02 Apr The Miracle Tee

The story of the benefits of the moringa tree has been told many years ago as far back as 2,000 B.C., and also reflected in ancient Indian writings dating around 150 B.C. This story has gained prominence since the 1970s when scientists started conducting significant research to substantiate the claims that were made. The Moringa story is a remarkable one of a humble plant that made strides in the ancient world for many years and whose secrets are being made available to modern science. With discoveries made so far, Moringa is reputed to be one of the most nutrient-rich plants that provide a rich and rare combination of nutrients, amino acids, antioxidants, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties with many health benefits in contrast to other plants which may have one or two benefits only. No wonder the plant is referred to as a powerhouse of health and nutritional value.

Moringa was prized for its therapeutic properties and was used by the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians to manufacture skin care products and for water purification. Modern science, in substantiating the claims, has discovered the incredible range of natural nutrients it contains.

Moringa Oleifera is the best known of the thirteen species of the genus Moringacae. Known by many names throughout the world such as Drumstick Tree, Benzolive, Kelor, Marango, Mlonge, Mulanggay, Saijhan and Sajna, but also fondly known as “The Miracle Tree” for reasons that will shortly become obvious.

It has for many years been cultivated and used as traditional medicine for a range of ailments throughout semi-arid, and tropical areas of Africa, the Indian sub-continent, Thailand, the Phillipines to South America. These include Anaemia, Anxiety, Asthma, Blood impurities, Blood pressure, Bronchitis, Catarrh, Chest congestion, Cholera, Colitis, Conjunctivitis, Diabetes, Diarrhoea, Eye and ear infections, Fever, Glandular swelling, Hysteria, Intestinal worms, Jaundice, Lactation, Malaria, Pain in joints, Pregnancy, Psoriasis, Respiratory disorders, Stomach ulcers, Tuberculosis Tumour, Urinary disorders and more.

Moringa is a plant native to the Himalayan region of India. It is a very hardy and fast growing tree that can grow even in depleted soil as it is a nitrogen fetching tree with deep tapping roots that feed the soil. With its high levels of many nutrients it is seen as an essential health supplement for the body.

It has been highly valued throughout history for its healing properties and its ability to reverse malnutrition and to purify water. It is used today by many including the World Health Organisation who successfully use Moringa to combat malnutrition.

This Superfood is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, omega oils and a bounty of amino acids including all the 8 essentials that the human body needs, all in one humble tree.  Moringa Oleifera is also a good source of protein, vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids and various phenolics. The Moringa plant provides a rich and rare combination of zeatin (anti-aging), quercetin (anti-cancer), beta-sitosterol (anti-inflammatory / cholesterol / cancer), caffeoylquinic acid (anti-inflammatory) and kaempferol (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardioprotective among others). In fact, there are over 46 antioxidants and 36 anti-inflammatory compounds all naturally occurring in the Moringa plant. That is why it is referred to as the best natural source of anti-oxidants.

In short, you can expect the following when drinking moringa in your smoothie, or as a hot or cold tea:

• 47 Antioxidants
• 36 Anti-inflammatories
• 25 Vitamins & Minerals
• 27% Plant-based protein
• All 8 essential Amino Acids

Fresh leaf vs Dried leaf

When Moringa leaves are dried and turned into powder form, its potency increases. A dried Moringa leaf has three to five times more nutrients than a fresh leaf. The mineral concentrations of dried leaf powder increases due to water loss. Another advantage of dried leaf powder is that it has a longer stored shelf-life.