A healthy lifestyle is the foundation for a healthy human life. It is our responsibility as human beings to strive for this. Moringa is one of the herbs that can contribute to such a disease-free life and promote overall well-being.
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While the drumstick (Moringa oleifera) may be familiar to many, its incredible range of benefits might surprise you! From leaves and pods enjoyed by people of all ages to flowers, seeds, bark, and even roots, every part of the Moringa plant boasts various medicinal properties and a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants. It has more than 40 natural antioxidants.
Moringa leaves
Moringa leaves contain more Vitamin A than carrots, more calcium than milk, more iron than spinach,
more Vitamin C than oranges, and more potassium than bananas,” and that the protein quality of Moringa leaves rivals that of milk and eggs.
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Its versatile offerings include antispasmodic, expectorant, antipyretic, and stimulant properties. The flowers add astringent, emmenagogue, and tonic qualities, while the bark holds potential abortifacient effects.
Theraiyar says this in his book Theraiyar Kappiyam
முருங்கைக் காய்க்கறி முகிளிலை வேர்கொள
வொருங்குள நோயெலா மோடவுந் துரத்தும்.
Moringa and moringa leaves should be consumed properly as food and medicine, they will strengthen the body.
Medicinal uses of moringa (drumstick)
- Dog bites: Grind two cloves of garlic, a piece of turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix with Moringa leaves and administer internally to help break up pus. Apply the paste to the wound to promote healing and drainage.
- Eye pain: Applying Moringa leaf juice to the eyes may offer temporary relief from mild discomfort. (Disclaimer: Consult a doctor for persistent or severe eye pain.)
- Diuretic and digestive properties: Consuming Moringa leaf juice can promote digestion and urination.
- Headache: Crushing Moringa leaves and pepper, then applying the paste to the forehead may soothe headaches. (Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor for persistent or severe headaches.)
- Emetic properties: Consuming large amounts of Moringa leaf extract (36g) can induce vomiting.
- Swelling reduction: Applying a paste made from ground Moringa leaves to a swollen area may help reduce inflammation.
- Physical strength and masculinity: Moringa flowers are sometimes added to herbal remedies traditionally believed to support physical strength and male vitality.
- The seeds can increase the sperm count in men.
- Pickled flowers: Moringa flowers, soaked in vinegar and spices, can be enjoyed as a pickle.
- Edible pods and young flowers: Young Moringa pods and flowers can be cooked and eaten, providing valuable nutrients.
- Fruit: Mature Moringa pods are commonly cooked and served as a vegetable or curry.
Additional uses of drumstick (moringa)
- Seed oil: An oil extracted from the seeds can have pain-relieving properties.
- Poultice for swellings: Grind a measure of Moringa seeds, mustard seeds, hemp seeds, and barley with curd. Spread the paste on the affected area to address pain and swelling.
- Earache relief: Dissolve Moringa resin in oil and apply it to the ear to potentially soothe earaches.
- Root juice mixture: Moringa root juice mixed with milk in appropriate amounts may offer relief from hiccups, indigestion, gout, internal organ swelling, and back pain.
Disadvantages of moringa (drum stick)
Consuming excessive amounts of Moringa leaves, pods, flowers, buds, seeds, bark, and roots can have negative side effects.
- Drug interactions: Moringa might interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and thyroid medications. Consulting a healthcare professional before consuming moringa if you’re on medication is crucial.
- Potential side effects: While generally safe for most people, some individuals might experience side effects like diarrhoea, stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting, especially at high doses.
- Contamination risks: Improperly sourced or processed moringa could be contaminated with bacteria, parasites, or heavy metals. Purchasing from reputable sources and ensuring proper hygiene during preparation is essential.
How to make moringa tuber water
Ingredients:
Moringa tuber
Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Vasambu (Acorus calamus)
Chitramoolam (Plumbago zeylanica)
Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida)
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans)
Instructions:
Mix all the ingredients in equal quantities. Add the mixture to water and bring to a boil. Drink the decoction regularly to relieve stomach pain.
Moringa leaf curry
Ingredients:
50 grams of sesame oil cake
A handful of moringa leaves
5 betel leaves
1 piece of nutmeg
Instructions:
Pound the sesame oil cake, moringa leaves, betel leaves, and nutmeg together. Boil the mixture and drink one cup daily.
Benefits:
Helps prevent osteoporosis and Strengthens bones.
Moringa leaf fry
Ingredients:
Moringa leaves
2 tablespoons oil
Mustard seeds
Split urad dal
Dried red chilies
Grated onion
Garlic
Salt
Toor dal
Grated coconut
Instructions:
Wash the moringa leaves and set aside. Heat oil in a thick pan. Add mustard seeds, split urad dal, and dried red chillies and fry on low heat. Add grated onion and garlic and fry until the onion turns golden brown. Add the moringa leaves and salt and fry. Add the toor dal and continue to stir.
Finally, add the grated coconut and mix well. Nutritious and delicious dish ready.
Moringa Powder
two ways to make moringa powder.
Sun drying: Wash and dry the moringa leaves thoroughly. Spread them out in a single layer on a clean cloth or drying rack in a well-ventilated, sunny spot. Turn the leaves regularly to ensure even drying. Once completely dry and crispy, grind the leaves into a fine powder. Store the powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place
Oven drying: Preheat your oven to the lowest setting (around 50°C or 120°F). Wash and pat dry the moringa leaves. Spread them on a baking sheet and place them in the oven with the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Dry for several hours, checking and turning the leaves occasionally, until completely crisp. Grind the leaves into a fine powder and store it.
It is also available online. Those interested can buy it.
Conclusion
It is better to prevent disease before it occurs than to treat it after it occurs. The practice of adding moringa leaves to ghee is important in our tradition. Moringa leaves were added and cooked to preserve the food.
Siddha medicine becomes a food medicine by adding this moringa, which is a gift of nature, to food such as greens or powder.
Disclaimer
Consult a healthcare professional before consuming moringa, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any pre-existing health conditions.
Dr. Augastina B.S.M.S., PGDY, is a passionate Siddha Doctor with a heart of gold. She believes in healing one step at a time. In her writing, you’ll find not just knowledge, but genuine care and a holistic approach to health and well-being.
