria that can be fought with the anti-bacterial properties of Moringa.
3. Loaded with nutrients
Moringa leaves contain protein, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin A, and B2 (Riboflavin).
4. May reduce inflammation
The body’s natural response to an injury or infection is inflammation. This is an essential protective mechanism, but when it goes on for long periods of time, it can lead to major health issues like heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. Thanks to the isothiocyanates, Moringa seeds, pods, and leaves provide anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Helps digestion
The high fiber content of Moringa helps clean your gut of all the extra stuff that is left over from a diet that is high in grease.
6. Has ability to lower blood sugar levels
High blood sugar levels is a gateway to not only diabetes, but other problems like heart disease, so prevention is key. Animal studies have shown that Moringa helps lower blood sugar levels. All thanks to the compound found in Moringa called isothiocyanates.
7. Helps protect against arsenic toxicity
Many parts of the world deal with contamination of their food and water, rice particularly. Though symptoms of toxicity won’t be shown right away, long-term exposure will lead to health problems like cancer or heart disease.
8. Can lower your cholesterol
High cholesterol has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Moringa has been shown to reduce cholesterol in a way that is similar to almonds, oats, and flax seeds.
9. Protects against tumors and cancer
Thanks in part to a compound called niazimicin, studies have shown that Moringa leaves possess properties that can prevent tumor and cancer activity in the body.
10. Can purify water
A protein found in the Moringa plant has the ability to bind with impurities found in water, which causes them to congeal and cluster and can be separated from the water. The sheer knowledge of this will revolutionize access to safe drinking water. If it has the ability to do this, imagine what it can do for your body.
Source: https://www.lifehack.org