The benefits of moringa for the human body are multiple, which is why its consumption is so important for maintaining our health. To better understand this, let us first understand what moringa is.
What is moringa?
Moringa is a tree that offers valuable nutritional and energy resources, among which its medicinal properties for fighting fatigue, cholesterol, inflammatory processes, and even preventing infections stand out.
Extracts from its leaves and seeds show an intense antioxidant capacity, very useful for slowing the action of free radicals. It is, therefore, attributed with a preventative effect. Other properties of moringa include helping to stop or delay the oxidative stress that affects the cells of different organs in the body.
What is moringa used for?
- It has an anti-inflammatory capacity, being a very effective adjuvant in the treatment of chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and osteoarthritis, but also in digestive, hepatic, and renal inflammation. Concentrated moringa leaf extracts have demonstrated their ability to help decrease tissue inflammation, as well as favor a reduction in blood LDL cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) and prevent future cardiovascular accidents.
- It mitigates the symptoms of allergic processes and helps reduce inflammation of the respiratory tract mucosa. Moringa oleifera is indicated for respiratory allergies, allergies to pollutants and food intolerances, and asthmatic processes that present with rhinitis, conjunctivitis, laryngitis, or bronchitis.
- It promotes urine production, relieves kidney inflammation and inflammation present in the urinary tract such as the bladder, and prevents fluid retention and edema.
- It exerts a protective and detoxifying effect on the kidney, as it contributes to attenuating damage caused by toxic agents, such as some medications and heavy metals. It favors the elimination of these toxins via urine.
- It exerts a restorative effect on liver cells, increasing protein content, restoring liver enzyme levels, and reducing inflammation. A toned liver ensures proper functioning of digestion and nutrient metabolism.
Certain studies point to its ability to reduce blood and urine sugar levels. They have also shown that it can improve hemoglobin and protein levels in patients with diabetes.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) states that its leaves “are rich in protein, vitamins A, B, and C, and minerals: highly recommended for pregnant and lactating women, as well as for young children.”
It is important to keep in mind that moringa should be consumed in moderation, as its side effects include insomnia, an excess of red blood cells, and acidity.
By: Indira González
Nutritionist – Line Specialist, Laboratorios Funat