Anima Mundi, Beauty News
Meet Moringa: The timeless powerhouse of nature
The Legacy of Moringa
Moringa, often termed the ‘miracle tree’, has an incredible lineage tracing back to over 4,000 years. With roots deep in ancient medicine, it’s no wonder this tree boasts the power to address over 300 varied ailments. A true survivor, moringa stands tall in the harshest environments, proving its tenacity and resilience. Every part of this tree, from its seeds, leaves, and roots to its flowers and resin, encapsulates health benefits that diverse cultures across the globe have harnessed.
The Remarkable Advantages of Moringa
NUTRIENT-PACKED | The nutritional profile of Moringa is nothing short of impressive. Would you be surprised to hear that Moringa is densely packed with protein? It boasts 18 of the 20 amino acids, including all the essential ones. In comparison to common food items, it has calcium levels quadruple that of cow’s milk, iron content that’s 25 times that of spinach, potassium content that surpasses bananas by 15 times, vitamin A that’s fourfold of what carrots offer, and a vitamin C content that’s sevenfold of oranges. Its high concentrations of vitamins C and E contribute to improved brain health by shielding neurons from degenerative processes.
PROTECTIVE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION | Moringa is enriched with B-vitamins, magnesium, and potent antioxidants, one of which is quercetin – known for its therapeutic implications for grave illnesses. Similarly, its ability to counter inflammation-based conditions such as varied allergies and viral infections is noteworthy. Moringa also houses the amino acid, tryptophan, recognized for enhancing neurotransmitter activity. Tryptophan plays a pivotal role as it’s responsible for producing serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone.
Delving deeper into its protective elements, the compound kaempferol, a type of flavonoid present in certain plants and foods, is recognized for regulating cell cycle dynamics, cell migration, new blood vessel formation, and programmed cell death across diverse cancer cells. A 2016 research endeavor highlighted its potency in curbing the growth of pancreatic cancer cells and hindering their movement.
YOUTH-PRESERVING PROPERTIES | Scientific examinations of Moringa leaves reveal a rich presence of plant hormones, known specifically as cytokinins. One cytokinin, zeatin, stands out due to its unusually high concentration in Moringa. The intrinsic role of cytokinins in plants is facilitating recovery from damage and promoting cell growth. Mirroring these effects in humans, cytokinins have the capacity to retard aging processes. Zeatin, with its influence on cellular division and strong antioxidant attributes, is an age-defying agent. It’s noteworthy that Moringa oleifera holds a zeatin content that’s thousands of times more than any other known plant, rendering it a crucial component in anti-aging regimens and a therapeutic food supplement.
ENERGETIC BOOST | Regular consumers of this magnificent plant often vouch for a noticeable surge in their stamina and vitality. Moringa bestows upon us an abundant supply of vitamins, minerals, and a spectrum of nutrients that are easily absorbed by our cells. Antioxidants, by virtue of being cellular oxygenators, serve as natural energy enhancers. This underscores the fact that resorting to stimulants like caffeine isn’t the only way to invigorate ourselves – sometimes, an antioxidant is all we need. Rooted in Ayurvedic tradition, Moringa has been a revered digestive aid and blood purifier, credited for its capability to expel contaminants, toxins, parasites, and waste products, thereby facilitating cellular revitalization and oxygenation.
Integrating Moringa into Daily Life
Moringa’s flexibility in culinary uses is a bonus. While its green, flavorful powder is a popular choice for smoothies, juices, and even matcha, diverse cultures have incorporated it into everyday cooking. From savory dishes in the Caribbean to curries in India and therapeutic teas, the world has recognized and embraced Moringa’s value.
Moringa: A Hidden Adaptogen?
The adaptogenic nature of herbs has been a point of debate. While modern terminologies like ‘adaptogen’ haven’t embraced many herbs, Moringa’s adaptability, both in nature and its benefits to the human body, hints at its potential adaptogenic qualities. Preliminary studies exploring its effects on the HPA axis, the hub of our body’s hormonal and stress responses, show promising results. With its anti-inflammatory attributes and potential stress-reducing capabilities, only time will tell if Moringa joins the elite group of adaptogens.
Recipe
M O R I N G A M A T C H A
Chia Pudding
A Green Symphony:
The Moringa Matcha Chia Pudding Delight
Embrace the magical union of moringa and matcha in this week’s featured tonic – the Moringa Matcha Chia Pudding. Crafted by the talented Kate from @solfulhealth, this vibrant concoction promises not just a treat to your taste buds but also a burst of nutrition and energy. Whether you’re starting your day or capping it off, this chia pudding is the epitome of health meeting indulgence. From the creaminess of coconut milk to the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, each layer of flavor complements the next. And the best part? You have the choice to savor it smooth or relish the textured goodness of whole chia seeds. So let’s dive in, and whip up this green wonder!
What you need
for 2 servings
- 1 cup coconut milk (homemade or natural) – Or! Use the coconut cream powder and blend with water to make your own instant coconut magic milk
- 1/4 cup Chia Seeds
- 1/2 cup (or less) maple syrup (or sub any sweetener)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- ½ tbsp moringa
- 1-2 tsp matcha
Course of Action
- For Blended/Smooth Version: Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth.
- For Whole Chia Seed Version: Blend all ingredients except chia seeds in a blender until smooth (including any added flavors, fruits or chocolate). Whisk in chia seeds.
- Pour mixture into a jar or glass container and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let gel. Stir or whisk a few times within the first hour to help it gel evenly. I prefer to make this at night to have ready for a fast breakfast the next day. It is also great to make in the morning for a delicious pre-made dessert at night.
- Top off with Kiwi, or your favorite seasonal fruit, and enjoy!!