Health Benefits of Moringa
A recent exposé on super foods that are beneficial to your body and the planet by BBC Health, revealed Moringa as one of them. Our tell-all guide highlights everything you need to know about it; from its surprising health benefits to how you can add it to your diet. Here’s the tea on Moringa!
What is Moringa?
Deemed to be one of the most nutritious plants in the world, Moringa is affectionately dubbed by nutritionists as the Tree of Life. The moringa tree flourishes in subtropical and tropical climates, especially in Asian countries like Sri Lanka and India, and the leaves are harvested up to seven times a year. Moringa leaves contain approximately 92 nutrients and 46 natural antioxidants; in other words, protein levels are twice as high as a banana, vitamin C equals to that found in 7 oranges and the leaves are teeming with 4 times more calcium than milk.
Health benefits of Moringa
What exactly is moringa good for and how does it help your health?
- It fights inflammation – Moringa leaves are known to reduce inflammation in cells that lead to the development of diseases like respiratory problems, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, obesity, etc.
- It supports brain health – The presence of antioxidants and neuro-enhancer activities in Moringa has proved to be beneficial to your brain’s cognitive function and its health. Additionally, vitamin E and C that’s found in abundance helps to normalize dopamine, neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline; all of which are significant in improving your mood, memory, and organ function.
- Moringa and weight loss - Although there have been no significant studies conducted around Moringa and how it aids in weight loss, there are reports indicating the weight loss benefits of those who take supplements containing moringa.
- Moringa and your skin – The natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal compounds found in Moringa can protect your skin from infections. Whether it’s reducing athlete’s foot, eradicating odors or eliminating dandruff, Moringa is powerful for your skin’s health.
Moringa Tea
Dried moringa leaves are steeped in hot water for a few minutes to create Moringa tea. Its health benefits are abundant and thus nourishing to your wellbeing. Additionally, the absence of caffeine in moringa tea adds to its list of health benefits mentioned above.
Sri Lanka and Moringa
Moringa thrives on the island, especially in the dry zones of Jaffna, Kalpitiya, Mahiyanganaya, and Monaragala. Due to its abundance, moringa is used in a variety of Sri Lankan dishes. The leaves are often added to a spicy crab curry or minced to create a ‘mallum’, while the pods are cooked as a vegetable and the bark of the tree has been used for traditional Ayurvedic medicines.
Dilmah and Moringa
In recognizing its wide variety of health benefits and the abundant supply of fresh moringa, Dilmah’s infusion of Red Rooibos, Moringa, Chilli, Cocoa & Cardamom; combines the refreshingly delicious flavours and nutritional benefits of each ingredient to create a perfect concoction. To make a cup of Moringa (tea) infusion, drop a teabag into a cup of hot water and let it brew for 3-5 minutes. Add a sweetener, if preferred before drinking it. Dilmah Infusions are handcrafted with love and packed with natural spices and herbs, making it the ideal beverage. Find out more about the health benefits of Ayurvedic ingredients used in our Infusions range.