Magical Moringa
When I was growing up, my mother would regularly come home from the Asian market with bundles of moringa leaves. My family called it "kamunggay." It was a mild-tasting green leaf that we would add to dishes, especially soups. I was always told that it was a nutritient powerhouse. As an adult now practicing the ancient healing system of Ayurveda, I studied the health benefits of the "miracle tree" moringa, unaware that this what I ate as a child.
Just these last two weeks, two friends asked for advice on trees that they could plant in their backyard. We talked about fruit trees, which of course are always wonderful. But my number one tree recommendation was the moringa tree. As this tree grows in your home, you have a constant supply of powerhouse greens. Here are some of the health benefits:
- When fresh, they are rich in vitamin C.
- When comparing equal quantities, moringa leaves contain 24 times the iron of spinach, 16 times the calcium of milk, 9 times the vitamin A of carrots, many times the potassium of bananas, and every essential amino acid your body needs.
- 100g of fresh Moringa leaves have 8.3 g protein, 434 mg calcium, 404 mg potassium, 738 μg vitamin A, and 164 mg vitamin C [5].
-46 powerful antioxidants,
Anecdotal evidence and promising peer-research has identified benefits for the following conditions:
- anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory properties
- tumors, gastric ulcers, muscle cramps, kidney stones, headaches, intestinal worms, diabetes
- Supports overall heart and liver health
Organic, dried moringa is easily purchased through reputable herbal companies. However, food is medicine and one of the best ways for your body to best absorb vital nutrients is through the food we eat. And of course, that brings me back to growing that tree!
It brings a smile to my face to imagine our neighborhoods rich with moringa trees, to see kids being taught about the healing power of nature from trees in their own neighborhoods and backyards. Take a look at these instructions that give some tips on growing your own moringa tree.
Enjoy!
