Description
Moringa by its scientific name Moringa pterygosperma is the most cultivated species of the Moringaceae family. Native to India and Sri Lanka, moringa would have been introduced in the Caribbean zone towards the end of the 19th century-beginning of the 20th century, a period which corresponds to the arrival of the Indians as substitute labor for the former African slaves. Since then the moringa is present throughout the tropics and subtropics of the planet.
The leaves are pinnate, oblong, the petiole is short. The leaflets, 6-9 pairs, small, opposite, pale above, caducous.
The flowers are numerous, white in color with a calyx with 5 divisions and 5 unequal and spatulate petals.
Therapeutic virtues
Known for its many medicinal benefits, moringa is nicknamed the plant that cures over 300 diseases in India where it is endemic. Containing all the nutrients necessary for life, it has been used in medicinal preparations for centuries.
All parts of moringa are edible, whether it is the leaves, seeds or even the leaves and even the roots! Moringa is considered a super food, namely a food beneficial for health, with effects superior to those of other foods.
Rich in vitamins A, B, C, proteins, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and iron, the consumption of moringa makes it possible to meet many recommended daily intakes by itself.
Moringa helps protect and nourish the skin and hair. It contains moisturizing and detoxifying elements that stimulate the skin and hair. It is also effective in the treatment of infections and skin wounds.
Its anti-inflammatory properties are effective in preventing the development of edema.
It protects the liver from damage caused by anti-tuberculosis drugs and can speed up its repair process.
One of the properties that attract the most is of course that of preventing the development of any type of cancer. This is because it contains niazimicine, a compound that suppresses the development of cancer cells.
Moringa helps to treat certain stomach disorders like constipation, gastritis, ulcerative colitis. The antibiotic and antibacterial properties of moringa can help inhibit the growth of various pathogens. Also, its high vitamin B content facilitates digestion.
Thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties, moringa extracts help fight infections caused by salmonella, rhizopus and E.coli.
The calcium and phosphorus it contains helps keep bones healthy and strong. Its anti-inflammatory properties help treat conditions such as arthritis and heal damaged bones.
Moringa is also useful in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Its powerful antioxidants help prevent heart damage. Moringa has been proven to help keep the heart healthy.
Moringa also helps close wounds and reduce the appearance of scars.
It is a plant that would be effective against diabetes by reducing the amount of glucose in the blood as well as sugar and protein in the urine. Moringa improved hemoglobin levels and protein content in those who were tested.
It is also effective in the treatment of certain asthma attacks and protects against bronchial constrictions. It has also been shown to improve lung function and breathing in general.
The body is less likely to develop stones in the kidneys, bladder, or uterus in people who ingest moringa extract. It contains powerful antioxidants that help fight against the levels of toxicity in the kidneys.
The isothiocyanate and niaziminine it contains helps prevent the arteries from thickening which can cause an increase in blood pressure.
Its high antioxidants help improve eyesight. Moringa can stop the dilation of retinal vessels, prevent thickening of capillary membranes, and inhibit retinal dysfunction.
Important information for the Black population, moringa allows the body to absorb more iron thus increasing its number of red blood cells. Thus it would be effective for the prevention of anemia but also the treatment of sickle cell disease.
Moringa can be consumed as tea, added to soups or sauces.
Other uses can be made of moringa. In effect, the seeds are used to purify water from mud by removing up to 99% of bacteria and germs or as a detergent.
The oil obtained from the seeds is very fine and never goes rancid. It is used by watchmakers and perfumers who use it to make essences. It is also appreciated for the manufacture of cosmetics, in particular soaps.
The juice obtained from the leaves can be used as a vegetable fertilizer.
How to grow it
Moringa is very easy to grow and adapts to any type of soil. The tree is fast growing, resistant to drought and can reach 10 meters in height.
If you want to grow moringa try to get some seeds and plant them. Watering it once in a while is enough to see the stems come out of the ground and the first leaves appear.
