Moringa oleifera is native to northern India. Popularly called "Moringa," it is known in Jamaica as the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, benzoil tree, and the "miracle tree" in some countries. It is also found in other tropical and subtropical regions such as Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

The plant contains many important vitamins and minerals. The leaves have seven times the amount of vitamin C found in oranges and fifteen times more potassium than bananas. It also contains calcium, protein, iron, and amino acids that assist the body to heal and build muscle. It is packed with antioxidants that can protect cells from damage and may boost your immune system. There is some evidence that certain antioxidants can also lower blood pressure and reduce fat in the blood and body.

Traditional Uses

It has been traditionally used for conditions such as:

1. Diabetes
2. Long-lasting inflammation
3. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections
4. Joint pain
5. Heart health
6. Cancer

Research

It has been the subject of much research on its effects on animals, but it is not yet clear the degree to which it would have the same impact on humans. Research is still ongoing regarding exactly how extracts from this plant affect people, but early studies show it may help with the following:

1. Rheumatoid arthritis: Moringa leaf extract may lower fluid swelling, redness, and pain.
2. Diabetes: Insulin-like proteins found in moringa may help lower blood sugar, and plant chemicals found in the leaves might help the body better process sugar as well as affect how the body releases insulin.
3. Cancer: There have been reports indicating that in lab tests, leaf extracts slowed the growth of pancreatic cancer cells and helped chemotherapy work better. Other lab studies show that moringa leaves, bark, and roots all have anti-cancer effects that might lead to new drugs.
4. Memory: Some experts think the antioxidants and other health-promoting plant chemicals may heal stress and inflammation in the brain.

Additional Areas of Research

Research is being conducted to determine its effectiveness with the following conditions:

1. Cholesterol
2. Arthritis
3. Diarrhea
4. Anemia
5. High blood pressure
6. Liver conditions induced by the use of medicines
7. Stomach ulcers
8. Asthma
9. Wound healing
10. Ulcerative colitis
11. Weight Loss

Safety

Initial research shows that it is generally safe to eat the leaves or young seed pods, but it can be dangerous to eat the bark or pulp, especially for pregnant women. Chemicals in the bark may cause the uterus to contract and lead to a miscarriage.

Byproducts made from the plant are sold as supplements in the form of a powder, pill, oil, or tea. These products made from moringa, like many other supplements, aren't regulated by the FDA. This means that there is no available guidance for the amount required for desired health benefits or a standard for how it should be manufactured.

It is best to avoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement including Moringa, especially if you are taking any medications.

How is Moringa Tea Made?

Moringa herbal tea is made by steeping moringa leaves in pure hot water. This tea can also be prepared using moringa leaf powder and tea bags. It is naturally caffeine-free and can be consumed at any time of the day.