Often referred to as the “miracle tree,” Moringa has long been used for nutritional, medical and various non-food uses. It is readily available in various forms, including capsules, extracts, oils, powders and teas.
Studies have also shown that moringa has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and may even help improve digestion and heart health too. Some other benefits include:
1. Moringa is Rich in Nutrients
Moringa seeds are low in calories, but rich in essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids.
One cup (140 g) of moringa seeds contains:
• Calories = 37
• Carbohydrates = 8.5 g
• Protein = 2 g
• Fat = <1 g
• Vitamin C = 235% daily value
• Iron = 350% daily value
• Potassium = 13% daily value
• Magnesium = 28% daily value
• Calcium = 3% Daily Value
Moringa seeds also contain 19 of 22 amino acids, including all 9 essential amino acids, which your body can't produce itself. This is similar to other well-known "superfoods" seeds like sunflower and chia seeds. Meanwhile, the pods are especially fibrous, which can help with digestive issues.
2. Boosts Heart Health – Moringa seeds may be beneficial to heart health and may improve heart health by reducing triglycerides, oxidative stress and inflammation. They contain high levels of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and may decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke if replacing saturated fat.
3. Moringa Supports Digestion – Due to its high fiber content, moringa pods may be beneficial for your digestion. Each pod contains around 47% fiber and can help you digest regularly and easily.
4. May Help Fight Cancer – Moringa seeds are known for their potential cancer-fighting abilities. A protein extracted from moringa seeds has been shown to slow the growth of liver cancer in both human and animal cells by up to 71%. In another lab study, moringa seed extract kept breast cancer cells from significantly growing and spreading. Liver and colon cancer cells have also been shown to decrease significantly when treated with moringa seeds.
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