All About the Versatile Moringa Plant
Ever come across the Moringa plant? Moringa oleifera has gained popularity owing to its rich nutritional content. Apart from its culinary versatility, this plant can even purify water! It’s been dubbed the “drumstick tree” and in the Philippines, it’s termed “malunggay.” Personally, I see it as a miraculous plant. Let’s dive into why.
Note: This content is purely informational and not meant for diagnosing or treating any diseases. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Can You Eat Moringa?
Absolutely! With the right precautions, humans can consume moringa. Initially, I thought it was just another trend, but my research has revealed its true potential and lasting benefits. It reminds me of my interest in soapwort, which I once intended to cultivate as a shampoo alternative – but that’s a story for another time.
Nutritional Highlights of Moringa
Moringa stands tall with other “super foods” like kale, quinoa, and acai berries. It’s loaded with over 90 nutrients, featuring 8 vital amino acids that our system doesn’t naturally produce, including vitamins B, B1, B2, B3, D, and E. Other benefits include:
- Iron content that triples spinach.
- Calcium levels quadrupling that of milk.
- Vitamin A fourfold higher than carrots.
- Vitamin C surpassing oranges.
- Rich source of chlorophyll.
Given its vast nutritional content, NGOs worldwide are promoting moringa for addressing malnutrition. Preppers, take note!
Moringa’s Health Advantages
Termed the “miracle tree”, Moringa offers:
- A vitamin and mineral powerhouse.
- Potent antioxidants to fight free radicals.
- Immune system enhancement.
- Skin health benefits, including acne remedies.
- Digestive aid.
What Parts Can You Eat?
From leaves and flowers to seeds and pods, much of the moringa plant is edible. However, always cook flowers to counteract their toxic compounds. Moreover, it’s advised to avoid the roots and bark, given their high toxicity which can be fatal.
- Pods: The young ones, often called “drumsticks,” are like green beans and taste somewhat like asparagus. The term “drumstick” is a reference to their resemblance to drumsticks, not chicken legs.
- Leaves: Popular in South Asian cuisine, they can be dried as a garnish or used in soups, omelets, or curries. Their taste is often described as a mix between spinach and radish, and in the Philippines, a moringa leaf pesto is quite popular.
- Seeds: Can be roasted or boiled. Always consume seeds meant for eating and not those treated with chemicals.
- Flowers: Suitable for tea or as a fried delicacy. But always cook them first.
Use with Caution
Despite its benefits, moderation is vital:
- Medication Interactions: Moringa might interfere with certain medications. For instance, combining it with levothyroxine, a hypothyroidism medication, requires caution.
- Pregnancy: Refrain from consuming the flowers.
- Allergies: Discontinue use upon signs of allergic reactions.
- Digestion: Large quantities might upset the stomach.
If you’re considering moringa, always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Moringa for Water Purification
For survivalists, this is intriguing. Moringa not only offers nutrition but also purifies water. Dried and powdered moringa seeds can cleanse up to 20 liters of water by making impurities settle at the bottom. This method might also kill most bacteria in the water, although it doesn’t guarantee complete purification.
Growing Moringa
Moringa, indigenous to Northern India and the Himalayas, thrives in hot climates. It flourishes in zones 9-11 and can grow immensely in one season. However, colder regions can cultivate it in greenhouses or seasonally.
Concluding Thoughts
Adding Moringa to your diet or survival kit can be rewarding. Its multifunctionality and nutrient-dense profile make it a survival asset. Next planting season, I’m giving moringa a shot.
Any experiences with Moringa? Share your stories!