Moringa has been referred to as the miracle tree not only for its vitamins and minerals, but for its many uses. The ancient world used the tree for a variety of uses and now many in sub-Saharan Africa are finding out the uses of this powerful tree. It has gone by many names, but is know by most as Moringa the miracle tree.

Moringa is available in thirteen different varieties. Most varieties grow in Asia and Africa with the most widely grown variety being Moringa Oleifera. It is a hardy variety able to withstand the drought season and roots sturdy enough to withstand high wings and a long Sub-Sahara rainy season. Moringa Leaf Powder is the most popular and well known part of the plant. Green-Fu leafs are picked fresh washed and dried out of direct sunlight from the sun. The leaves are dried and ground into a powder.

Moringa Powder's Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin A: Vitamin A and its precursor, beta-carotene, are powerful free radical scavengers. Vitamin A also is necessary for healthy skin and mucous membranes, the bodys first line of defense against invading microorganisms and toxins, and promotes the immune response. Beta-carotene and vitamin A destroy carcinogens, guard against heart disease and stroke, and lower levels of cholesterol.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Thiamine enhances circulation and aids in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism, and the creation of hydrochloric acid, which is vital for proper digestion. Thiamine also optimizes cognitive activity and brain function. It has a positive impact on energy, growth, normal appetite, and learning capacity, and is necessary for muscle tone of the intestines, stomach, and heart. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from the degenerative effects of aging, alcohol consumption, and smoking.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin is essential for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration, and growth. It alleviates eye fatigue and is essential in the prevention and management of cataracts. It supports the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Together with vitamin A, it maintains and improves the mucous membranes in the digestive tract. Riboflavin also facilitates the use of oxygen by the tissues of the skin, nails, and hair. Consumption of adequate levels of riboflavin is vital during pregnancy, because a lack of this vitamin can damage a developing fetus even though the women show no indications of deficiency.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an extremely powerful antioxidant that also protects other antioxidants, such as vitamin E. The cells of the brain and spinal cord, which regularly incur free radical damage, can be protected by significant amounts of vitamin C. Vitamin C acts as a stronger free radical scavenger in the presence of a bioflavonoid called hesperidins.

Calcium: Calcium is important for the formation of strong bones and teeth and for the upkeep of healthy gums. It is also crucial in the maintenance of a regular heartbeat and the transmission of nerve impulses. Calcium lowers blood cholesterol levels and helps prevent cardiovascular disease. It is needed for muscular growth and contraction, and the prevention of muscle cramps. It may increase the rate of bone growth and bone mineral density in children. This important mineral is also essential in blood clotting and helps prevent cancer. Finally it protects against the development of preeclampsia during pregnancy, the biggest cause of maternal death.

Potassium: Potassium is vital for healthy nervous system and a regular heart rhythm. It aids in preventing stroke, supports proper muscle contraction and works with sodium to regulate the bodys water balance. It also regulates the transfer of nutrients through cell membranes. Signs of potassium deficiencies include abnormally dry skin, acne, chills, cognitive impairment, constipation, depress, diarrhea, diminished reflex function, edema, nervousness and fluctuations in heartbeat.

Iron: The key iron function in the body is the production of hemoglobin and myoglobin and the oxygenation of red blood cells. Iron is the mineral found in the largest amounts in the blood. It is vital for many enzymes, including catalase, and is vital for growth. Iron is also essential for a healthy immune system and for energy production. Iron deficiency symptoms include anemia, brittle hair, difficulty swallowing, digestive disturbances, dizziness, fatigue and fragile bones.