PENGOBATAN TRADISIONAL INDONESIA

Benefits of Moringa Leaves

A. Moringa as traditional medicine The 

leaves of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) are tropical plants that have long been used as traditional medicine. This plant can be recognized by its small leaf shape. Moringa trees are also easy to grow and can live in soil that is not very fertile. 

Moringa leaves can be processed into herbs, herbal teas, and supplements. Not a few people also use Moringa leaves as a cooking ingredient. In traditional medicine, Moringa leaves are believed to be efficacious for treating diabetes, joint pain, bacterial infections, and cancer.

B. Nutritional Content of Moringa Leaves

In about 2 grams of Moringa leaves, contain 14 calories and a variety of the following nutrients:

• 2 grams of protein

• 1.8-2 grams carbohydrates

• 0.8 milligrams iron

• 8.8 milligrams magnesium

• 70 milligrams potassium

• 38-40 milligrams of calcium

• 11 milligrams of vitamin C

• 600 IU of vitamin A

• 8.5 micrograms of folate

In addition to the various nutrients above, Moringa leaves also contain B vitamins, fiber, phosphorus, selenium, zinc, and copper. Moringa leaves also contain many antioxidants, such as polyphenols.

C. Benefits of Moringa Leaves for Health

It has been previously mentioned that Moringa leaves are known as one of the herbal plants that are good for health. The following are the various benefits of Moringa leaves that can be obtained:

1. Lowering blood sugar levels

       A study found that Moringa leaves can reduce blood sugar levels and increase the effectiveness of the insulin hormone. This benefit is good for preventing diabetes and insulin resistance.

However, the benefits of Moringa leaves as a treatment for diabetes in humans still need further investigation.

2. Overcoming inflammation

       Inflammation is the body's natural response to infection or injury. However, you can consume Moringa leaves to relieve inflammation. Moringa leaf extract is believed to contain substances that can reduce inflammation.

3. Controlling blood pressure

       Moringa leaves contain lots of potassium and antioxidants. Thanks to these ingredients, this plant is known to be useful for lowering blood pressure and keeping it stable so that it can prevent hypertension.

4. Maintain brain health and function

      The antioxidant content in Moringa leaves is also beneficial for maintaining brain health and function. Several studies have shown that adequate intake of antioxidants can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Moringa leaves are also believed to be good for supporting brain performance and improving memory.

5. Inhibits the growth of cancer cells The

      extract of the leaves and bark of the Moringa tree is proven to be effective in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, such as breast, pancreatic and colon cancer. The benefits of Moringa leaves are thought to be due to their antioxidant content which can prevent cell damage due to free radicals.

6. Increase endurance

      Based on laboratory studies, Moringa leaf extract is known to protect the body from various types of germs, such as Salmonella typhi which causes typhus, Escherichia coli which causes diarrhea, and Staphylococcus aureus which causes skin infections.

Moringa leaves are also known to fight viruses, especially the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

In addition to the various benefits above, Moringa leaves are also believed to be good for reducing cholesterol, overcoming erectile dysfunction, and preventing the recurrence of asthma symptoms.

D. Things that need to be considered before consuming Moringa

Unfortunately, the various benefits of Moringa leaves still need further research regarding their effectiveness in humans. Therefore, you are advised to consult a doctor first before using Moringa leaves as a treatment for certain diseases.

Keep in mind also that so far Moringa leaves have not been proven safe for consumption by pregnant women. Moringa leaves should also not be consumed if you are undergoing certain medications, because they risk causing drug interactions.

Name: Salsabila Indah Nugraha

Class: X-PB 1