The new superfood on the block

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The new superfood on the block

Friday, 23 November 2018 | Preety Tyagi

The new superfood on the block

Health coach Preety Tyagi charts out the benefits of consuming moringa daily 

The medicinal herb moringa, also known as horseradish tree or drumstick tree, has entered the echelons of superfoods. Its incredible medicinal usage which is claimed by many cultures and communities are now being confirmed by science. Through research, the moringa leaves were found to contain many essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals and anti-inflammatory agents.

Research shows that just about every part of the plant can be utilised in some way, be it the fruits, seeds, leaves, bark or roots, everything is used in treating various conditions. It has shown to act as an anti-diabetic agent. A research demonstrated that a single dose of four grams of moringa leaves powder capsules significantly increased insulin secretion in healthy people without any adverse effects on liver and kidney function.

It also possesses potential therapeutic effects to fight cancers, arthritis and even reduce tumors. A study published in 2011 by Asian pacific journal of cancer prevention showed that administration of moringa powder reduced the incidence and multiplicity of tumors by a significant rate hence establishing it as a potential chemo-preventive agent.

Such high antioxidant content of moringa leaves is because of polyphenols, phytochemicals and flavonols make it an effective anti-inflammatory agent. Inflammation can lead to chronic diseases like diabetes, respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and obesity. They suppress inflammatory enzymes and proteins in the body and therefore reduce inflammation to a great extent.

Moringa even works as a great anti-ageing agent by balancing hormones and improving skin health. The antibacterial and antifungal properties help in protecting the skin from various conditions such as acne breakouts, removing dandruff and healing burns and wounds.

One easy way in to include moringa in your routine is by consuming it in form of powder or capsule. Here’s a healthy detox smoothie recipe, to start your day with Moringa to gain the associated health benefits:

Moringa green smoothie

Ingredients:

l ¼ cup spinach or kale leaves

l 1/2 banana

l ½ apple

l 6 almonds

l 1 date

l ½ cup coconut water

l ½ tsp moringa leaves powder

l 1 cup ice

Directions:

Place all smoothie ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.

Pour into a glass and drink it within 10-15 minutes of preparing.

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