The Moringa tree, traditionally known as the “Tree of Life” or “Miracle Tree,” is a fast-growing, deciduous, and slender plant. It can grow from 6 to 12 meters tall and produce small, delicate leaflets in a pinnate formation. Its flowers are creamy white to yellowish, fragrant, and bloom in clusters. It also produces long, three-sided pods containing oily, winged seeds (known as drumsticks).
This herb is known for being nutrient-dense and rich in minerals compared to many other herbs.

Origins and Traditional Use
Moringa oleifera originated in the Himalayas, Northern India, Pakistan, and Nepal. Its 13 species are native to Africa and throughout most of Asia, where they have been a source of food, medicine, and symbolism.

India
In 2000BC, traditional doctors in Northern India called it “The Miracle Tree.” Members of royal families or nobility took Moringa for its benefits to alertness and to promote clear complexions. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine incorporated it as an important part of its practice. It’s said that the oil was rubbed over the skin to treat rashes and even paralysis.
In other regions, its pod oil was used to treat convulsions and paralysis in infants, and the seeds were used to treat diabetes.
Not only was it consumed for its general health benefits, but the extract of the tree was given to fighters on war fronts, as it was believed to give strength and improve stamina while relieving stress and easing pain from injuries sustained in the battlefield.

Africa
In Africa, moringa was commonly consumed for malnutrition, and the seed pods were crushed and used to purify the water. In West Africa the plant was used to treat infections, fevers, and malaria.

Egypt, Greece, and Rome
In Egypt, moringa was mostly valued for its beneficial oil. It is said that jars of the oil have been found in the tombs of ancient Egyptians and that it was used to protect their skin from harsh conditions. It was later introduced in Greece and Rome, where moringa was commonly used in perfumery.
The further traditional uses of the plant include The bark juice is used as a disinfectant and to treat headaches, constipation, back and muscle pain, labor pain, and burns. The leaves were used for wound healing and the seeds for abdominal pain. The roots and leaves for hypertension, malaria, asthma, stomach disorders, and to expel retained placenta. The oil is used for skin concerns such as rashes, itchiness, and scabies.

Modern-Day Use
Today Moringa is a herb used worldwide for its amazing benefits, and with modern research and further understanding of the herb, it’s become very popular as a supplement and cosmetic product. Many people take it as a powder or capsule or use the oil on their face/body.

Vitamins and Minerals
Moringa is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E; iron; potassium; calcium; and magnesium, and it is a rich source of protein, which is produced through its nine essential amino acids. Dried moringa leaves contain roughly 25%-30% protein by weight.
Moringa is commonly taken to improve energy levels, balance blood sugar, reduce inflammation in the body, and increase intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Cells and Back pain
Moringa also has the ability to support cell turnover and regeneration through compounds within Moringa that promote proliferation and differentiation of healthy cells. When it comes to recovery from injuries or sickness, this can be of great benefit. With conditions like disc bulges, herniations, or degeneration, cell turnover is crucial for the rehydration of the discs, and herbs like moringa have been studied and shown to do this while also reducing the inflammation of the disc itself. This can lead to reduction of overall back pain and joint pain.
Moringa also has had research into its anti-cancer potential. While research is limited into its direct effects upon cancer cells in humans, its active compounds, specifically isothiocyanates, have the potential to combat cancer through inducing apoptosis, inhibiting proliferation, and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Hydration
Moringa can help hydrate the body by increasing potassium and magnesium levels, which are lost through sweating or dryness. It can also help with water retention by assisting the kidneys in flushing excess water from the body.

Inflammation
Moringa is a herb that helps combat internal inflammation. It contains bioactive compounds such as isothiocyanates, quercetin, and kaempferol that regulate inflammatory signalling pathways and inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes. When it comes to oxidative stress and pain, which can trigger inflammatory responses and vice versa, moving helps redirect or shut down these responses, improving the body’s ability to recover adequately with the right nutrients and compounds.
Moringa is an incredible herb with a worldwide reputation. Throughout many cultures today, moringa is used in many ways, such as a reliable food source, tea, powder, oil, and even alternative medicine.

Moringa Oleifera Flowers

*This information is based on nontraditional benefits and current research. Please consult a healthcare professional for any medical advice surrounding this herb, and always take caution when trying something for the first time.