Times of the Islands Fall 2017

green pages newsletter of the department of environment & coastal resources
Moringa leaves
Moringa leaves contain vitamins, minerals, essential
amino acids and more. One hundred grams of dry
Moringa leaf contains: 9 times the protein of yogurt; 10
times the vitamin A of carrots; 15 times the potassium
of bananas; 17 times the calcium of milk; 12 times the
vitamin C of oranges and 25 times the iron of spinach.
Moringa powder (such as Aduna) is a rich source of
protein, fibre, iron and vitamins A and K and a source of
vitamin E, calcium and magnesium. The European Food
Standards Authority (EFSA) stated that to qualify as a
source of a vitamin or mineral, a food must contain 15%
of the Nutrient Reference Value (NRV) per serving. The
NRV is a daily recommended amount of the nutrient. To
qualify as a rich source, it must contain at least 30% of
NRV. This is a useful way of measuring nutrient density.
Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants, including
vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin and chlorogenic acid.
Chlorogenic acid is known to slow cells’ absorption of
sugar and animal studies have found it to lower blood
sugar levels. The leaves are also reported to demonstrate
antioxidant properties due to their high amount
of polyphenols, and anti-diabetic effects, thanks to their
beneficial plant compounds, including isothiocyanates.
The isothiocyanates, flavonoids and phenolic acids
in Moringa leaves, pods and seeds also have anti-inflammatory
properties. Moringa has cholesterol-lowering
properties, and one animal study found its effects were
comparable to those of the cholesterol-lowering drug
Simvastatin. Moringa oleifera is used in Thai traditional
medicine as a cardiotonic. The leaves and seeds of
Moringa may protect against some of the effects of arsenic
toxicity, which is especially important in light of news
that staple foods, such as rice, may be contaminated in
some parts of Asia. Drink boiled Moringa leaves before
bed to help you sleep soundly, which in turn will leave
you energized the following day. Moringa is high in fiber
and helps in moving food along your digestive system.
Fiber is also a key component in maintaining a healthy
cardiovascular system.
Moringa flowers
Moringa flowers and leaves are used in the treatment of
malnutrition. An infusion made from flowers can cure
colds. Moringa flowers and root contain antibioticpterygospermin,
which is highly effective on cholera and at
From top: The bark of the Moringa tree can be used to treat skin infections.
These full grown Moringa fruits will open to release seeds .
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