Beneficial properties and composition of organic Moringa

Organic Moringa is also called the miracle tree. This nickname may seem presumptuous at first, but organic Moringa has not usurped it, as its qualities and benefits are numerous.

Rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins, it helps prevent, relieve and treat many benign or chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, inflammation, hormonal or immune imbalance, etc.). His reputation has traveled the world and his followers number in the hundreds of millions. It is used by traditional medicine as well as modern medicine and is unanimous among nutritionists and dietitians. Organic Moringa is, more than ever, a miraculous plant.

The origins of organic Moringa

Organic Moringa, derived from the Tamil word ''Murungai'', comes from the Moringaceae family of which it is the only genus. It is made up of 13 species, the best known and most cultivated being Moringa Oleifera, the eponym of the organic Moringa we know. The latter is in the form of a tree that can reach a height of 15 meters. It is particularly suitable for hot and dry climates, thanks to its resistance and water retention properties.

The first references to this tree date back to 2000 BC. AD in the foothills of the Himalayas in northeast India, where it was commonly used for its therapeutic and medicinal qualities. Its notoriety and its culture then gradually crossed the borders, first spreading throughout the Indian subcontinent as far as Sri Lanka, before spreading to more distant warm countries: Southeast Asia, Mediterranean contour, and finally Africa, the West Indies and America. The good reputation of organic Moringa has gone through the ages and civilizations without ever being contradicted. Traditional Indian medicine, Ayurvedic, already identified its power to cure more than three hundred diseases. The Egyptians used its oil to maintain their skin and protect it from the sun. The medical literature of ancient Greece praised its beneficial effects on health. The Romans for their part used it both as a remedy and as a dietary supplement.

The reasons for the success of organic Moringa

The omnipotent pharmaceutical industry tries not to publicize the qualities of Maringa and for good reason, it would represent a direct threat to their well-established profits. As you will have understood, if organic Moringa is so popular with populations and arouses fears among pharmaceutical groups, it is above all for its incredible healing powers. Called by some the miracle tree or the tree of life, it offers a natural, inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative. Each year, new research comes to support its therapeutic effectiveness thanks to the combination of its many active ingredients.

Beyond the medicinal aspect, organic Moringa is also acclaimed for its nutritional contribution (superfood) and its preventive qualities against diseases. As the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure”. But Moringa, especially its leaves, is full of an impressive array of vitamins, minerals and proteins essential to the metabolism of our body. It can be declined in different forms (powder, dried leaves, infusions…), it adapts to the culinary specificities of each region of the globe and remains accessible to all budgets.

The ease of growing organic Moringa also plays an important role in its success. Indeed, it is a plant that does not need a lot of water thanks to its ingenious system which allows it to store it in its tuberous roots. It is therefore perfectly suited to dry and arid regions where water is a rare and precious commodity. In addition, its rapid growth makes it a food available all year round with 2 possible harvests per year, especially since all parts of the tree are edible: the flowers in infusion, the crushed seeds give an oil of quality and its residues are used to purify water, fresh or dried leaves into protein or therapeutic food.

The list of benefits of organic Moringa

The virtues of organic Moringa have been documented and carefully listed thanks to various scientific and medical research, but also based on the empirical knowledge accumulated through the ages by many civilizations.

Skin and hair:

Organic Moringa is composed of antioxidant elements that prevent the early appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. It nourishes and hydrates the whole epidermis of the body at the cellular level, including the scalp. The invigorated hair follicles promote healthy, thick hair regrowth while the skin regains its suppleness and tone thanks to the stimulation of collagen production.

Organic Moringa also acts quite effectively against skin infections through its antibacterial and antifungal properties. The skin, protected and immunized, suffers fewer infections such as acne breakouts or dandruff. Organic Moringa oil, used since the time of the Pharaohs, acts as an astringent agent. It tightens the pores to limit the intrusion of unwanted residues while keeping the skin hydrated for a long time by creating a natural moisture barrier.

Finally, Moringa promotes healing by accelerating cell regeneration. Researchers have also noticed during an anthropological study that the populations that consume the most organic Moringa (Indians, South Americans) had healthier hair and thicker and stronger regrowth than in other populations.

Aphrodisiac virtues

Organic Moringa fruits have been used for millennia for their aphrodisiac properties. Consumed by both women and men, they stimulate libido and significantly improve stamina and sexual tone. It is also an excellent remedy for impotence and reduced performance. (source)

Aphrodisiac virtues

A real scourge in developed countries, arterial hypertension is responsible for cardiovascular and cerebral diseases which claim hundreds of thousands of victims every year. Stress, physical inactivity, age and poor diet are the main causes. Organic Moringa brings considerable benefits that help alleviate this pernicious pathology. Containing x4 times more potassium than bananas for example, it reduces the level of sodium in our body, and in turn lowers blood pressure in the long term. Its magnesium, zinc and vitamin E content helps vascular smooth muscle cells to relax and better regulate blood flow to different organs.

Fight against diabetes

Arterial hypertension and diabetes are 2 pathologies which in many cases have common causes. Here again, physical inactivity and diet play an important role (except in cases due to genetic heredity). In a person with diabetes, the body can no longer produce enough insulin to break down glucose into energy. In addition, diabetes is intimately linked to hypertension insofar as the latter represents a major risk factor (the majority of type 2 diabetics suffer from hypertension). (source).

Recent studies have shown that incorporating organic Moringa into your daily diet helps prevent the onset of diabetes. Indeed, it helps regulate blood sugar levels through the combined action of chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates. In addition, thanks to its rich fiber and vitamin A and C content, it prevents people already diagnosed with diabetes from suffering its harmful effects such as diabetic retinopathy, which still affects 40% of diabetics.

Prevents cancer

According to research published by the NCBI (source), organic Moringa, like the vegetables and olive oil that make up the Mediterranean diet, is one of the foods recognized for their health benefits, in particular by reducing the risks of cancers. It contains a mixture of essential amino acids and carotenoid phytonutrients that help prevent the appearance of certain cancers such as stomach or colon cancer. Other active ingredients also play a beneficial role in this prevention: beta-carotene, quercetin, polyphenols and chlorogenic acid.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

Organic Moringa has one of the highest levels of antioxidants among other foods. With an ORAC value of 157,000 m³, it contains 6 times more antioxidants than goji berries, for example, which are nevertheless considered a benchmark in the field. The presence of these natural chemical substances makes it possible to annihilate the harmful effects of free radicals such as the premature aging of cells.

The other recognized quality of organic Moringa is its anti-inflammatory property. A recent study in the Journal of Food Science and Technology showed that this effect has a beneficial impact on levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, particularly in postmenopausal adult women. Also, Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) has been using it for centuries to treat stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney damage as well as various fungal infections.

Improves the digestive system

Constipation, diarrhea, gastroenteritis, spasms. We are constantly suffering the pangs of the dysfunction of our digestive system. However, the solution that organic Moringa offers in this regard is quite astounding. Its calcium content facilitates the action of digestive enzymes. Added to this is the high rate of its fiber content (31%) which helps maintain healthy digestion in addition to balancing our metabolism. This helps maintain an ideal body mass index (BMI) for both women and men.

Protects hormonal balance and the immune system

Organic Moringa acts on the hormonal balance on several levels. First, it stimulates the production of serotonin, also known as the “happiness hormone”. This helps to give your body more energy, fight fatigue and depression, fight insomnia and generally stabilize our mood.

In a more feminine register this time, organic Moringa helps prevent complications related to aging and natural hormonal changes (menopause). Clinical trials have clearly demonstrated the power of Moringa to reduce markers of oxidative stress and slow the effects of aging.

Organic Moringa also helps strengthen our immune system, in particular by filling deficiencies in vitamin A and nutrients essential for the proper functioning of our body. In third world countries, it is regularly given to children to help them stimulate their failing immune system and to pregnant women to help them increase the production and lactation of breast milk.

Strengthens the musculoskeletal system: bones, muscles, joints

Organic Moringa leaves have an exceptionally high vegetable protein content compared to other foods such as beef which contains x4 times less. In addition, the presence of amino acids promotes the growth and development of muscle mass through better assimilation of biological nano molecules. As such, it is particularly suitable for vegetarians who have fewer choices in their protein supply, for athletes who use it in the repair of muscle micro-lesions, as well as for children suffering from nutritional deficiencies. Its vitamin B2 content boosts energy metabolism and promotes better muscle oxygenation.

Organic Moringa leaves also help prevent age-related decline in bone density (osteoporosis) and relieve joint pain. They are also particularly indicated for women suffering from post-menopausal symptoms such as porous bone. Indeed, their body having more and more difficulty absorbing calcium, the bones are weakened and vulnerable. It should also be noted that dairy products rich in calcium do not necessarily present a good supply alternative because of a high and harmful fat and calorie content.

You should know that organic Moringa contains x17 times more calcium than cow's milk, x25 times more iron than spinach and 90 different nutrients as well as 46 types of antioxidants. In other words, its curative and preventive powers are incomparable. In addition, and unlike synthetic calcium, the calcium present in the leaves of organic Moringa is natural and therefore easily absorbable and bioavailable.

Improves eyesight

Our grandmothers always advised us to eat carrots to have good vision. Their assertion was based on empirical ancestral knowledge that had proven itself over time. Today, the various researches give a scientific explanation which comes to support their statements. He noted that foods high in beta-carotene and vitamin A help prevent macular degeneration. Indeed, the macula (small area at the bottom of the retina) can suffer from thinning and atrophy which cause a progressive loss of central vision, especially when this is related to age (we then speak of AMD or Macular degeneration).

However, Moringa Olifeira leaves contain x4 times more beta-carotene and vitamin A than carrots. Its effects on our eyes are therefore beneficial in the long term and help prevent the various symptoms that can affect our vision, thanks in addition to a significant intake of minerals and antioxidants.
Prevents fungal and viral infections
Organic Moringa is an ideal food supplement in the treatment of fungal or yeast infections (such as candida), as well as viral and parasitic infections. Its antioxidant active ingredients play an important role thanks to their targeted action at the molecular level and their undeniable curative and healing power.

Organic Moringa Nutrients

Dieticians and nutritionists unanimously recommend the consumption of organic Moringa in all its forms (powder, infusion, dry or fresh leaves) for its complete supply of proteins, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It is also one of the foods recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations University (UNU).

Nutrients	Moringa	Reference foods
vitamin A	6780mcg	Carrots 1890 mcg
Vitamin C	220 mg	Oranges 30mg
Calcium	440mg	Cow's milk 120mg
Potassium	259mg	Bananas 88mg
Proteins	6.7mg	Milk 3.2mg

vitamins

Vitamin A: fat-soluble, the vitamin A contained in organic Moringa is mainly composed of carotenes. The daily requirements according to the FAO and the WHO are 2400 IU for women and 3400 IU for men (IU: international unit, i.e. between 0.7 and 1mg). It plays an essential role in the prevention of vision disorders, helps keep the skin hydrated longer, stimulates the production of melanin, strengthens the growth of the human body and maintains its immune system. You should know that a severe deficiency in vitamin A can lead to blindness or even death (the majority of cases listed are found in the least developed countries and which experience chronic malnutrition or even famine).
Vitamin B1 (thiamine): water-soluble, it plays an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and the proper functioning of the nervous system. It is the liver that transforms the thiamine assimilated by our body into thiamine pyrophosphate (TTP), the active form of vitamin B1. The latter is also on the list of essential nutrients provided by the WHO and the US Institute of Medicine. (source:). The recommended daily requirements are around 0.9 mg to 1 mg per day for an adult and 1.4 mg per day for a pregnant woman.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): It is not stored by our body but comes in the form of 2 coenzymes: FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) and FMN (flavin mononucleotide). They capture hydrogen for better cellular oxygenation and the release of energy. Like vitamin B1, it is also water soluble and facilitates the transformation of food into energy. It accelerates the healing of muscle injuries and is used as a treatment for certain diseases such as neonatal jaundice. However, its most visible action remains on the skin and hair, which regains a healthy, rejuvenated and invigorated appearance.
Vitamin B3 (niacin): also called niacin for short, it is actually made up of 2 elements: niacin (nicotinic acid) and niacinamide (nicotinamide). It is used in the treatment of people with high cholesterol or for cases of pellagra. Vitamin B3 deficiency can also cause nausea, skin or mucous membrane damage, anemia or fatigue. However, the majority of cases are found in the least developed countries, which are more exposed to malnutrition and famine. The daily consumption recommendations are 11 to 11 mg per day for an adult and 18 mg per day for a pregnant woman.
Vitamin B6: of all the B vitamins, this is probably the best known, and for good reason! It is a so-called essential vitamin because our body does not know how to produce or store it. Its contribution therefore comes necessarily through food and this is where the consumption of products such as organic Moringa plays an important role. A large-scale epidemiological study by the Nurses Health Study (source: source) on 80,000 women showed the benefits of vitamin B6 in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It also helps prevent kidney stones and strengthens the immune system and hormonal production. Its daily consumption recommended by the WHO and the FAO is between 1.0 mg and 1.3 mg per day for an adult, 1.9 mg per day for a pregnant woman and 2.0 mg for lactation.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid): is also an essential nutrient for the body and essential for its metabolism. It participates in a wide range of key biological roles such as the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA) or the production of red blood cells (University of Maryland source). Specifically, vitamin B5 helps maintain a healthy digestive tract and synthesize good cholesterol while reducing triglycerides and fats. It also has beneficial effects on the skin and promotes better healing of skin lesions. The daily consumption recommended by the WHO is 5 mg per day for adults, 6 mg for pregnant women and 7 mg for breastfeeding women.
Vitamin C (L ascorbic acid): best known for its antioxidant power, it helps prevent many diseases such as cancer, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or scurvy thanks to its role in strengthening the immune system and annihilation of the harmful effects of free radicals. It is also frequently used in case of colds, fatigue or exhaustion. Listed as an essential medicine by the WHO, it is necessary for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine and certain neurotransmitters. The recommended daily nutritional intake of vitamin C is 125 mg per day for adult smokers and 90 mg for non-smokers (smokers being more prone to producing free radicals that are harmful to their health). The various studies have also shown that vitamin C contained in food is much more effective than synthetic vitamin C. The latter, available in the form of effervescent tablets, contains high doses of sodium chloride harmful to our body.
Organic Moringa also contains a significant percentage of vitamins D, E and K, essential for cell regeneration and the strengthening of bone and muscle structures.
Essential Amino Acids
An essential amino acid cannot, in essence, be synthesized by our body (or not enough) and must necessarily be brought to our body through food. However, for each adult, 8 amino acids are essential: tryptophan, methionine, valine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine and isoleucine. Added to these are the amino acids indicated for children: arginine and histidine.

However, Moringa Oleifera contains a sufficient quantity of all the amino acids essential to our body in addition to other so-called ''conditionally essential'' amino acids such as tyrosine, proline or glycine. Better than that, organic Moringa makes it possible to fill the daily doses recommended by the WHO, the FAO and the UNU. ( source ). Thus, each amino acid provided by organic Moringa has a very specific role:

Tryptophan (Trp): is used in the biosynthesis of proteins and as a biochemical precursor for elements such as serotonin, niacin or auxin. It acts on the human body as a natural antidepressant and a powerful relaxant. It also improves the quality of our sleep and prevents stress and anxiety. It is particularly recommended for overweight people thanks to its appetite suppressant properties. The daily dose recommended by the WHO is 4 mg/kg (example: if you weigh 70 kg, then this value must be multiplied by 70, i.e. 280 mg per day).
Methionine: it is important in angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels from existing vessels) and improves the conditions of people suffering from Parkinson's, asthma, allergies, alcoholism or depression. It revitalizes hair follicles and sebaceous glands, thus delaying the appearance of white hair due to senility. The WHO recommended daily intake is 15 mg per kg.
Threonine: another amino acid used in the biosynthesis of proteins, it is a precursor of glycine and the elevation of its level in the brain. It also prevents hepatic steatosis by limiting the accumulation of fat in the liver and promoting better intestinal digestion. The WHO recommended daily dose is 15 mg per kg.
Valine: its name comes from valerian officinale, an antioxidant plant that also acts as a natural sleep aid. It is, with leucine and isoleucine, a branched chain amino acid. Its benefits focus on muscle health (tissue and wound repair), regulation of the immune system, and protection of the liver and gallbladder. It also helps maintain adequate nitrogen levels in the body. The WHO recommended daily intake is 26 mg per kg.
Histidine: it is the precursor of histamine, an inflammatory agent vital in immune responses. It is particularly effective in the fight against allergies and helps prevent anemia by facilitating the transport of oxygen in red blood cells. Histidine deficiency has been noted in people with rheumatoid arthritis (a form of chronic inflammatory arthritis). The recommended daily dose of Histidine by the WHO is 10 mg per kg.
Isoleucine: it is both a glucogenic and ketogenic amino acid that helps maintain a constant blood sugar level in the blood. Isoleucine molecules cannot be broken down and assimilated by our body without the presence of biotin (vitamin H or B7) which is part of the panel of vitamins that make up Moringa leaves. The WHO recommended daily intake is 20 mg per kg.
Lysine: It plays a major role in the absorption and conservation of calcium by our body as well as the production of proteins. It is particularly known among high-level athletes for its qualities in the recovery and healing of muscle damage as well as the production of hormones, enzymes and antibodies. Clinical studies have also shown beneficial effects on blood pressure and a substantial decrease in the risk of stroke (source). The WHO recommended daily intake is 30 mg per kg.
Leucine: it allows, in line with lysine, the synthesis of muscle proteins. Having a naturally sweet flavor, it is often used as a flavor enhancer in the food industry (under the name E641) and facilitates the incorporation of Moringa oleifera leaves into several culinary recipes. Its daily consumption recommended by the WHO is 39 mg per kg.
Phenylalanine: It has a higher sweetening power than sucrose while having a lower energy content. Naturally present in breast milk, it is a precursor of tyrosine and monoamines (neurotransmitters derived from amino acids), elements that strengthen memory through better neuronal interconnection in our brain. Its daily consumption recommended by the WHO is 25 mg per kg.

Minerals and proteins

The nickname of miracle plant given to organic Moringa is justified by its high content of minerals and proteins essential for the proper functioning of our body. The list of minerals is plethoric and meets the daily needs of our body with a supply of calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc. For example, Moringa capsules contain x36 times more magnesium than eggs and x4 times more calcium and potassium than milk or bananas.

Proteins are not to be outdone and constitute another wealth of Moringa Oleifera. With a content of 28 g per 100 g of dried leaf powder, it provides more protein than any plant food, or even most foods of animal origin. In addition, it is one of the few natural proteins to have a high amount of branched chain amino acids (BCAA – Branched Chain Amino Acid). This is why organic Moringa is appreciated by athletes for its positive impact on the muscles, but also by vegetarians who cannot consume proteins of animal origin and must find an effective and beneficial alternative for their health.

fibers

Moringa leaves and seeds (seeds extracted from the pods) are a significant source of soluble dietary fiber with a content of 3.2 g / 100 mg (contained in the leaves), i.e. x4 times more than oats for example . The interest of fibers for the body is manifested first and foremost by a good digestive functioning thanks to a better intestinal transit. Foods rich in dietary fiber, and especially organic Moringa, stimulate gastric contractions and facilitate bacterial activity in the colon. People with a diet low in fiber know something about it, with repeated constipation and diarrhea.

Soluble dietary fibers are also effective in the fight against obesity thanks to their appetite suppressant action which limits the risk of overeating. In addition, they help prevent several diseases such as cardiovascular disease or the formation of stones in the gallbladder.

vitamins	Value	minerals	Value
vitamin A	378 ?g (47%)	Calcium	185mg (19%)
Thiamine (B1)	0.257mg (22%)	Iron	4.00mg (31%)
Riboflavin (B2)	0.660mg (55%)	Magnesium	147mg (41%)
Niacin (B3)	2,220mg (15%)	Manganese	0.36mg (17%)
A. Pantothenic (B5)	0.125mg (3%)	Phosphorus	112mg (16%)
Vitamin B6	1,200mg (92%)	Potassium	337mg (7%)
Folate (B9)	40?g	Sodium	9mg (1%)
Vitamin C)	Carbohydrates	Energy	Protein
1.40g	8.28g	64 kcal (270 kj)	9.40g

Properties of the different parts of Moringa

The French gastronome Jean Brillat-Savarin formulated this famous expression: ''everything is good in the pig''. Given its many nutritional benefits, one could just as easily say that ''everything is good about Moringa''. From the leaves to the seeds and the roots, each part of organic Moringa has specific qualities, both therapeutic and nutritional.

The leaves: this is undoubtedly the strong point of Moringa. The leaves are indeed the most nutritious part and the richest in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and fibers. Consumed fresh, dried or powdered, cooked or in capsules, the leaves contain the bioavailable nutrients essential to our body: vitamin B, vitamin A (beta-carotene), vitamin K, manganese, proteins... It is therefore no surprise that the leaves come first in the most consumed part of organic Moringa in the world.
Seeds: Organic Moringa seeds can be eaten in several ways. The pods formed from immature seeds (chopsticks) are most often cooked to preserve their nutritional quality. They are indeed rich in vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and dietary fiber. Ripe seeds are eaten like nuts or peas and are high in vitamin C and mineral nutrients. Ripe seeds also produce an oil that can be edible or used as a flocculant to purify water, skin, or hair. It is also used in the cosmetics industry.
The roots: they are crushed and used as condiments or flavor enhancers, with amazing taste qualities. The roots are also beneficial to health thanks to their high content of polyphenol, an antioxidant organic molecule with multiple anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. It also protects against cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Modes of consumption of Moringa
One of the advantages of organic Moringa is its adaptability and availability for consumption in several forms. Whether for therapeutic or gastronomic purposes, or both at the same time, organic Moringa is flexible as desired and adapts to all uses by using ancestral techniques or the latest technological innovations.

In powder, seeds or capsules: for a long time, the seeds of Moringa Olifeira as well as its dried leaves have been ground into powder to facilitate their incorporation into culinary dishes but also their preservation. Organic Moringa is also available in capsules or high-concentration capsules for better therapeutic effectiveness as well as more effective preservation over time (it takes about 6 kg of Moringa leaves to obtain 1 kg of dried powder). As for the seeds of the still immature pods, they are prepared like green beans, then cooked or dried to preserve their nutritional quality.

Culinary recipes: chaque région du monde a adapté l’utilisation gastronomique du Moringa bio à ses spécificités locales propres. Au Cambodge par exemple, il représente un légume de prédilection utilisé en feuilles pour concocter une soupe traditionnelle appelée Korko. Dans d’autres pays, les feuilles sont employées comme garniture pour les plats de légumes, de salade ou de poisson. Les jeunes feuilles peuvent également être frites ou placées en conserve pour prolonger leur durée d’utilisation. En Inde, le Moringa est fréquemment utilisé dans les bouillons, mais également consommé comme fruit notamment quand les graines sont encore dans leurs gousses. Le Moringa fait office d’excellent ingrédient pour mijoter des sauces succulentes. Les feuilles peuvent être traitées avec de l’huile d’olive et du sel pour une sauce aux pâtes presto (pourraient remplacer ou accompagner le basilique). En Afrique, et à quelques exceptions près, c’est plutôt en poudre que le Moringa est incorporé dans la sauce qui sert à agrémenter le poisson ou la viande. La pâtisserie et la boulangerie ne sont pas en reste. En effet, le Moringa s’intègre très bien dans de nombreuses viennoiseries et tartes où il rehausse le goût tout en apportant une touche d’originalité. Il existe également des pains atypiques à base de feuilles de Moringa, comme au Benin où du pain à la mie serrée et verte connaît un franc succès auprès de la population locale.

Drinks also incorporate organic Moringa without much difficulty. Whether it's juices or infusions or tea, its consumption remains appreciated both for the taste and for the health benefits it provides. Thus, to prepare the tea, simply immerse the dried organic Moringa leaves in hot water so that they can infuse and release their flavors, in the same way as green tea. You should know that the scholars of the field recommend, for a better taste yield, to dry the leaves slowly at low temperature in order to preserve their delicate nutritive components. You will then obtain a tea with incomparable antioxidant power (its consumption is also known to be a home remedy that promotes the production of collagen fibers by our body and delays the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on our face).

Example of a simple Moringa-based recipe: Moringa, spinach and shrimp pie:

1 shortcrust pastry
300g spinach
2 tablespoons organic Moringa powder
300g shelled prawns
3 eggs
50 cl fresh cream, salt and pepper
Unroll the dough, trim the edges and prick it with a fork. Mix the eggs with the fresh cream and beat everything like an omelet. Add salt and pepper. Add the spinach, organic Moringa and shrimp. Put everything on the dough and bake in the oven at 220 degrees for 30 min.

Cultivation of organic Moringa

Geographic regions and climate
The organic Moringa tree originally originated in the northern part of India. Its popularity throughout the ages has extended its cultivation to the four corners of the globe, with a predilection for semi-arid, tropical and subtropical regions. It tolerates a hot and dry climate, does not require intensive irrigation and adapts to all types of soil, particularly neutral or slightly acid soils (ph 6.3 to 7.0). It is now found mainly in Southeast Asia (India, Phillipines, Bangladesh, Thailand), Africa, South America and the Caribbean. Its culture continues to grow thanks to its dazzling success.

Cultivation practice

The excavation required during soil preparation is shallow and avoids problems related to erosion, a phenomenon to which tropical regions are particularly sensitive. Moringa can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, but it is the sowing that is most practiced, facilitated by a fairly high germination rate.

In plantations dedicated to intensive or semi-intensive production, the plants are spaced 50 cm to 1 m apart to facilitate weeding, prevent diseases and reduce maintenance constraints. Organic Moringa trees are also grown as natural fences or associated with other crops.

Yields vary depending on whether Moringa oleifera is grown for its leaves, pods or seeds for oil extraction. They also vary according to season, fertilization and soil irrigation regime. In some regions, it is possible to carry out 2 harvests per year, allowing consumption almost permanently. On average, a mature tree can produce between 500 to 1000 pods per year and give a yield of 6 tons of leaves and 250 liters of oil per hectare.

As with every plantation, organic Moringa oleifera is also subject to pests and diseases, but their incidence remains minor compared to other crops. It is indeed quite a tough and hardy tree that does not need to be treated with pesticides or harmful chemicals. Weightworld's policy is strict and severe in this respect, with upstream control in order to guarantee products free of chemical treatments.

Social and environmental impact of growing organic Moringa

Job creation and sustainable development: The cultivation of organic Moringa has enabled the creation of thousands of jobs in rural areas of developing countries. A source of income for many families, it has played an important role in the development of local populations and has contributed to reducing the rural exodus. Weighworld makes it a point of honor to actively participate in this sustainable development project by promoting small producers so that they can benefit from fair and just trade.

Reforestation and the fight against desertification: in a world where the environment and climate change are becoming major concerns, it is more important than ever to favor eco-responsible crops that respect our ecosystem. Weighworld is part of this logic by encouraging the planting of a tree that slows down soil erosion and stops creeping desertification in several regions of the globe. (The example of Haiti is instructive, the organic Moringa tree has been grown there as a windbreak and has made it possible to significantly reduce source soil erosion).

Relief of malnutrition: several UN agencies (FAO, WHO) recommend favoring crops that are both adapted to local climates, inexpensive and with high nutritional values. The Moringa tree fits perfectly with this policy thanks to its supply of essential vitamins and minerals which help the most disadvantaged regions to fight malnutrition, especially among children and pregnant women.

Water purification:The UN declared access to drinking water as a fundamental right in its charter of July 28, 2010. But even today, hundreds of millions of people still do not have access to it. The antiseptic and purifying qualities of organic Moringa can offer an interesting medium-term alternative. Indeed, it contains biodegradable cationic dimers which absorb and neutralize the impurities present in the water, making it suitable for consumption. In addition, organic Moringa oleifera leaf powder has the same antiseptic properties as soap and can also be used as a hygiene product.