How Are You Healing Today? *Tree of Life*
- Nancy Trott, BCNP, CHN, FBCA
- Jul 13
- 4 min read
Meet The Tree of Life
Moringa Oleifera first caught my attention while I was researching herbs that support skin health and help to heal auto-immune skin conditions, which I and many of my clients are working to heal. Moringa has an incredible nutrient profile! Boasting minerals like iron, chromium and potassium, antioxidants (a real powerhouse for antioxidants!), amino acids (it contains all 9 essential amino acids, which are compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins!), vitamin C and various phenolics. It is known to be pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, anti-asthmic, anti-ulcer, anti-spasmodic, anti-bacterial, anti-perglycemic, and antioxidant.
Moringa has been shown to be beneficial for supporting the healing of many conditions including cardiovascular, metabolic syndromes, wound healing, improving gut health, weight management, asthma and edema, to name a few. Notably, Moringa has been used topically for a range of skin concerns including:
Psoriasis - Moringa oil may benefit psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory properties, moisturizing properties, antioxidant properties, and anti-bacterial/fungal properties;
Acne - it is believed that the vitamin A reduces excess keratin production, which is considered a trigger for acne;
Reduction of skin spots - the beta-carotene in Moringa can penetrate the skin and boost retinol esters, which when activated can stimulate the skin to produce new cells that can help fade skin spots;
Protection from UV radiation - thanks to the vitamin E content;
Promotes wound healing - also thanks to vitamin E.
Moringa is so nutrient-dense that it is used as a meal replacement for malnourished communities across the world. It improves digestion, replenishes nutrients, improves growth and performance, and has antioxidant properties. In fact, a study comparing Morninga to alfalfa showed that Moringa leaf had a viable impact on all tested metrics, including weight gain and improved liver and spleen index.
Moringa can be used as an alternative to hand-soap. The leaves of the plant are commonly used for water filtration as they are able to kill E.coli and staph in water. Studies examining Moringa as an alternative to traditional anti-bacterial soaps found that it is equally effective.
Moringa helps with mood. It has been used for nervous system ailments in Ayurveda for centuries. Its amino acid profile, particularly tryptophan, supports neurotransmitter function and the production of serotonin.
Moringa can support longevity and is considered “The Miracle Tree” and “The Tree of Life”. One of many reasons for this name is that Moringa contains more boron that any other known plant, which supports healthy immune function, cognition, and decreased risk of mortality.
Ways to Add Moringa to your Health-style
The leaves, fruit, oil and seeds from the Moringa tree have been consumed safely for centuries. You can find various forms of supplements or extracts available in the marketplace, including teas, oils, seeds and dried powder. It is very important to purchase the purest kind that you can find and to read ingredient labels carefully to ensure that you get the most Moringa benefits possible.
Energy Boost Smoothie
Select organic ingredients, filtered water, and check your local shop to see if buying organic frozen fruit is a cost saver over fresh fruit😊
Blend up:
1 cup of sweet cherries
1 cup of blueberries or blackberries (or some of each😊)
1 cup of pineapple
1 chunk of ginger (a chunk is about the size of a thumbnail)
*Tip – give your ginger a wash and then include the skin in your smoothie. The skin is full of anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants!
1 tsp of Moringa powder
2 cups of filtered water (add until you reach your desired consistency)
*Looking for a creamier smoothie – Add your favourite plant milk (add as much as you need for the desired consistency), or try adding a banana or some avocado
*If adding avocado, add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice to keep the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown
This smoothie is packed with great nutrients, including Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Magnesium, Manganese, essential amino acids, over 8g of fiber (more if you add banana or avocado), digestive enzymes, and antioxidants (ginger, cherries, blueberries, blackberries, avocados are all on the Top 80 Antioxidants list!)
*Note: Moringa for many people is quite energizing, so I recommend trying this smoothie at the start of your day😊
*Note: if you have a sensitivity or allergy to any of the ingredients, avoid including them in your smoothie.
Cautions and Considerations
Be mindful if you have allergies or sensitivities to Moringa, and avoid this in food or supplement form;
When eaten or used on the skin, Moringa is generally considered to be well-tolerated. However, Moringa side effects are still possible and may include:
lower blood pressure
slowed heart rate
uterine contractions and interference with fertility
cell mutations when high amounts of seeds are consumed
lower blood pressure
slowed heart rate
uterine contractions and interference with fertility
cell mutations when high amounts of seeds are consumed
gastrointestinal upset
researchers have identified that taking high doses of Moringa may cause an increase of iron in the blood, which can cause stomach problems and worsen hemochromatosis (excessive iron in the body). It is not recommended to have more than 70 grams per day.
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and children, should not take Moringa in any form, as not enough research has been done in these populations.
A 2021 study showed that Moringa may interact with medications used to treat diabetes, blood pressure, and thyroid disorders, and that is may not be safe if you are pregnant.
If you have an underlying health condition, it is recommended that you consult with your trusted healthcare professional before taking Moringa Oleifera. It is also important to follow the dosage guidelines on the label of any supplements.
Transform yourself by learning how to promote healing in your body, naturally. Explore working with Nancy, our Holistic Nutritionist, by contacting us today for a free 15-minute Discovery Call!
