The Moringa oleifera is considered a superfood in India, China, Asia, the West Indies and the Philippines, as well as subtropical areas of the U.S. Recognized by the National Institutes of Health in 2007 as the “botanical of the year”, numerous scientific studies on this tree have revealed that its bark, root, leaves, flowers and seeds have medicinal, nutritional and culinary value. Additionally, the seeds are highly effective at water purification.

The scientific literature regarding the nutrient content of moringa leaves reference 92 nutrients, 46 antioxidants, 36 anti-inflammatories, 18 amino acids, nine essential amino acids and 13 essential vitamins and minerals. It contains seven times the vitamin C in oranges, four times the calcium in milk, four times the vitamin A in carrots, three times the potassium in bananas and two times the protein in yogurt. It also has more chlorophyll than any other dark, green, leafy vegetable.

Moringa’s medicinal qualities are helpful in treating a wide variety of ailments such as joint pain, constipation, headache and fluid retention, along with diabetes, thyroid disorders, anemia, asthma and other conditions.

The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center recognizes moringa’s anticancer properties: “In vitro and animal studies indicate that the leaf, seed and root extracts of moringa have anticancer, hepatoprotective (protect against liver damage) hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal effects. They may also protect against Alzheimer’s disease, stomach ulcers, help lower cholesterol levels and promote wound-healing.”

Moringa dried leaf powder can be brewed as a tea or sprinkled onto soups, porridge, pastas, bread, smoothies and juices. In Africa, it is mixed into baby formula. Fresh, tender leaves can be cooked like spinach, floated atop soups and stews or added to rice and other grains. Add the flowers to salads. Parbroil young pods or prepare them like asparagus or green beans. The seeds in mature pods can be cooked like peas or roasted like nuts.

For more information, call Moringa Energy Life at 239-437-0072 or visit MoringaEnergyLife.com.