Moringa Power: Benefits for Skin and Breastfeeding
What is Moringa oleifera ?
Moringa oleifera is a tree that is high in macro- and micronutrients as well as other bioactive chemicals and has many medicinal properties such as antidiabetic, anticancer, antiulcer, antibacterial and antioxidant. Moringa oleifera has potential benefits like prevention or treatment of several chronic conditions. It also has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, high blood pressure and other long-term disorders. Moringa oleifera has also been used traditionally to cure a variety of ailments including fever, diarrhea and respiratory infections.
The nutritional and medicinal effects of Moringa leaves have been extensively researched. They contain high amounts of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and bioactive substances such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. The leaves have anti-cancer, anti-diabetic and antibacterial properties. Moringa leaves suppress cancer cell growth, lower blood sugar levels and show antibacterial activity against a variety of infections. The leaves are also high in antioxidants and may help boost the immune system. In future years, the global market for Moringa commodities, including supplements and cosmetics, is predicted to grow dramatically. Overall, Moringa leaves are a natural, nutritional supplement with many health benefits.
Moringa leaves have many medicinal uses. These have neuroprotective, anticarcinogenic, hepatoprotective and lipid reducing properties. Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, infertility, pain relief, depression, and diuretics and thyroid diseases have also been studied. Moringa leaves have shown potential as an anti-diabetic drug, with the ability to reduce postprandial glycemia and block anti-inflammatory mediators in diabetic patients. Moringa leaves have also been found to have anticarcinogenic effects, including antiproliferative activity. The therapeutic effect of the leaves is enhanced by bioactive substances such as phenols, flavonoids and alkaloids. In general, Moringa leaves provide a natural and adaptable solution for various therapeutic purposes.
Nutritional properties of Moringa
1. Therapeutic properties
Parts of the Moringa tree that can be used for nutritional or commercial purposes include the leaves, seeds, and pods. Moringa leaves are rich in nutrients and can be used to cure a variety of diseases including asthma, diabetes and skin problems. Moringa seeds can be used to extract Ben oil, which contains oleic acid, tocopherols, and sterols. The oil is useful in cooking, aroma and lubrication. Moringa pods have excellent coagulant abilities and can absorb organic contaminants and pesticides.
Moringa leaves contain a high concentration of vital nutrients, vitamins, minerals and bioactive substances. The concentrations of these components may vary depending on geographical location, climate and environmental conditions. Moringa leaves also contain high amounts of vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3 and Vitamin E. These contain minerals like calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, manganese and sulphur. Moringa leaves are also rich in total amino acids and carotenoids (β-carotene). They also contain bioactive components such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and isothiocyanates, which contribute to their antioxidant, anti-diabetic and antibacterial activities. Overall, Moringa leaves contain a wide range of nutrients that may provide a variety of health benefits.
2. Anti-cancer Activities
Moringa leaves have anti-cancer properties in many ways. The leaves contain bioactive chemicals that contribute to their anticancer activities, including phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and isothiocyanates. These chemicals have been shown to trigger apoptosis (programmed cell death) and reduce cancer cell growth. Moringa extract has been proven to regulate apoptotic pathway enzymes such as caspase-3 and caspase-9. They also cause oxidative stress in cancer cells, resulting in DNA damage and reduced cell viability. Moringa leaves have also been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cell lines such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), cervical cancer (HeLa), lymphoma and leukemia cells. The ability of the leaves to alter signalling pathways, block tumour cell migration, and regulate the expression of proteins involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis has been linked to their anticancer activity. Overall, Moringa leaves’ bioactive components contribute to its promise as a natural and effective anticancer medicine.
- 17 times more calcium than that of milk
- 25 times more iron than that of Spinach
- A rich source of Vitamin C
- An excellent source of Amino acids (Amino acids form proteins)
- Boosts overall energy level
- Increases stamina & vitality
- Naturally restores essential vitamin & mineral imbalances
- Country of Origin: India
3. Anti-microbial properties of Moringa leaves
Various bioactive chemicals in Moringa leaves have antibacterial abilities. Chemical metabolites found in the leaves include pterigospermine, moringin, benzene isothiocyanate, catechin, epicatechin, vicinin-like anthocyanate, and glucosinolate. These chemicals contribute to the antibacterial effectiveness of Moringa leaves against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Because phenolic compounds are lipophilic, they improve antibacterial activity by interacting with the cell membrane and other lipophilic components of the cell. This contact causes irreversible changes in the cytoplasmic membrane, cell aggregation, and channel and enzyme disruption. Moringa leaves inhibit the growth of germs like Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, proteus mirabilis, pseudomonas aeruginosa and staphylococcus aureus. They are also antifungal against Candida albicans, aspergillus fumigatus, cryptococcus neoformans, and other fungi. Moringa leaves have also been proven to have antiviral properties against herpes simplex virus, hepatitis C virus, influenza virus, and African swine fever virus. Moringa leaves’ antimicrobial characteristics make them a valuable natural resource for possible therapeutic applications.
4. Bioactive compounds are found in Moringa leaves
Moringa leaves contain phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, and vitamins, among other useful components. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective activities have been demonstrated for these substances. Therefore, consuming Moringa leaves may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease and neurological problems, as well as improve overall health and well-being. The inclusion of ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenolics and carotenoids in the extract of Moringa oleifera leaves contributes to its antioxidant activity. These substances are known to have antioxidant properties that may help protect cells from free radical-induced oxidative damage. Moringa leaves contain a variety of important amino acids and minerals, including methionine, cysteine, lysine, and calcium, which are essential for optimal health. The combination of these nutrients and antioxidants in Moringa oleifera leaf extract is believed to contribute to its antioxidant activity.
Moringa oleifera contains a variety of macro- and micronutrients as well as bioactive substances such as 4(α-L-rhamnosyloxy)-benzyl isothiocyanate, niazimicin, 3-O-(6′-oleoyl-β-D-glucopyranoyl)-β-sitosterol, β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, niazirin, β-sitosterol, and glycerol-1-(9-octadecnoate). Furthermore, the tree is a potential source of vitamin A, which may aid in the treatment of vitamin A deficiency and the improvement of children’s vision.
5. Health Benefits
Moringa leaf powder can be used as a fortifier to boost nutrition in food products in a concentrated form that consumers will accept. Moringa leaves contain a variety of minerals, including β-carotene, vitamin C, protein, iron, potassium, and high levels of phenols, which are considered as an antidote against free radical molecules. Vitamin C, A, calcium, potassium and protein are found in large quantities in Moringa leaves.
According to research, Moringa leaves contain
- 10 times more vitamin A than carrots.
- 17 times the amount of calcium in milk
- 15 times the potassium of a Banana
- 25 times the iron of spinach
- 9 times the protein of yogurt
As a result, employing Moringa leaf powder as a meal enhancer may help treat vitamin shortages or malnutrition while also delivering functional health advantages. A study discovered that it is more challenging to create dietary intake guidelines and to directly compare data due to variations in the extraction, preparation, and processing procedures. Despite these limitations, eating significant amounts of Moringa oleifera leaves is thought to be safe. However, this should be reassessed in light of specific contaminants including heavy metals, PAHs, and mycotoxins. The high amounts of pollutants and nutrients point to the necessity for greater in-depth research and the implementation of legal restrictions on the use of Moringa oleifera products. Although Moringa can be used in many different dishes, processing and preserving it might present difficulties because of variations in preparation, extraction, and processing techniques as well as the presence of pollutants and anti-nutrients that need to be carefully examined.
One method is to incorporate the leaves into herbal teas, smoothies, juices, soups, stews, and curries. You can also add Moringa leaf powder to baked goods, pasta, and other foods, or take it as a supplement. Before adding any new foods or supplements to your diet, though, always get medical advice. This is especially important if you use medication or have any underlying medical conditions. Additionally, in order to prevent contamination and foodborne illness, it is crucial to make sure that Moringa leaves are boiled and cleaned properly.
Children under three who suffer from malnutrition can be treated with Moringa extract. Lactogogues containing phytosterols, which are hormone precursors, can increase estrogen synthesis and the formation of mammary gland ducts to generate milk. Phytosterols found in Moringa, including campesterol, sitosterol, and stigmasterol, may encourage the synthesis of estrogens. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, 6 teaspoons of Moringa leaf powder can meet a woman’s daily iron and calcium requirements.
- Nature’s Nutrient Powerhouse: Moringa, also known as the “Miracle Tree,” is renowned for its exceptional nutritional content. Our capsules contain pure, organic moringa leaf powder, offering a rich source of vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants.
Market Outlook for Moringa Products
Products made from moringa seem to have a promising market. The potential medical applications of moringa products could benefit the economies of the regions where moringa is cultivated and produced. It is important to note that, nevertheless, any potential negative effects must be thoroughly monitored, and the bioavailability of the minerals in Moringa products must be verified. The global Moringa components market was valued at approximately USD 5.5 billion in 2018, USD 6.9 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% from 2021 to 2028. Products include leaf powder, which has the greatest market share of Moringa products (30%), as well as leaf tea, oil, and seeds. Market growth is being driven by the growing need for dietary supplements and the use of Moringa in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The Asia Pacific region, especially China, Japan, and India, is anticipated to dominate the market in terms of size and growth rate. The region’s increasing need for wholesome grains and the usage of electronic media for product promotion are both contributing factors. In addition, it is anticipated that the markets for goods containing Moringa would expand significantly in France, the UK, Germany, Italy, the US, and Canada. The market is expanding in these areas due to rising awareness of the health advantages of Moringa as well as the growing demand for organic and non-synthetic components in high-quality cosmetics and personal care products. In general, it is anticipated that the market for products made from Moringa will grow considerably in the next years.
Moringa as a hand wash product: controlled study
When the efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf powder as a hand-washing product was tested on healthy volunteers, the results showed that 4 grams of Moringa oleifera powder for hand washing in both dry and wet had shown the same effect as non-medicated soap. Moringa oleifera, according to the research, could be a healthy and economical hand-cleaning product in locations where soap or water is rare. The study involved 15 adult volunteers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). These volunteers were selected for the study based on physical assessment, which showed that they were healthy, had healthy skin and had no skin diseases.
Moringa has the potential to reduce the spread of diseases, especially diarrheal diseases, by improving hygiene practices and effectively controlling pathogenic organisms transmitted through contaminated hands, which are a leading cause of mortality in Africa and Southeast Asia.
- RICH FOAM: Experience thick, foamy lather for a sensorial handwashing experience
- EXOTIC FRAGRANCE: Pleasant Aloe Coconut fragrance
- SOFT ON HANDS: Dermatologically tested, pH balanced, moisture-rich handwash
- 10X BETTER GERM PROTECTION: Foaming handwash gives 10X better germ protection vs liquid handwash
- REFILL AVAILABLE: Refill only with Dettol Foaming Handwash Refills
Moringa Oleifera Safety Guidelines
Although Moringa oleifera is generally safe to consume, some precautions still need to be taken. The tree’s roots and bark contain a poisonous chemical that can cause paralysis and death if consumed, so these sections should be avoided. Consuming Moringa leaves or supplements in large amounts may cause digestive difficulties such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach upset. Before consuming Moringa oleifera if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended that you consult a health care professional.
References
- Torondel, B., Opare, D., Brandberg, B., Cobb, E., & Cairncross, S. (2014). Efficacy of Moringa oleifera leaf powder as a hand- washing product: a crossover controlled study among healthy volunteers. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-14-57
- Patil, S. V., Mohite, B. V., Marathe, K., Salunkhe, N. S., Marathe, V., & Patil, V. (2022). Moringa Tree, Gift of Nature: a Review on Nutritional and Industrial Potential. Current Pharmacology Reports, 8(4), 262–280. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40495-022-00288-7
- Fahey, J. (2005). Microbiological monitoring of laboratory mice. In Research methods for mutant mice series (pp. 157–164). https://doi.org/10.1201/9781420039078.ch12
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- Grosshagauer, S., Pirkwieser, P., Kraemer, K., & Somoza, V. (2021). The Future of Moringa Foods: A Food Chemistry perspective. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.751076
- Kashyap, P., Kumar, S., Jindal, N., Guiné, R., Correia, P., Mehra, R., & Bhardwaj, A. (2022). Recent Advances in Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) Leaves Bioactive Compounds: Composition, Health Benefits, Bioaccessibility, and Dietary Applications. Antioxidants, 11(2), 402. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11020402
- Handayani, Y., Aminah, S., Yanis, M., & Waryat. (2022). Characteristics of moringa leaf powder as fortification and consumer acceptance. IOP Conference Series, 1027(1), 012005. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1027/1/012005
- Islam, Z., Islam, S. M. R., Hossen, F., Mahtab-Ul-Islam, K., Hasan, M. R., & Karim, R. (2021). Moringa oleifera is a Prominent Source of Nutrients with Potential Health Benefits. International Journal of Food Science, 2021, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/6627265
- Vergara-Jiménez, M., Almatrafi, M., & Fernández, M. L. (2017). Bioactive Components in Moringa Oleifera Leaves Protect against Chronic Disease. Antioxidants, 6(4), 91. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox6040091
- Gopalakrishnan, L., Doriya, K., & Kumar, D. S. (2016). Moringa oleifera: A review on nutritive importance and its medicinal application. Food Science and Human Wellness, 5(2), 49–56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fshw.2016.04.001