Moringa, also known as the “drumstick tree” or “benzol tree,” is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, proteins, and antioxidants.
Originally found at the foothills of the Himalayas, moringa is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Its leaves, pods, seeds, and even roots are used in various dishes and food supplements.
Moringa leaves contain a wide range of vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron.
It is also rich in antioxidants like quercetin and chlorogenic acid, which help lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, respectively.
The proteins in moringa are also noteworthy, as it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete source of protein, particularly important for vegetarians and vegans.
Moringa extracts are used to make various preparations that assist with skin diseases, infections, and even in the fight against cancer.
In Indian traditional medicine (Ayurveda), moringa is used to treat various ailments, including inflammation, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Nutritional Value
In 100 grams of dried moringa leaves, there are approximately 9 g of carbohydrates; however, most of them come from dietary fiber, which does not affect blood sugar levels.
A standard serving of moringa powder is about 1 teaspoon (approximately 5 g), providing around 2 g of net carbohydrates. This amount can be confidently included in a daily diet without the risk of exiting ketosis.
Interesting Facts about Moringa
Origin of the Name. The name “moringa” comes from the Sanskrit word “moringa,” which means “animal feed.”
Place of Growth. Moringa is native to India, but it is now found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia.
Moringa prefers sunny spots and can grow in poor and sandy soils, making it ideal for many ecosystems.
Nutritional Value. Moringa leaves are a true superfood: they contain over 25 vitamins and 46 antioxidants, as well as a significant amount of protein.
Drought Resistance. Moringa is known for its ability to survive in water-scarce conditions, making it an ideal crop for arid regions.
Ecological Role. Moringa helps improve soil quality and prevent erosion due to its deep root system.
Growth Rate. Moringa is a fast-growing plant that can reach heights of up to 3 meters in just a few months under the right conditions.
Comparison with Other Plants. Moringa is sometimes called the “tree of life” or “miracle tree” due to its numerous beneficial properties and nutritional value.
Moringa Seeds. Moringa seeds can be used to purify water, as they have the ability to bind with contaminants.
Lipid Profile
Moringa contains various types of fats, which can be categorized as follows:
- Saturated fats: approximately 4-6% of the total fat content.
- Monounsaturated fats: about 30-35% of the total fat content.
- Polyunsaturated fats: approximately 55-60% of the total fat content, including:
- Polyunsaturated Omega-3 ALA: about 1-2%.
- Polyunsaturated Omega-6 LA: approximately 50-55%.
- Polyunsaturated Omega-6 AA: in trace amounts, less than 1%.
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