Moringa increases natural defences, boosts energy
Apr 18, 2011
MORINGA grows in many people’s backyards, but is often under-utilised. Nutritionists say moringa is loaded with tremendous health benefits.
By Agnes Kyotalengerire
MORINGA grows in many people’s backyards, but is often under-utilised. Nutritionists say moringa is loaded with tremendous health benefits.
According to Moses Ssenoga, a naturopathic doctor at Mukago Herbal Sanitarium, moringa contains significant quantities of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, proteins, potassium, zinc, iron and essential amino acids.
The most nutritious are the leaves. They are used as a preventive measure against certain ailments, and have no proven side effects.
“Moringa leaves boost energy naturally. Because of their protective properties, the leaves are ideal for malnourished children, such as those with kwashiorkor and marasmus†he explains, adding that the leaves can be used as a food supplement, especially in poverty-stricken communities that cannot afford modern supplements.
Moringa is also good for all age groups.
Geoffrey Babughirana, a nutritionist at the health ministry, says the nutritional properties present in moringa increase the body’s natural defence mechanism. It is recommended that one consumes moringa in their daily diet because it is an immunity-stimulant and is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Babu adds that moringa provides nourishment to the eyes and brain, promoting the cell structure of the body and contributing to good cholesterol that boasts a healthy heart.
In addition, it promotes the normal functioning of the liver and kidney and acts as an antioxidant for normal body cleansing. Besides, moringa has a soothing ability and promotes good sleep, giving a feeling of general wellness.
Ssenoga says the leaves aid digestion and are recommended, especially for lactating mothers because they increase the quantity of breast milk.
“The paste of moringa leaves when applied regularly beautifies the skin, lowers the appearance of wrinkles and removes lines on the face,†says Nyakana, a regular user.
Babu adds that moringa pods are very nutritious and contain essential amino acids along with vitamins. “The pods can be eaten raw or prepared like green peas or green beans while the mature pods are usually fried to process a peanut-like flavour and edible oil,†he confirms.
How to make Moringa powder
Pluck the leaves from the stems and remove the stalks.
Sort through to remove any unwanted particles.
Spread them in a shade or a dark room.
Let dry thoroughly.
Put the dried leaves in a mortar or blender.
Crush to fine powder.
Sieve to remove bigger particles.
Store in an air-tight container.
Use as a beverage or add to soups.
Compiled by Agnes Kyotalengerire
MORINGA grows in many people’s backyards, but is often under-utilised. Nutritionists say moringa is loaded with tremendous health benefits.
According to Moses Ssenoga, a naturopathic doctor at Mukago Herbal Sanitarium, moringa contains significant quantities of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, proteins, potassium, zinc, iron and essential amino acids.
The most nutritious are the leaves. They are used as a preventive measure against certain ailments, and have no proven side effects.
“Moringa leaves boost energy naturally. Because of their protective properties, the leaves are ideal for malnourished children, such as those with kwashiorkor and marasmus†he explains, adding that the leaves can be used as a food supplement, especially in poverty-stricken communities that cannot afford modern supplements.
Moringa is also good for all age groups.
Geoffrey Babughirana, a nutritionist at the health ministry, says the nutritional properties present in moringa increase the body’s natural defence mechanism. It is recommended that one consumes moringa in their daily diet because it is an immunity-stimulant and is loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Babu adds that moringa provides nourishment to the eyes and brain, promoting the cell structure of the body and contributing to good cholesterol that boasts a healthy heart.
In addition, it promotes the normal functioning of the liver and kidney and acts as an antioxidant for normal body cleansing. Besides, moringa has a soothing ability and promotes good sleep, giving a feeling of general wellness.
Ssenoga says the leaves aid digestion and are recommended, especially for lactating mothers because they increase the quantity of breast milk.
“The paste of moringa leaves when applied regularly beautifies the skin, lowers the appearance of wrinkles and removes lines on the face,†says Nyakana, a regular user.
Babu adds that moringa pods are very nutritious and contain essential amino acids along with vitamins. “The pods can be eaten raw or prepared like green peas or green beans while the mature pods are usually fried to process a peanut-like flavour and edible oil,†he confirms.
How to make Moringa powder
Pluck the leaves from the stems and remove the stalks.
Sort through to remove any unwanted particles.
Spread them in a shade or a dark room.
Let dry thoroughly.
Put the dried leaves in a mortar or blender.
Crush to fine powder.
Sieve to remove bigger particles.
Store in an air-tight container.
Use as a beverage or add to soups.
Compiled by Agnes Kyotalengerire