The Health Food Industry’s Best Kept Secret

We all want to feel better and live longer.
 Yet we’re constantly being bombarded with conflicting advice regarding health and wellbeing. Fad diets often lead to weight gain. Contemporary therapies may prove costly, inefficient and inconvenient. Isn’t it about time we all hit upon something simple, affordable and effective? Isn’t it about time we found something nourishing and natural, something which actually works?

The answer may be found in Moringa – a lush, flowering plant that has been celebrated in the subtropics for centuries. According to Indian charity Trees for Life, Moringa contains 7 times as much vitamin C as the same quantity of oranges, 4 times more vitamin A than carrots, 4 times as much calcium as is found in fresh cows’ milk and 3 times more potassium than is present in ripe bananas.  In 2008, Moringa was even named “plant of the year” by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), who advocate its use as a nutritional supplement.

But if it’s so good, why haven’t you heard of it? 

Why you’re unlikely to have heard of Moringa
The reason you may not have heard of Moringa is directly related to its health-giving properties. As well as a high nutritional content, Moringa boasts an impressive array of medicinal uses, and has been used in the subcontinent to treat a variety of common ailments for centuries. In Pakistan and India, for example, Moringa is considered one of the richest sources of nutrients often lacking in people’s diets, and consuming it is said to support heart health, weight management and promote better eyesight.

Since the sale of vitamins and supplements is big business, when it comes to Moringa, the pharmaceutical industry is keen to keep you in the dark. Yet for twenty years, The World Health Organisation (WHO) has been studying and using Moringa as low cost health enhancer in some of the world’s poorest nations, and in April 2008, according to its own website, WHO staged an event in France entitled “Moringa, the Life Tree”, which sought to promote the production and consumption of this miracle plant. Today, Moringa is taken by world class athletes, who happily ingest large doses in order to maintain clarity and focus as well as gain energy.

Give your body what it needs
As top athletes are well aware, if you want your body to function at its peak, you need to fuel it with the vitamins and nutrients it requires.
Since many of us depend upon convenience and processed foods, we’re not always imbibing the vitamins and nutrients our bodies need to thrive. Poor nutrition can diminish our ability to fight off illness and infection, as well as leaving us feeling sluggish and unfocussed. Simply put, if you want to feel and look healthier, you need to make sure you’re ingesting the sorts of foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, nutrients and antioxidants, foods like Moringa.

What you need to know about Moringa 
Moringa is unusually nutrient dense and every part of the Moringa plant – its leaves, roots, stem, and bark – can be used, be it to support milk production among breastfeeding mothers (WHO), to help balance an individual’s sugar levels, to aid kidney and liver function, or to beautify the hair and skin.
Traditionally, Moringa has also been prized for its antibiotic properties, and has been used around the globe to help counter infection and illness. Long before scientists began researching this nutrient-dense, tropical plant, the benefits of Moringa were known by those who grew and consumed “the miracle tree” and passed on knowledge of its healing properties.

Today, both federal health agencies and three non-governmental charities, Trees for Life, Church World Service and Educational Concerns for Hunger Organisation, promote Moringa as “natural nutrition”.
Rich in antioxidants, and free from any known side effects, Moringa can be eaten fresh, in soups and stews. However, the majority of UK Moringa devotees (of which there are a growing number) favour supplements, seeds and powders, which are more readily available and boast a longer shelf life.
Moringa oil’s soothing, softening qualities also make it an important ingredient in many soaps and body oils, which can be applied daily for smoother, more younger-looking skin.

Why Ankh Rah Supplements?
Committed to producing Moringa supplements of the highest quality, Ankh Rah’s high quality Moringa leaf powder was awarded “The Best New Product Award” at the Natural Lifestyle Product awards in 2013. Reacting to its victory, Ankh Rah remarked: "This makes all the hard work of promoting a genuine and new product to independent health food stores worthwhile." Ankh Rah is also among the finalists of the London Business Awards, the winner of which will be announced at a gala event in June 2014.
So, if you haven't sampled Ankh Rah’s award-winning Moringa products yet, what are you waiting for?
Help to boost your energy levels, improve your eyesight, refresh your skin and much, much more. Just check out the product range at ankhrah.com today.

How to Drink Moringa for Mental Clarity

How to Drink Moringa Leaf Powder for Mental Clarity

Moringa Leaf Powder

Health Benefits Moringa

Check out twenty medical uses and benefits of the latest food trend, Moringa as the health benefits are tantalizing and every part of the Moringa tree can be used in medical science.

Moringa oleifera has an impressive range of medicinal uses with high nutritional value and medicinal benefits as different parts of Moringa contain a profile of important minerals and are a good source of protein, vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids and various phenolics.

Moringa provides a rich and rare combination of zeatin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol.

It may act as cardiac and circulatory stimulants, possess antitumor, antipyretic, antiepileptic, antiinflammatory, antiulcer, antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antifungal activities, and are being employed for the treatment of different ailments in the indigenous system of medicine.

Traditional cultures in various parts of the world have long used Moringa in their herbal medicine repertoire for ailments ranging from gout to various inflammations and fevers.

Here are some of the traditional, medical uses of moringa:

1. Normalizes blood sugar.
2. Appetite supplement.
3. Heal wounds and injuries- There is an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effect when applied to wounds, thereby aiding the fast healing of wounds.
4. Detoxification.
5. Eliminate constipation.
6. Reduce risk of ulcer- Moringa tea treats gastric ulcers and prevents.
7. Improves digestion.
8. Serves as nutrition for infants- six months and older, pregnant and nursing mothers, flower juice improves the quality and flow of mothers’ milk when breast feeding.
9. Increases mental clarity.
10. Stimulates hair growth.
11. Enhances skin health.
12. Reduces wrinkles and age lines.
13. Prevents tumor.
14. Increases energy and endurance.
15. Improves eyesight.
16. Normalizes blood pressure.
17. Acts as anti- depressant.
18. Strengthens immune system- In Haiti, villagers boil Moringa flowers in water and drink the tea as a powerful cold remedy.
19. Can be used as an aphrodisiac and promoter of libido- The drumstick seeds are used as a sexual virility drug for treating erectile dysfunction in men and also in women for prolonging sexual activity.
20. Prevents fungal diseases.
21. Moringa leaves treat fevers, bronchitis, eye and ear infections, inflammation of the mucus membrane
22. The powder ground from the seeds is also used in the treatment of scurvy skin diseases (common bacterial infections of the skin).

Every single part of the Moringa Tree is useful, this is why it is considered one of the most valuable and useful plants.

http://pulse.ng/wellness/health-benefits-moringa-id3604124.html

Heard of Moringa? It's an herb that helps milk supply.

For any new mother who wants to do the best for her baby, breastfeeding can easily provide many benefits. However, some women have problems producing enough milk throughout the breastfeeding years. There can be causes for low milk supply such as being under stress or having some types of hormonal imbalances. Other causes can be having duct milk damage from previous surgeries, smoking, or even getting pregnant again while nursing.  When these possible causes can be ruled out, Moringa can be an option to help increase breast milk flow.

The Moringa tree was first referenced around 2000 B.C. when it was used by people in Northern India. It was believed the tree had medicinal benefits and was able to prevent over 300 diseases. This tree was also used for various reason by the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians as both protection from the hot sun and as a lotion. Maurian warriors of India ate the leaves believing they had the power to increase their strength and stamina. 

Although the Moringa tree is native to the Northern part of India, it is now found in many areas of the world including Central and South America, Africa and Asia in tropical and sub-tropical climates. This tree can grow up to 12 meters high and has drooping branches on which there are small leaves that contain an incredible powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It grows best in sandy or dry soil with bright sunshine, but cannot tolerate excessive flooding or soil with little drainage. The tree needs little water, making it a valuable commodity in drier climates.    

The Moringa tree has many uses including: food for humans and forage for livestock, medicine, dye, water purification, and can also help to increase flow of breast milk in lactating women, as has been proven in studies. The leaves of the tree are full of vitamins and minerals which contain:

* 7 times the Vitamin C content of oranges

* 4 times the calcium content of milk

* 4 times the vitamin content of carrots

* 3 times the potassium content of bananas

* 2 times the protein found in yogurt

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol Committee did a study to find out how Moringa effects the rate of milk flow in lactating mothers. Two groups of mothers were given breast pumps and asked to pump every four hours. One group was given the supplement and the other was not. The mothers in the study were asked to write down how much milk was produced each time they pumped over a three day period. The results came back showing that the mothers who had used the Moringa supplement produced more milk overall than those mothers who didn’t use the supplement.

In another such study, the same results were found. Mothers were asked to measure their breast milk production on the third, seventh, and fourteenth day of production. Although all mothers had about the same results on the third day, the mothers taking a Moringa supplement had increased production on the seventh and fourteenth days when compared to those who didn’t take a supplement. These promising results will most likely lead to even more studies showing the efficacy of the supplement on lactating women.

For any mother who struggles with not producing enough milk, the Moringa supplement may be just what she and her baby needs. There are no ill side effects and a good variety of vitamins and minerals come from it. According to both studies done, it may be beneficial for a mother to begin taking the supplement as soon as she gives birth, enabling her milk flow to increase by the third day after birth.

http://www.divine-mama.com/blogs/mamahood/8242759-heard-of-moringa-its-an-herb-that-helps-milk-supply

Moringa Leaf Powder for Eyesight

Moringa Leaf Powder for Eyesight

With a large amount of beta-carotene your eyesight is just one of the many benefits you may gain from Ankh Rah's Award Winning High Quality Moringa.  

Moringa: A superfood packed with nutrients that you must try

 

Did you know that if all the people around the world ate the leaves of this plant, we would not suffer from anemia? I mean Moringa, also known as the miracle tree, a small plant native to India widely used in the rest of Asia and Africa too. Each of the parts of this plant has a unique benefit that makes it essential for good health. This tree can survive even the harshest climates. Some people call it the "tree of life" and when you discover all its benefits, will agree with this nickname.

1. Has countless nutrients.
Studies have shown that just one ounce of this plant contains more vitamin A than carrots, more iron than spinach, more calcium than milk, more potassium than bananas and more vitamin C than oranges. Also contains vitamin B. It is also said to be an excellent source of essential amino acids. Regarding minerals containing calcium, potassium, sulfur, iron, selenium, magnesium, zinc, copper phosphide. Furthermore, it is rich in choline and essential fatty acids. This tree is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and enzymes, call it a it is simply an understatement food. Moringa is a true superfood.

2. It is antibacterial and antifungal.
 The extract from the leaves and seeds of the tree contain a compound that prevents the growth and proliferation of microorganisms such as E. coli, Enterobacter aerogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, the seeds can be used to purify water.

3. Delays aging
. Moringa contains over 36 antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Zeatin also contains a cytokinin that slows the aging process. It is also a powerful antioxidant that suppresses the growth of cancer cells. Moringa contains high amounts of lutein which prevents has macular degeneration and caffeoylquinic acid which is a choleretic and diuretic. It also protects the liver from hepatitis and other diseases.

Some of the other antioxidants in the leaves include rutin, quercetin, xanthines, alpha carotene and kaempferol.

4. Protect the heart. Studies and research have shown that Moringa is very effective in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. Its reducing effect on blood pressure can be attributed to compounds such as nitrite and glycosides. Even contain a bioactive compound, known as B-sitosterol which maintains cholesterol balance. Beta-sitosterol also prevents prostate enlargement, and contains several anti-inflammatory properties. Reduce LDL and triglycerides.

5. Take care of your liver.
 Moringa leaves contain a compound called quercetin which has been shown reverses liver damage induced by high consumption of foods rich in fat and high protein. Moringa also eliminates the accumulation of fat in the liver and prevent insulin resistance. Containing chlorophyll, detoxifies our body and supports the optimal functioning of our liver.

How do you eat?

The can be eaten raw or you can cook. You can even make tea with leaves. Dried Moringa leaves can be crushed and stored as a spice for years without risking the loss of nutrients. Young green beans of the tree, can be prepared as asparagus, but the most mature pods are harder and must be cooked, and then the inner fiber is extracted. It is recommended to eat raw leaves to get the most nutrients.

Add Comment 
And you, have you ever tried moringa?

About the author
Ingrid is a holistic health coach, personal trainer, motivator fitness, and wellness author. After finding the key to losing 50 pounds in 90 days, she wants to share how she did it With Her free course 9 Simple Secrets I Used to Melt Away 50 Pounds.
http://quemas.mamaslatinas.com/health_fitness/129823/moringa_un_super_alimento_lleno

30 Amazing Benefits Of Moringa Plant For Skin, Hair And Health

by Drew Canole

Drumsticks are an integral part of the delicious sambhar and other South Indian delicacies. It has a unique taste and texture. You would be surprised to know that the drumstick tree or moringa tree is highly beneficial for the human body. Astonishingly all its parts are edible as well.

Drumsticks are an integral part of the delicious sambhar and other South Indian delicacies. It has a unique taste and texture. You would be surprised to know that the drumstick tree or moringa tree is highly beneficial for the human body. Astonishingly all its parts are edible as well.

Let’s delve deep into the secrets of the moringa plant and identify the benefits.

What is the Moringa Tree?

• The miracle tree Moringa is a multipurpose that is native to parts of Africa and Asia. It is also called drumstick tree by the British and Malunggay in Philippines
• In India, it is found on the foothills of the Himalayan mountains. This plant belongs to the family Moringaceae. It derives its name from the Malayalam word, ‘Muringa’. It is a multipurpose plant and its leaves, pods, fruits, flowers, roots and bark are beneficial in one way or the other.

cc licensed ( BY ) flickr photo shared by Trees ForTheFuture

• The moringa tree grows easily in semi-arid, tropical and sub-tropical climate and is reported to be beneficial for human beings as its various parts are edible.
• Some of the most commonly used parts are moringa leaves and seeds. Moringa seeds and roots are used to extract oil and the flowers can be cooked and eaten.
• Apart from these, its bark, sap, seeds, oil, leaves, roots and flowers are used in making traditional medicine in many countries.

 Health Benefits Of Moringa:

The most amazing thing about moringa is that all parts of this plant including its bark, roots, leaves, flowers, seeds, sap and pods are a storehouse of nutrients and antioxidants. Thus, this plant possesses innumerable health benefits and has the capacity of curing several diseases. For this reason, it is referred to as the ‘miracle tree’ and is widely used in traditional medicine. The various health benefits of moringa are as follows.

1. The seeds of moringa contain 40 percent edible oil known as Ben oil. This clear, sweet and odourless oil is rich in antioxidants and is similar to olive oil in terms of its nutritional profile.It has an indefinite shelf life as it does not turn rancid like other oils.

2. Moringa leaves are the most widely used parts of this plant. These leaves are edible. They contain three times more iron than spinach.

3. Moringa contains all the essential amino acids needed by the body. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins which are needed to grow, repair and maintain cells. Human body manufactures 10 to 12 amino acids. The remaining 8 amino acids are known as the essential amino acids which should be provided from everyday diet and moringa contains all of them. The list of essential amino acids and their benefits are given below. 

ISOLEUCINE
Helps in building protein and enzymes and creation of biochemical components within the body.
LEUCINE
Builds protein and enzymes along with isoleucine to enhance body’s energy and alertness.
LYSINE
Ensures the absorption of right amount of calcium by the body and aids in collagen formation and production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. Maintains the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth.
METHEONINE
Provides sulphur to the body and prevents hair, skin and nail problems. Lowers cholesterol levels by increasing liver’s production of lecithin. Helps in reducing liver fat and bladder irritation.
PHENYLALAINE
Production of chemicals required to transmit signals between nerve cells and brain, thus reducing hunger pains. It also improves memory.
THREONINE
Forms an important part of collagen, elastin and enamel proteins. Assists metabolism, prevents fat build up in the liver and boosts digestive and intestinal tracts.
TRYTOHYAN
Supports the immune system and alleviates insomnia. Reduction of anxiety, depression and migraine symptoms. Decreases the risk of artery and heart spasms as it reduces cholesterol levels along with lysine.
VALINE

Promotes a sharp mind, coordinated muscles and calm mood

4. The Moringa leaves helps in boosting energy levels in a natural manner, which is long lasting. It is also found to heal ulcers, restrict tumors, reduce arthritis pain and inflammation and control blood pressure.

5. Daily consumption of moringa as part of the diet improves body’s natural defense mechanism. It is an immune stimulant and it is often prescribed for AIDS afflicted patients.

6. It is rich in vitamin A or beta-carotene and acts as an effective weapon against blindness.

7. It plays an important role in lactating mothers. Consumption of moringa is reported to cause a dramatic increase in breast milk.

8. As it balances the sugar levels, it can be extremely effective against diabetics.

9. Increased consumption of junk food in the present scenario can lead to high cholesterol levels. Moringa helps in balancing the cholesterol levels in the body.

10. Consumption of moringa leaves stimulates metabolism and cell structure of the body.

11. This plant also has several antibacterial properties and hence can be used as a purifier and as a natural detoxifier.

• Moringa seeds mixed in impure water can help in absorbing all the impurities.
• Moringa helps in the removal and excretion of toxic build up by attracting toxins from the blood.

12. No side effects of moringa leaves have been reported. Hence, it can be safely consumed by children and adults. Nowadays, it is used in porridge, pastas and breads to increase the nutrient content of meals.

13. Moringa supplements are better than most of the multivitamin and calcium supplements available in the market which use synthetic ingredients. Moringa supplements are prepared from moringa leaves and pods which are natural sources of calcium and multivitamins .Their processing method increases the availability and absorption of nutrients by the body.

14. Moringa seeds are used in the manufacture of perfumes and aromatherapy oils. The flowers of moringa are used in making herbal tea which contains flavonoids and antioxidants.

cc licensed ( BY ) flickr photo shared by Forest and Kim Starr

15. Due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, moringa supplements facilitate quick healing of minor injuries like bruises, cuts and burns.

16. Roots of moringa are used in traditional medicine to control disorders of the circulatory system, for stimulating appetite and to improve the functioning of digestive tract. In addition to these, they can treat sexual dysfunctions, female reproductive tract problems and arthritis.

17. According to research, certain elements contained in moringa roots can cure ovarian cancer, kidney stones and inflammations. They improve the overall kidney function by enabling the body to flush out calcium and phosphates from kidneys more efficiently.

Hair Benefits Of Moringa:

Healthy hair improves the physical appearance to a great extent. Health problems or nutritional deficiencies can damage the hair and cause problems like dandruff, split ends and breakage. Hence, proper intake of vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids are involved in the formation of keratin protein.

18. Moringa Oleifera has a high content of vitamin A, thus promoting hair growth and maintenance. Optimum delivery of oxygen and nutrients from the circulatory system to the hair follicle is vital for proper hair growth. Vitamin A plays an important role in the development of healthy cells and tissues in the body and reduction of hair loss. Deficiency of vitamin A can cause thickening of scalp, dry hair and dandruff.

19. Moringa plant also contains zinc which stimulates hair growth by enhancing the immune function. Zinc and silica along with vitamin A prevents drying and clogging of the sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are responsible for production of sebum. Deficiency of zinc can lead to atrophy of the hair follicles due to the impairment of DNA and protein synthesis. Zinc also influences the conformation of nucleic acids.

20. Vitamin E in moringa is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates blood circulation around the scalp. Proper flow of blood to the scalp helps in the absorption of more nutrients available in the hair follicles.

21. Moringa is a storehouse of all the nutrients required for healthy hair. Hair loss occurs due to the deficiency of vitamin B- especially B6, biotin, inositol and folic acid. Proper blood circulation to the scalp enables hair follicles to grow stronger and healthier. Vitamin C together with vitamin E helps in the improvement of blood circulation in the scalp. It is vital to maintain capillaries that carry blood onto the follicles.

22. Moringa contains abundant quantities of minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, selenium, copper and manganese which are essential for healthy hair.

23. Moringa oil is a natural supplement for improving the health and strength of hair and scalp. Regular massage with this oil helps in reducing split ends and dandruff .It supplies rejuvenating vitamins and minerals to the hair follicles and tissues of the scalp.

Skin Benefits Of Moringa:

Just like healthy hair, supply of proper nutrients is vital for the maintenance of healthy skin. Moringa is loaded with nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, B, C, D, E; minerals like copper, iron, zinc, magnesium, silica and manganese. Moringa has moisturizing and nourishing properties and an excellent cleansing ability which makes it an active ingredient in skin care products.

24. Moringa has been found to possess anti-ageing properties. The effect of free radicals on human skin causes the appearance of wrinkles and makes the skin aged and less resistant to lines. Moringa has excellent cleansing ability which aids in cleaning the skin cells of free radicals and restoring the vitality and youthful complexion of the skin.

25. Moringa leaves contain about 30 antioxidants that contribute greatly towards healthy skin. Moringa oil is highly absorbable and hence helps in delivering these powerful antioxidants to the skin cells.

26. Moringa leaves also contain sulphur. This mineral is present in every single cell of the body and is the key ingredient for Collagen and keratin. Collagen is an elastic substance that gives flexibility and softness to the skin and keratin is a rigid substance which gives the skin rigidity and strength. These two substances form the majority of skin tissue and are made up of proteins constructed from sulphur.

27. The seed extract of moringa herb is popular in the cosmetic industry due to its therapeutic skincare benefits and skin purifying properties. It possesses the ability to filter out impurities that are deeply rooted within the skin and has an amazing detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. It enhances the fairness of skin by balancing the natural skin color and tone. A paste made from moringa leaves beautifies the skin and can be used as a face mask.

28. The ben oil which is extracted from moringa seeds is used to soften and soothe baby’s’ skin.

29. Moringa seed extract is used in protective creams and has the ability to provide protection against cigarette smoke and heavy metal pollution.

30. It is a powerful cleaning agent and moringa seed powder is used as an active ingredient in deep cleansing creams and lotions. It protects the skin from adhering pollution and smog.

Nutritional Value Of Moringa:

The most amazing fact about moringa is that it is a storehouse of nutrients and medicinal chemicals. The various parts of this plant are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron and protein. It contains a plethora of phytonutrients, eight essential amino acids and other powerful disease fighting antioxidants. According to the Ayurveda, moringa comprises of around 539 compounds capable of preventing 300 diseases. Moringa contains more than 90 nutrients and 46 different antioxidants which make it a powerhouse of nutrition. The table given below provides a gist of the nutritional value of this wonderful plant.

 Moringa leaves are a storehouse of nutrients. They contain seven times more potassium than bananas and twice the amount of protein as that contained in milk. Milk is considered to be an important source of calcium, but moringa leaves contain four times more calcium than milk. They contain four times more vitamin A or beta carotene than carrots. Moringa powder which is prepared by grinding the dried leaves of moringa contain seven times more vitamin C than oranges, 25 times the amount of iron in spinach, 36 times the amount of magnesium in eggs, 50 times more vitamin B3 than peanuts and 50 times more vitamin B2 than bananas.

 Moringa leaves compared to common foods

Values per 100gm. edible portion

In addition to these nutrients, moringa leaves contains all the essential amino acids needed for growth and development of the body.

Amino Acid Content of Moringa Leaves:

All values are per 100 grams of edible portion.

Fresh Leaves Dried Leaves.

Looking at the benefits of Moringa , it is imperative to include it in our diets and daily regime. With its antioxidant, purifying and detox properties it is the skin’s best friend. Always do a patch test before applying any new product on your skin like ben oil and the paste of moringa leaves. Moringa is an easy and delicious way to reap the benefits.

- See more at: http://fitlife.tv/30-amazing-benefits-of-moringa-plant-for-skin-hair-and-health/#sthash.cvgvp4JV.dpuf

The healing powers of moringa

By Chris Kilham



In a remote valley of Congo, on a farm with splendid views of lush green mountains, I stand amidst a plantation of young moringa trees. The green leaves glisten in the African sun, the seed pods hang in curls. I pull a tender young leaf and chew on it, enjoying the fresh, pleasing taste. The Belgian couple growing this crop plans to cash in on an up-and-coming trend and their timing appears to be just right.

Over the past few years, a botanical new to the U.S. and European markets has been making impressive gains in popularity, due to its broad traditional benefits and emerging supportive science. That plant, moringa oleifera, is native to northern India, Pakistan, the Himalayan region, Africa and Arabia, but is now cultivated more widely throughout the tropics. The young plantation I have visited in Congo is one such cultivation project.

Also known as drumstick tree or horseradish tree, moringa trees grow quickly, reaching a height of between 15 and 30 feet within just a few years. The leaves, fruit flowers and immature pods of the tree are eaten as nutritious foods. The leaves in particular are consumed either raw in salads, tossed into blender drinks, or steamed like spinach. Rich in protein, beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium and calcium, the leaves make an excellent green vegetable, and are pleasing in flavor.

But beyond the flavor and nutrition, moringa offers healing benefits. Virtually all parts of the plant are used to treat inflammation, infectious disorders, and various problems of the cardiovascular and digestive organs, while improving liver function and enhancing milk flow in nursing mothers. The uses of moringa are well documented in both the Ayurvedic and Unani systems of traditional medicine, among the most ancient healing systems in the world.

Moringa is rich in a variety of health-enhancing compounds, including moringine, moringinine, the potent antioxidants quercetin, kaempferol, rhamnetin, and various polyphenols. The leaves seem to be getting the most market attention, notably for their use in reducing high blood pressure, eliminating water weight, and lowering cholesterol.

Studies show that moringa leaves possess anti-tumor and anti-cancer activities, due in part to a compound called niaziminin. Preliminary experimentation also shows activity against the Epstein-Barr virus. Compounds in the leaf appear to help regulate thyroid function, especially in cases of over-active thyroid. Further research points to anti-viral activity in cases of Herpes simplex 1. 

Now that moringa is emerging as a popular supplement for health enhancement, the science on this plant is accelerating. The glucose-modifying, anti-diabetic effects of moringa may prove of great use amidst a virtual epidemic of Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The liver-protective activities of the leaf and its extracts could make it a staple component of bitters formulas and various cleansing preparations. And ongoing work on the anti-cancer properties of moringa may at some point earn this plant a role in chemotherapy.

In the traditional medicinal systems of many cultures, plants with long uses and benefits remain to be discovered. Moringa oleifera, unknown in the market just ten years ago, is surging into greater popularity due to its multiple health benefits and nutritious value as a food. Also known colloquially as “miracle tree,” moringa is a valuable plant medicine, and deserves a place in the home pharmacy. 


Chris Kilham is a medicine hunter who researches natural remedies all over the world, from the Amazon to Siberia. He teaches ethnobotany at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he is Explorer In Residence. Chris advises herbal, cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies and is a regular guest on radio and TV programs worldwide. His field research is largely sponsored by Naturex of Avignon, France.

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2014/11/12/healing-powers-moringa/

SUNY Cobleskill Researching an "Amazing" Tree

It's a tree with the power to save lives of those suffering from hunger, and it's being grown in the greenhouses of SUNY Cobleskill. Time Warner Cable News reporter Barry Wygel visited the campus to learn more. 

COBLESKILL, N.Y. -- For a plant, this tree has a pretty impressive resume.

"They have more vitamin C than an orange, they have more potassium than a banana, more iron than spinach and more protein than yogurt and more calcium than milk," said George Crosby, a professor of plant science at SUNY Cobleskill.

"In parts of the world where folks have a problem with malnutrition, and there are a lot of folks that are in that situation, moringa becomes a part of the puzzle."

Moringa is ideal in places like Africa, where the plant can thrive in humid hot conditions.

"You have a tree that can survive three to four months without a drop of water. It just drops its leaves and waits for it to rain," said Crosby.

Work and research is underway in the greenhouses of SUNY Cobleskill to bring the tree to a wider audience.

"My work is primarily looked at growing moringa as a crop, like we would a lot of other crops," said Crosby.

While moringa isn't a fix-all solution to world hunger, it certainly can play a role in saving lives and improving the health of the world's poorest populations.

- See more at: http://albany.twcnews.com/content/news/793826/suny-cobleskill-researching-an--amazing--tree/#sthash.4BOV4Mh5.dpuf

Moringa leaves cure 300 diseases, says Don

BY NAN

A Don, Prof. Zachariah Russom, says Moringa leaves can cure more than 300 diseases.

Russom, who teaches at the University of Jos, said this during a workshop for farmers in Langtang North, Plateau, organised by the Centre for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (CBGE) of the university.

He said that Nigeria was blessed with abundant agricultural potentials and called on farmers to take the advantage to grow more Moringa plant which he called “miracle plant”.

“Moringa is a wonder plant which has proved to be a cure for more than 300 diseases in the world.

“Growing moringa plants is like growing multi vitamins at your doorstep as science has proved that the leaves are packed with incredible nutrition that can strengthen our bodies and prevent many diseases.

He said the leaves contained huge quantities of protein, vitamins C and A, and calcium.

The Chairman of Langtang North Local government, Mr Nanmwan Godwin, represented by the council’s secretary, Mr Richard Jateau, said the workshop was timely.

He said the workshop came at a time when Nigeria was making frantic efforts diversify its economy owing to the daunting challenges that the oil market was facing.

http://www.punchng.com/news/moringa-leaves-cure-300-diseases-says-don/

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