KOMPAS.com – Moringa leaves are a plant that has long been believed to have various health benefits. This plant is rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds that help maintain body health.
Although only a small portion of its benefits have been scientifically researched, some of them have been proven.
Here are six health benefits of Moringa leaves that are supported by research.
Also read: 5 Benefits of Consuming Moringa Leaf Tea Every Day for Health
1. Moringa leaves are very nutritious
Moringa leaves come from a tree that grows in North India and is known by several names, such as drumstick tree or ben oil tree.
Almost all parts of this plant can be eaten or used as traditional medicine, especially the leaves and pods.
Moringa leaves contain many essential vitamins and minerals, such as protein, vitamin B6, vitamin C, iron, riboflavin (B2), vitamin A, and magnesium.
In developing countries, Moringa leaves can be an important source of nutrition, especially for people who lack vitamins, minerals and protein.
However, it should be noted that Moringa leaves also contain antinutrients which can reduce the absorption of minerals and proteins in the body.
2. Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that fight free radicals in the body. High levels of free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which is associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Moringa leaves contain several antioxidants, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin (which can help lower blood pressure), and chlorogenic acid (which can help regulate blood sugar levels after eating).
Also read: Can you drink boiled water from Moringa leaves every day? This is the explanation…
A study shows that consuming 1.5 teaspoons of Moringa leaf powder every day for three months can significantly increase antioxidant levels in the blood.
3. Moringa leaves can lower blood sugar levels
High blood sugar levels are a serious health problem and are the main characteristic of diabetes. Several studies show that Moringa leaves can help lower blood sugar levels.
Illustration of Moringa leaves.For example, a study found that consuming 1.5 teaspoons of Moringa leaf powder every day could reduce fasting blood sugar levels by an average of 13.5 percent.
This effect is believed to be caused by plant compounds such as isothiocyanates found in Moringa leaves.
4. Moringa leaves can reduce inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection or injury. However, chronic inflammation can be dangerous and is often linked to various health problems such as heart disease and cancer.
