Moringa Powder Benefits, Side Effects & How To Use In Daily Diet

If you love eating piping hot sambhar (lentil dish) you must have heard of moringa. Commonly known as drumstick plant across India, the scientific name Moringa Oleifera may not ring a bell. Ayurveda mentions several moringa powder benefits. In addition, it is also celebrated across the world as a superfood. Let's look at a few moringa powder benefits, side effects & how to use it in our daily diet.


What is moringa:

Moringa powder, derived from dried plant leaves is a nutrient rich superfood. Besides, drumsticks, the commonly known seed pods are used across Indian kitchens. In addition herbal medicines are made out of bark, roots, flowers. Rich in powerful compounds, including antioxidants consuming the powder can be beneficial for overall health. Since, the leaves retain the vitamins & minerals present when dried, consuming it in powder form is popular. Some Indian recipes use the seed pods in their recipes as there are several benefits of moringa seeds too.


Moringa powder benefits:

Provides antioxidants

Did you know that moringa powder has more antioxidants than goji berries? Antioxidants help protect, repair and prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. A diet rich in antioxidants plays a role in maintaining our overall health and helps reduce risks of heart disease. Furthermore, they also help slow down the the ageing process. Read our article to make a healthy antioxidant beverage at home.

Helps combat tiredness & fatigue

Moringa is a rich source of essential nutrients like iron, Vitamin A, calcium, potassium & protein. Iron is an essential nutrient that helps in reduction of tiredness & fatigue. On the other hand, Vitamin A supports metabolism of iron. In addition, moringa powder is a great source of rotein for vegetarians & vegans.

Restores essential vitamin & mineral imbalances  

Moringa powder is a natural source of many important vitamins, nutrients & minerals. Moreover, research shows that it contains approximately 17 times more calcium than & 25 times more iron than spinach. It is also a rich source of amino acids.

Helps fight inflammation

Studies show that inflammation can lead to chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes & arthritis. Consumption of moringa powder helps reduces inflammation in cells. This in turn, helps reduce onset of many diseases.

Helps prevents heart disease

Moringa powder has heart-healthy benefits. It is a natural source of important nutrients that help in the prevention of plaque formation in the arteries. When taken it adequate doses, it also helps reduce cholesterol levels.

Provides skin loving vitamins

The powder has skin loving vitamins like Vitamin A & E that help maintain skin health. To begin with, these vitamins along with the antioxidants present help prevent oxidative damage to the skin. Also, research shows that consumption of the powder helps slow down signs of ageing like excessive dry skin, wrinkles & fine lines.

Moringa powder side effects:

Although, the seeds & leaves are safe to consume, moringa powder should be consumed after checking with health experts. The powder has laxative effects in large doses. Also, consumption of root & bark is not advisable. Additionally, studies are yet to prove the co-relation between consumption of the powder & weight loss.

How to use moringa in daily diet:

Choose good quality organic moringa powder from a reliable source. Add to rotis, parathas & dals. Alternatively, one can consume moringa tea made with the powder daily. Since, the powder has an earthy taste similar to spinach it can be added to smoothies. Make a vegetable side dish with leaves. The seed pods (drumsticks) can be added to dals, sambhar or to make vegetable curry.
 
In conclusion, moringa powder has many health benefits, provided it is taken under expert supervision. Also, one need to take care that the dosage should not exceed recommended proportions.

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