Moringa leaves or Drumstick is native to India that grows in other tropical and sub-tropical regions like Asia, Africa, and South America.
The leaves, seeds, flowers, and roots of moringa have been used in folk medicine for centuries. The minerals and vitamins of the tree give various health benefits to our body. It is also considered an important food source in some parts of the world.
Nutritional facts of Moringa leaves
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, and Folate. They are also rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. There are 18 types of amino acids are found in moringa leaves.
One cup of moringa leaves will contain 2 grams of protein, magnesium (8% RDA), Vitamin B6 (19% RDA), Iron (11% RDA), Riboflavin (11% RDA), and Vitamin A (9% RDA).
Health Benefits of Moringa Leaves
Drumstick leaves have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the behavior of our body that responds to any injury or pain. Inflammation is the main cause of some severe diseases like cancer, and arthritis syndromes. The presence of isothiocyanates in the leaves ensures the inflammatory property.
How to consume
Internal consumption
- Moringa leaves should be cooked to consume. Any part of the moringa plant as raw consumption is not safe.
- The fresh leaves can be cooked in curries and added to vegetable fries.
- Powdered moringa can be added to smoothies.
- You can dry the leaves in the sun, ground them to a powder, and make herbal tea using it. Moringa leaf tea has many benefits as fresh leaves.
Side Effects
Alkaloids in moringa will lower the blood pressure level and also slows down the heart rate. Consuming a large number of moringa leaves will cause uterine contractions. So, pregnant women should avoid this.
Faq:
Can moringa leaves be eaten raw?
Ans: No. Moringa plant parts should not be consumed raw. It is very bitter and pungent. Consuming it raw may increase body heat, so the leaves should be cooked to eat.
Can moringa leaves be boiled for drinking?
Ans: Yes. Fresh drumstick leaves should be washed and can be boiled with water and a little salt. Strain the water and drink. It gives energy, improves digestion, and endurance.
Can moringa leaves terminate a pregnancy?
Ans: Yes. Moringa leaves have abortifacient potential. Based on studies, moringa leaves are not safe for pregnant women. It stimulates the uterus and causes contractions that may lead to premature labor or miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Can moringa leaves cure PCOS?
Ans: Yes. Moringa leaves can lower blood insulin levels that in return reduce the androgen and lead to high production of folliculogenesis in PCOS. Also, moringa has adaptogens therefore it helps with hormone imbalances which are also a reason for PCOS.
Can moringa leaves reduce blood sugar?
Ans: Yes. Moringa leaves have Quercetin and Chologenic, the natural antioxidants that help to reduce blood pressure and stabilize blood sugar levels. The Chlorogenic acid may help utilize body sugar better and manage insulin levels.
Can moringa leaves increase sperm count?
Ans: Yes. Some animal studies proved that moringa leaf extract significantly increases sperm count due to its antioxidant properties.
In another study, moringa supplementation increased sperm motility and reduced sperm linearity. It is suggested that moringa leaves may increase testosterone levels, sperm motility, and libido in men.
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