Moringa

MORINGA

moringa nutrition

Moringa oleifera, also called the drumstick tree, is a tree that grows in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India. It is also cultivated throughout Central and South America and Africa due to the ease with which it grows in tropical and sub-tropical environments.

While moringa remains relatively unknown in the West, it has developed a reputation in its native lands for its unusually high nutritional value. Indeed, health researchers have started to give it nicknames such as “The Miracle Tree” and “The Elixir of Long Life” due to its miraculous healing abilities. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of moringa and see whether these names are justified.

Moringa’s health benefits

Antioxidant activity – According to analysis, the powdered leaves of the moringa tree (which is the way most people consume moringa) contains 46 types of antioxidants. One serving, in fact, contains 22 percent of our recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants on Earth, and a whopping 272 percent of our RDI of vitamin A. Antioxidants help to neutralize the devastating impact of free radicals, thereby guarding us from cancer and degenerative diseases such as macular degeneration and cystic fibrosis.

Rich in amino acids – The leaves of the moringa tree contain 18 amino acids, eight of which are essential amino acids, making them a “complete” protein – a rarity in the plant world. Indeed, moringa’s protein content rivals that of meat, making it an excellent source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. Protein is, of course, needed to build muscle, cartilage, bones, skin and blood and is also needed to produce enzymes and hormones.

Calcium and magnesium – One serving of moringa leaves provides us with approximately 125 percent of our RDI of calcium and 61 percent of our RDI of magnesium. These two trace minerals work in synergy; while calcium is needed to build strong bones and teeth, we also need magnesium to help us absorb it. Since moringa contains generous quantities of both, it is especially good at guarding us from osteoporosis and other bone conditions.

Extensive nutrient concentrations – Moringa leaves contain 90 different types of nutrients, including four times more calcium than milk, four times more potassium than bananas, four times more vitamin A than carrots, 50 times more vitamin B3 than peanuts, 36 times more magnesium than eggs, and 25 times more iron than spinach. It also includes high amounts of additional nutrients such as dietary fiber, iodine, lutein, zinc, selenium, zeatin and beta-carotene.

Produces a healthy oil – Although moringa is mostly celebrated for its leaves, its seeds also have a worthwhile purpose: the pods contain almost 40 percent of an edible, non-drying oil called “ben oil,” which is comparable to olive oil in nutritional and antioxidant value. Ben oil is odorless, sweet-tasting, clear and – most importantly – lasts indefinitely. In fact, moringa leaf powder is also immune from spoiling, making both the tree’s oil and leaves excellent survival foods.

Nourishes the skin – Due to their trace mineral content, dried and powdered moringa leaves are great for nourishing the skin. Indeed, more and more cosmetic companies are starting to include moringa extracts in their products for this reason. Moringa creams and lotions can be applied topically on the desired areas, thus allowing the nutrients to soak into, and rejuvenate, the skin.

Regularly consuming moringa leaves has also been linked to lower blood pressure, improved digestion and mood, immune-boosting effects and, thanks to their high fiber levels and low fat and calorie levels, weight loss.

Moringa Oleifera contains more than 92 nutrients and 46 types of antioxidants. Moringa  is said to cure about three hundred diseases and almost have all the vitamins found in fruits and vegetables. Even in a larger proportions. With all the health benefits of this miracle herb, it can easily be termed as the most nutritious herb on Earth. There are no side-effects which also has tried, tested, documented and proved evidence to support the same. It can be consumed by small children and adults. Today, millions world over have started using Moringa based products in porridge, pastas, bread and to reap the everlasting health benefits of the extraordinary ‘Moringa’ herb.

Some Facts about Moringa- (Excerpt From The Book “Miracle Tree” by Author Monica G.Marcu,Pharm.D., PH.D.)

• 92 Nutrients
• 46 Antioxidants
• 36 Anti-Inflammatories
• 18 Amino Acids, 9 Essential Amino Acids
• Nourishes The Immune System
• Promotes Healthy Circulation
• Supports Normal Glucose Levels
• Natural Anti-Aging Benefits
• Provides Anti-Inflammatory Support
• Promotes Healthy Digestion
• Promotes Heightened Mental Clarity
• Boosts Energy Without Caffeine
• Encourages Balanced Metabolism
• Promotes Softer Skin
• Provides Relief From Acne
• Supports Normal Hormone Levels
Rare for a plant source –Moringa leaves contain all the essential amino acids to build strong healthy bodies.

Examples of some few nutritional value of Moringa- ( Gram-for-gram comparison of nutritional data)

  • 2times –the Protein of Yogurt
  • 3times – the Potassium of Bananas
  • 4times – the Calcium of Milk
  • 4times – the Vitamin A of Carrots
  • 7times –the Vitamin C of Oranges

The Vitamin component of Moringa Leaves:

Moringa has Vitamin A (Beta Carotene), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B6 Pyrodixine), Vitamin B7 (Biotin), Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and Vitamin K.

Vitamin A (Beta Carotene), Vitamin A is a vitamin which is needed by the retina of the eye in the form of a specific metabolite, the light-absorbing molecule retinal. This molecule is absolutely necessary for both “Scotopic”scotopic and color vision. Vitamin A also functions in a very different role, as an irreversibly oxidized form retinoic acid, which is an important hormone-like growth factor for epithelial and other cells.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) helps fuel the body by converting blood sugar into energy. It keeps the mucous membranes healthy and is essential for nervous system, cardiovascular and muscular function.

Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin) is required for a wide variety of cellular processes.   Like the other B vitamins, it plays a key role in energy metabolism, and for the metabolism of fats, ketone bodies, carbohydrates, and proteins.  It is the central component of the cofactors FAD and FMN, and is therefore required by all  “Flavoprotein”flavoproteins.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin), like all B complex vitamins, are necessary for healthy skin, hair, eyes, and liver. They also help the nervous system function properly.  Niacin also helps the body make various sex and stress-related hormones in the adrenal glands and other parts of the body. Niacin is effective in improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels in the blood.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is required for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine and for myelin formation. Pyridoxine deficiency in adults principally affects the peripheral nerves, skin, mucous membranes, and the blood cell system. In children, the central nervous system (CNS) is also affected. Deficiency can occur in people with uremia, alcoholism, cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption syndromes, congestive heart failure (CHF), and in those taking certain medications.

Vitamin B7
(Biotin) has vital metabolic functions. Without biotin as a co-factor, many enzymes do not work properly, and serious complications can occur, including varied diseases of the skin, intestinal tract, and nervous system. Biotin can help address high blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes, and is helpful in maintaining healthy hair and nails, decreasing insulin resistance and improving glucose tolerance, and possibly preventing birth defects. It plays a role in energy metabolism, and has been used to treat alopecia, cancer, Crohn’s disease, hair loss, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathy, Rett syndrome, seborrheic dermatitis, and vaginal candidiasis.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)is one of the safest and most effective nutrients, experts say. It may not be the cure for the common cold (though it’s thought to help prevent more serious complications). But the benefits of vitamin C may include protection against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems, eye disease, and even skin wrinkling.

Vitamin D (Cholecalciferol)  is essential for promoting calcium absorption in the gut and maintaining adequate serum calcium and phosphate concentrations to enable normal mineralization of bone and prevent hypocalcemic tetany. It is also needed for bone growth and bone remodeling by osteoblasts and osteoclasts . Without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, or misshapen. Vitamin D sufficiency prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Together with calcium, vitamin D also helps protect older adults from osteoporosis.  Vitamin D has other roles in human health, including modulation of neuromuscular and immune function and reduction of inflammation.

Vitamin E
describes a family of 8 antioxidants, 4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols. alpha-tocopherol (a-tocopherol) is the only form of vitamin E that is actively maintained in the human body and is therefore, the form of vitamin E found in the largest quantities in the blood and tissue.  Vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin, protects vitamin A and essential fatty acids from oxidation in the body cells and prevents breakdown of body tissues.

Vitamin K is necessary for normal clotting of blood in humans. Specifically, vitamin K is required for the liver to make factors that are necessary for blood to properly clot (coagulate), including factor II (prothrombin), factor VII (proconvertin), factor IX (thromboplastin component), and factor X (Stuart factor). Other clotting factors that depend on vitamin K are protein C, protein S, and protein Z. Deficiency of vitamin K or disturbances of liver function (for example, severe liver failure) may lead to deficiencies of clotting factors and excess bleeding.

Amino Acids:  The foundation of our body.

Our bodies need twenty different amino acids or proteins that are the building blocks for a healthy body. Nonessential amino acids are those that the body can synthesize for itself, provided there is enough nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen available. Essential amino acids are those supplied by the diet.  They must be consumed as the human body either cannot make them at all or cannot make them in sufficient quantity to meet its needs. ?Of the 20 amino acids required by our bodies, eleven of them are nonessential and nine are essential.

Functions of Amino Acids: Proteins act as enzymes , hormones , and antibodies . They maintain fluid balance and acid and base balance. They also transport substances such as oxygen, vitamins and minerals to target cells throughout the body. Structural proteins, such as collagen and keratin, are responsible for the formation of bones, teeth, hair, and the outer layer of skin and they help maintain the structure of blood vessels and other tissues.
Enzymes are proteins that facilitate chemical reactions without being changed in the process. Hormones (chemical messengers) are proteins that travel to one or more specific target tissues or organs, and many have important regulatory functions. Insulin , for example, plays a key role in regulating the amount of glucose in the blood. The body manufactures antibodies (giant protein molecules), which combat invading antigens. Antigens are usually foreign substances such as bacteria and viruses that have entered the body and could potentially be harmful. Immunoproteins, also called immunoglobulins or antibodies, defend the body from possible attack by these invaders by binding to the antigens and inactivating them.

If these critical components for a healthy body are not provided as part of a healthy diet, the body will look for other sources for them.  This can include breakdown of our organs, leading to chronic problems such as liver and kidney problems, diabetes and heart disease among others.

MORINGA AS FOOD Moringa is considered a complete food as it contains all of the essential Amino Acids required for a healthy body.  The dried leaf is a nutritional powerhouse and contains all of the following Amino Acids.

ISOLEUCINE
builds proteins and enzymes and it provides ingredients used to create other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which promote energy and stimulate the brain to maintain a state of alertness.

LEUCINE
works with isoleucine to build proteins and enzymes which enhance the body’s energy and alertness.

LYSINE ensures your body absorbs the right amount of calcium. It also helps form collagen used in bone cartilage and connective tissues. In addition, lysine aids in the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes. Recent studies have shown lysine improves the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth.

METHIONINE primarily supplies sulfur to your body. It is known to prevent hair,

skin, and nail problems while lowering cholesterol levels as it increases the liver’s production of lecithin. Methionine reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys, which reduces bladder irritation.

PHENYLALAINE produces the chemical needed to transmit signals between nerve cells and the brain. It can help with concentration and alertness, reduce hunger pains and improve memory and mood.

THREONINE is an important part of collagen, elastin, and enamel proteins.  It assists metabolism and helps prevent fat build-up in the liver while boosting the body’s digestive and intestinal tracts.

TRYPTOPHAN supports the immune system, alleviates insomnia, reduces anxiety, depression, and the symptoms of migraine headaches. It also is beneficial in decreasing the risk of artery and heart spasms as it works with lysine to reduce cholesterol levels.

VALINE is important in promoting a sharp mind, coordinated muscles, and a calm mood.

Non-essential amino acids in Moringa

ALANINE is important for energy in muscle tissue, brain, and central nervous system. It strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies. Alanine also helps in the healthy metabolism of sugars and organic acids in the body.
ARGININE causes the release of the growth hormones considered crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair. It also improves immune responses to bacteria, viruses, and tumor cells while promoting the healing of the body’s wounds.

ASPARTIC ACID helps rid the body of ammonia created by cellular waste. When the ammonia enters the circulatory system it can act as a highly toxic substance which can damage the central nervous system. Recent studies have also shown that aspartic acid may decrease fatigue and increase endurance.

CYSTINE functions as an antioxidant and is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. It can help slow the aging process, deactivate free radicals, and neutralize toxins. It also aids in protein synthesis and presents cellular change. It is necessary for the formation of new skin cells, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations.

GLUTAMIC ACID is food for the brain. It improves mental capacities, helps speed the healing of ulcers, reduces fatigue, and curbs sugar cravings.

GLYCINE promotes the release of oxygen required in the cell-making process. It is also important in the manufacturing of hormones responsible for a strong immune system.

HISTIDINE is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, ulcers, and anemia. A lack of histidine may lead to poor hearing.

SERINE is important in storing glucose in the liver and muscles. Its antibodies help strengthen the body’s immune system. Plus, it synthesizes fatty acid sheaths around nerve fibers.

PROLINE
is extremely important for the proper function of your joints and tendons. It also helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.

TYROSINE transmits nerve impulses to your brain. It helps overcome depression; improves memory; increases mental alertness; plus promotes the healthy functioning of the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands.

Moringa Oleifera: The Many Ways This Supplement Benefits You

It seems there is a new health supplement released on the market almost daily, each making its claims of amazing health and weight loss benefits. Sadly, a majority of these products fail to live up to their promises, leaving you both broke and disappointed. Here is the good news, however. Moringa oleifera is on the scene, and its claims appear to be spot on. If it makes you feel better, world renowned cardiologist and talk show host Dr. Mehmet Oz featured this supplement on his show.

1. The Tree of Life

Moringa trees are often referred to as the tree of life because of their medicinal uses over the span of many centuries. Native to the Himalayans, this tree is now grown in East Africa, India, the Philippines and both Central and South America. Every part of the tree is used, from the leaves, to the small and large pods, both of which can be eaten like nuts. In developing tropical countries, Moringa oleifera is used to treat and prevent malnutrition in nursing mothers and infants.

2. Nutritional Benefits

Moringa oleifera is a superfood to beat all superfoods, even in its supplement form. The amount of anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins and minerals it contains is everything your body needs and more. No other supplement is even remotely comparable. Scientific research proves that one serving of moringa oleifera provides you with seven times the amount of vitamin C in oranges, four times the calcium in milk, four times the vitamin A in carrots, two times the protein in milk and three times the potassium found in bananas. Or how about trying this on for size? Each supplemental serving contains more than 90 different vitamins and minerals. Let’s say we move on to the individual health benefits?

heart-health

3. Moringa Oleifera and Blood Pressure

If you suffer from high blood pressure, taking this supplement may just be the answer for you. It contains four vital compounds your body requires for a healthy blood pressure: Niacin A1 and A5, and vitamins B3 and B10. There is a second piece to this puzzle, though, and it is the nutrients necessary to support your body’s production of nitric oxide. These include magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium and vitamin E. When your nitric oxide levels are healthy, blood flows properly through your blood vessels, thus reducing your blood pressure.

4. Moringa Oleifera and Cancer

Cancer is the result of free radicals taking control of your tissues and bloodstream, damaging your cells and causing cancer growth. The anti-oxidants in moringa oleifera supplements go on a search and destroy mission, squashing all the free radicals that increase your risk of certain types of this deadly disease.

5. Moringa Oleifera and Energy

Increased energy is one of the health benefits this supplement is best known for. You do not experience the average ups and downs or highs and lows that other supplements or energy products cause. However, you do receive a nice start to your day, or a great pick-me-up right before your workout.

6. Moringa Oleifera and Gastric Ulcers

Gastric ulcers are not only painful, but can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. Several medical studies have been performed which identify the positive effects of moringa oleifera leaves for not only relieving the symptoms of this condition, but also for improving it. Doctors believe the anti-inflammatories reduce the inflammation in the capillaries, while the anti-oxidants remove free radicals, allowing for healthy cells to move in and take over.

7. Moringa Oleifera and Mood

This all-natural supplement helps relieve stress and improve your mood, making for a healthier you. The secret is in the tryptophan it contains, an amino acid your body requires for serotonin and niacin production; you know, those feel-good hormones. The combination of the tryptophan, calcium and protein in moringa oleifera makes it a virtual powerhouse of happiness.

 

8. Moringa Oleifera and Mental Clarity

The ability to think clearly and concentrate is a must no matter what your job. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, or a CEO of a large corporation, you must be on your toes every minute. Your level of mental clarity depends on two minerals: iron and zinc. The iron is responsible for the amount of oxygen your brain receives, while the zinc controls the amount of activity between the right and left hemispheres of your brain. Moringa oleifera supplements contain both of these, and in astonishing amounts.

9. Moringa Oleifera and Anti-Aging

If you ever wished you could turn back the hands of time, now is your chance. Taking this supplements allows you to do just this. The older you become, the less your cells regenerate. You also produce less collagen and elastin, the two most important elements of firm skin. The anti-oxidants in moringa oleifera stop free radicals in their tracks, while the numerous proteins accelerate the regrowth of new cells. Additionally, the vitamin A it contains assists in the production of collagen and elastin, helping firm your skin and rid it of unsightly wrinkles.

10. Moringa Oleifera and Weight Loss

Ah yes, weight loss. This is what you have been waiting for, isn’t it? The truth is, this supplement helps you lose weight in more ways than one. First, it suppresses your appetite. Obviously if you are not hungry, you are not going to overeat. This is the rule of thumb anyway. Next, it increases your energy levels, as we discussed earlier. The more energy you have, the more calories you will burn. Finally, since moringa oleifera helps improve your mood, you may be less likely to eat even when not hungry. Some emotional eaters will tell you they eat whether the urge is present or not. You do not have to worry if stress is not resting on your shoulders.

RESEARCH ON MORINGA BENEFITS IN CANCER 

Antiproliferation and induction of

apoptosis by Moringa oleifera leaf

extract on human cancer cells.

Abstract

Medicinal plants provide an inexhaustible source of anticancer drugs in terms of both variety and mechanism of action. Induction of apoptosis is the key success of plant products as anticancer agents. The present study was designed to determine the antiproliferative and apoptotic events of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MLE) using human tumor (KB) cell line as a model system. KB cells were cultured in the presence of leaf extracts at various concentrations for 48 h and the percentage of cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay. MLE showed a dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation of KB cells. The antiproliferative effect of MLE was also associated with induction of apoptosis as well as morphological changes and DNA fragmentation. The morphology of apoptotic nuclei was quantified using DAPI and propidium iodide staining. The degree of DNA fragmentation was analyzed using agarose gel electrophoresis. In addition, MLE at various concentrations was found to induce ROS production suggesting modulation of redox-sensitive mechanism. Eventually, HPTLC analysis indicated the presence of phenolics such as quercetin and kaempferol. Thus, these findings suggest that the leaf extracts from M. oleifera had strong antiproliferation and potent induction of apoptosis. Thus, it indicates that M. oleifera leaf extracts has potential for cancer chemo prevention and can be claimed as a therapeutic target for cancer.