Research | Plants: Moringa Oleifera

The Moringa is just as resilient as the Aloe Vera being able to withstand severe drought conditions. It is said to have originated from the foothills of the Himalayas in northwestern India. This tree grows in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of the earth. It is considered to be the most nutrient rich plant on earth.

The tree is able to reach heights between 32 and 40 ft and the trunk can reach diameter of up to 1.5 ft. The tree starts to flower in the first 6 months after being planted (from the seeds in the pods) and develops pods within eight months. Regular bearing starts after the second year.

The leaves, the pods and, even, the roots are harvested to produce a number of products for food and cosmetics.

Moringa - The Miracle Tree

According to Wikipedia,

The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant, being a significant source of B vitamins, vitamin C, provitamin A as beta-carotene, vitamin K, manganese, and protein, among other essential nutrients.[3][20][21] When compared with common foods particularly high in certain nutrients per 100 g fresh weight, cooked moringa leaves are considerable sources of these same nutrients. Some of the calcium in moringa leaves is bound as crystals of calcium oxalate[22] though at levels 1/25th to 1/45th of that found in spinach, which is a negligible amount.

The leaves are cooked and used like spinach and are commonly dried and crushed into a powder used in soups and sauces.

The benefits of Moringa are as follows:

Increase physical energy
Brings about faster recovery - The amino profile and the vitamins and minerals helps the body to recover from physical strain and grueling workouts.
Maintains healthy blood - antioxidants and unique regulating compounds help control blood sugar and keep the blood free of unhealthy substances.

Reference

Moringa ... The Miracle Tree by Alfred Whittaker (Glenleigh)

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