Should I take moringa regularly?
And, if so, how should I take it, and why?
Learn more about what moringa is, moringa nutrition and what the benefits and risk are.
Photo: Getty Images/Westend61
Here’s what the science says.
What is moringa?
All parts of this small treeleaves, seeds, aroots, and flowersare technically edible.
“Every part of the tree is used either for nutritive or commercial purposes,” she explains.
In fact, a review in the journalFood Science and Human Wellnessfound thatM.
Moringa is also known for its phytochemical content.
What is moringa used for?
Moringa has long been used for medicinal purposes.
A less common form of moringa-moringa oil, also called ben oil-is also available.
The entire plant is edible, from roots to leaves, but it does have a bitter taste.
That can make it difficult for many people to enjoy in everyday foods.
Cooking moringa has benefits that extend beyond its taste too.
What are the health benefits of moringa?
Moringa seeds contain a variety of well-known health-promoting compounds.
Moringa oil (extracted from the seeds) is mostly made up of monounsaturated fatsa well-known heart-healthy fat.
And in animal studies, moringa compounds appear to trigger the pancreas to release insulin.
Plus, two compounds in preliminary research suggest it has anti-tumor properties.
That said, that’s typically how research on a food like moringa begins.
Once there’s research that “works,” more is usually to comeand in actual people.
Is moringa safe?
“Moringa is classified as a ‘nutritive herb,'” Barmmer says.
However, the phytate found in moringa can cause adverse reactions if consumed in high quantities.
Too much iron can cause gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting and constipation.
Dietary supplements, unlike nutrients, don’t have a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).
However, individual factors play a role in the quantity that is safe to consume.
