COMPLETE LIST OF HEALTH BENEFITS WITH RECIPES

Moringa is a drought resistant plant. It grows very fast and is found commonly in Indian subcontinent. It is commonly known in India as Drumstick tree due to the shape of its long, triangular seed pods. It is also known as horseradish tree due to the horseradish like taste of its roots. Another name is Malunggay. The edible parts of this plant include its leaves, seed pods, seeds, fruits, flowers. Its tender roots and bark can also be used in cooking.

COMMON NAMES OF MORINGA

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION OF MORINGA PER 100 G

      

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MORINGA

Lowers high blood glucose levels- moringa leaves have many plant compounds that affects the way sugar is used by the cells. These compounds increase the insulin sensitivity of the cells and at the same time also improves the insulin secretion.

Rich in antioxidants – Moringa oleifera has abundant antioxidants. The build up of free radicals in our body increase the oxidative stress of the human body. This increased oxidation leads to many chronic diseases like heart diseases and diabetes. The antioxidants found in moringa like quercetin and chlorogenic acid scavenges these free radicals and thus decrease the oxidative stress of our body.

Reduces inflammation – Whenever body catches infection or is injured, inflammation is the natural counter-action of our body. A short time inflammation is bearable but when it gets prolonged due to our weak defense mechanism or improper diet then it may lead to serious health conditions like cancer and heart diseases. Mainly all fruits and vegetables, most of the spices have natural compounds that help fight inflammation but this varies a lot. In this context, moringa secures good position as it helps reducing inflammation due to the isothiocyanates found in its leaves, pods and seeds.

Anti-hyperlipidemic effects – Moringa has natural compounds that are known to reduce cholesterol in the body. As high levels of cholesterol are a silent risk for heart diseases and ultimately stroke. Thus, moringa possess heart protective natural compounds.

Water purifier – Seeds of moringa when pressed for oil extraction can be used to purify water. They have some natural compounds that have charged electrons that separate all unwanted particles including arsenic and leaves pure water behind. This attribute of moringa does not comes directly as a health benefit but still serves a great role by purifying water loaded with arsenic.

RECIPES

MORINGA LEAVES CHUTNEY

Ingredients

HOW TO MAKE

In a frying pan add 2 dried red chilies, urad dal, moong dal and roast them. Now in a wok, add 1 tbsp. oil . in hot oil add mustard seeds, and then add moringa leaves and salt. Till the leaves get somewhat wilted, keep on sautéing them. Care must be taken that the leaves may not lose their green color. Put everything in a mixer and add 2 green chilies. Crush them with ¼ cup water. Serve with the meals.

DRUMSTICK CURRY

Ingredients

HOW TO MAKE

In a pressure cooker add 2-3 cups water, salt (1 tsp), turmeric powder and drumsticks. Boil it for 2- 3 whistles. In a wok, add oil, cumin seeds, curry leaves, onions either finely chopped or full (very small onions). Add tomato puree, red chilli powder, coriander powder and saute it for 5 minutes. Now add boiled drumsticks and cover it for 10 minutes with meanwhile stirring. Serve hot with chapatis or rice.

CONCLUSION

Moringa is a plant that is widely grown in Indian sub-continent. It is a rich source of calcium, phosphorous and iron. It can be used in various recipes and even in some parts its tea is also consumed. Its benefits can be enjoyed only after consuming it for a long time. But it must be used in moderation only because a well balanced diet with all the food groups included is the only key to overall health.