Written By: Pragati Ekamalli, B.Pharm
Clinical Studies Reviewed By: Vikas Londhe M.Pharm (Pharmacology)
Final Review By:
Introduction
Over the past decade, there has been a growing craze of recognizing nutrient-rich plants as superfoods, following the popularity of chia seeds; the latest addition of plant in to this trend is moringa (Moringa Oleifera). Although moringa is an ancient plant with an exceptional nutritional profile, some of its nutritional values were unknown in the past, and hence, this plant was hidden from the diet and nutrition industry. Moringa is now often considered a ‘miracle tree’ or ‘tree of life’ and is at the vanguard in modern nutritional discussions.
What is Moringa Oleifera?
Moringa also known as ‘drumstick’ or ‘horseradish tree’ is a multipurpose tropical tree. It is largely used for food and has abundant medicinal and agricultural uses. Moringa is nutritious, fast-growing and drought-tolerant plant. It is ancient plant, rediscovered in the 1990s and its cultivation has since become popular in South Asia, particularly the Himalayan region, and is also cultivated across Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia, where it is among the most economically valuable crops. All parts of the plant have been used traditionally for centuries; however, the leaves have been gaining popularity in the modern diet and nutrition industry.
Powerhouse of Nutrition
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant-based proteins. Moringa contains all nine essential amino acids, making moringa a rare source of complete plant-based proteins. Moringa is richly packed with several vitamins, including vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin C, vitamin E, and several B vitamins like vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and vitamin B3 (niacin). Moringa is packed with minerals like
calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. Moringa leaves are known for their antioxidant potential, the powerful antioxidants like quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and beta-sitosterol, which are responsible for combating oxidative stress and inflammation. It is also low in fat and contains no harmful cholesterol.
Health Benefits
“Numerous studies have already been conducted, and some are still ongoing, to understand the health benefits of moringa. The hype around moringa is not speculative, but it is backed by scientific research.” However, in our research, it is found that, as moringa is a plant and no active substance has yet been isolated to perform clinical trials on humans, most of the studies were performed in animal models only, where different extracts were used for activity.
Skin Health
For skin health, moringa offers an array of benefits. Its antioxidant properties help protect skin cells from free radical oxidative damage. As per one study, moringa slows down signs of aging such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Clinical studies have shown that topical application of moringa extracts can improve skin firmness and hydration. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective in treating acne, eczema, and minor wounds. By reducing inflammation and promoting collagen synthesis, moringa supports faster skin healing and a clearer complexion.
According to one detailed study performed in China and published in Frontiers in Nutrition, moringa leaf extracts possessed promising anti-elastase and anti-collagenase activities.
Another study published in ‘Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy’ related to the stem extract of the moringa plant shows protective effects against epidermal oxidative stress injury induced by hydrogen peroxide in keratinocytes by UVB radiation in mice.
Hair Health
In hair care, moringa is equally beneficial. It nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair follicles due to its rich content of amino acids, iron, and vitamins, which are vital for hair growth.
One study published in the Pharmacognosy journal found that the seed oil of moringa possesses anti-alopecia activity. The compounds like phytosterol and fatty acid are responsible for the anti-hair fall effect. Moringa’s anti-hair fall effect works by inhibiting the 5α-reductase enzyme, thus preventing the formation of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and its binding to androgen receptors in hair follicles. This action helps prevent hair loss. Additionally, other components such as tocopherols function as antioxidants, protecting the scalp and promoting healthy blood circulation, which aids in delivering essential nutrients to the hair. This action can be beneficial in maintaining scalp health and reducing dandruff and itchiness.
Source: Freepik.com
Source: Isagenix® International (YouTube) _ Moringa Benefits Documentary, “The Miracle Tree”
Diabetes Mellitus
Moringa is believed to help in managing diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing inflammation. Several studies have been published regarding the anti-diabetic potential of moringa, including various parts of the plant. On retrospective review published in the journal Nutrients, the studies conducted in animals for antidiabetic effects, and some human trials as well. Most of the animal models show a significant reduction in glycemia and glucose tolerance test. However, as DM is a chronic disease, long-term studies are needed. On the contrary, human trials are not consistent with animal studies, and most of the trials do not show an effect on glycemia; only two studies have shown the anti-diabetic effect. Hence, more detailed and deep research is needed to establish this connection.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Moringa oleifera contains bioactive compounds like quercetin, kaempferol, and chlorogenic acid, which exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research shows that Moringa extract reduced inflammation in rat models of arthritis by decreasing inflammatory markers like TNF-α and IL-1β. Rheumatoid arthritis involves dysregulation of the immune system. Some compounds in Moringa may modulate immune responses. One study shows that Moringa seed extract modulated both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses in mice, published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology.
Bone Health
Moringa potentially reduces bone loss associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. Incorporating moringa into the diet may support bone health and help prevent conditions like osteoporosis, especially in aging populations. Moringa oleifera leaf extract has been shown to significantly enhance bone regeneration in critical-sized mandibular defects in rabbits, its osteogenic effects by stimulating osteoblast differentiation, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and inhibiting osteoclast activity. These findings support Moringa’s potential as a cost-effective, natural osteopromotive agent for bone regeneration.
Cardiovascular Health
Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and beta-carotene. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both key contributors to cardiovascular disease. Some animal and human studies have shown that Moringa can help reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides. Moringa exhibits mild diuretic properties and vasodilatory effects, which can help lower blood pressure.
Eye Health
Moringa leaves are a notable source of beta-carotene. Gram for gram, moringa leaves can have more beta-carotene than carrots, depending on their preparation and freshness. One study investigated the moringa stem’s effect on cataract formation in mice induced by oxidative stress. The result showed that Moringa stem alleviates oxidative stress-induced cataract formation, and the mechanism of the effect is predominantly related to its improvement of the endogenous antioxidant system in the lens.
Anaemia
Moringa leaves are an excellent source of iron and vitamin C (which enhances iron absorption). Animal studies have shown that moringa leaf extracts can boost red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels. Another study showed that supplementation with moringa leaf powder has shown improvements in hemoglobin levels in children and pregnant women with anemia.
Functional Constipation
Moringa has positive effect on functional constipation and can cure functional constipation. One detailed study has been published in journal frontiers in microbiology showed that moringa significantly reduced constipation symptoms like delayed defecation, low fecal water content, and inhibited intestinal motility. High and medium doses of MOAE shortened the time to first stool, increased fecal number and water content, and improved gastrointestinal transit rate. Moringa restored the balance of gut hormones and neurotransmitters disturbed by loperamide.
Other health conditions
Moringa exhibits a collective therapeutic potential against asthma, bacterial infections, and liver diseases. Its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects help alleviate asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation and improving respiratory function. The plant’s potent antimicrobial compounds, including isothiocyanates and flavonoids, combat a broad spectrum of bacterial pathogens, enhancing immune defense. Additionally, moringa demonstrates hepatoprotective activity by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver, thus supporting detoxification and tissue repair. Together, these multifaceted actions position moringa as a promising natural remedy for managing respiratory, infectious, and hepatic conditions.
Due to its combined properties such as boosting metabolism, improving gut health, providing antioxidants, and offering essential nutrients moringa is commonly used by many people as a natural aid for weight loss.
Conclusion
In conclusion, moringa stands out as a powerhouse of nutrition and a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids, it supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and may help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Whether consumed as a fresh leaf, powder, or supplement, moringa offers a natural and accessible way to enhance overall health. As scientific interest in moringa continues to grow, its traditional uses are increasingly supported by modern research, making it not just a super food, but a symbol of how nature and science can work together for better health
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