As an invasive species
by Admin
Posted on 05-03-2025 12:57 PM
The
Moringa
could be one of the most diverse, unique and precious trees we can grow; it has a positive influence on everything from clean water to our
health
. We love this tree!
reach out to your local summerwinds nursery over the next couple of weeks to find out when these incredible trees will be ready for you to buy.
In the meantime, start thinking about where you’ll plant one in your yard!
note: our blogs are written specifically for arizona—and the valley, when possible. If you live outside of arizona, we encourage you to check the invasive species list for the state in which you live before planting a moringa tree, as it is considered invasive in some other states and ecosystems.
Traditional medicine and research
Takeaway
moringa oleifera may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits like boosting liver, heart, and skin health and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. Moringa oleifera is a fairly large tree native to north india that has been used in traditional herbal remedies for thousands of years.
It goes by various names, such as drumstick tree, horseradish tree, or ben oil tree. Almost all parts of the tree, including the bark, pods, and leaves, are eaten or used as ingredients in traditional herbal medicines. In fact, researchers have found over 90 bioactive plant compounds that may help protect against oxidative stress, inflammation, fungi, and cancer, among other benefits.
Phytochemicals are chemicals produced by plants. The moringa tree has been found to have some rather unique compounds, including some that are reported to have anti-cancer and anti-bacterial properties. Its anti-bacterial properties are what makes it such a great water purifier! moringa’s compounds (of the glucosinolate, isothiocyanate, and other groups) are shown in the image below. I will mainly focus on moringa benefits that have been well-researched. There are a plethora of other reported benefits, including some that have been used for 100’s (possibly 1000’s) of years in traditional medicine. These remedies are either eaten or applied topically, with extracts , poultices, creams , powders , oils , and salves.
How to Grow and Care for Moringa Plants
Plant the moringa in a bright, sunny location that receives direct sunlight for most of the day. Growth may be stunted if the plants do not receive enough light.
Moringa needs warm summer nights to grow and thrive, so keep the delicate seedlings about 60℉. If the temperatures go below this, bring the plants inside each night and put them back outside whenever the temperatures increase the following day. Moringa is a warm-season crop; make sure any risk of frost is gone. That depends on where you live.
Moringa, (moringa oleifera), small deciduous tree (family moringaceae) native to tropical asia but also naturalized in africa and tropical america. Flowers, pods, leaves, and even twigs are cooked and eaten. The leaves, which can also be eaten raw when young, are especially nutritious and are high in iron , potassium , and vitamin c. A horseradish-flavoured condiment is prepared from the crushed roots. Ben oil, extracted from the seeds, is used by watchmakers and in cosmetics; perfume makers value it for its retention of scents. Moringa trees can reach a height of about 9 metres (30 feet) and have corky gray bark.
Moringa seed oil is beneficial for the skin and hair and is effective against the infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The healing effects of this herb prevent the development of skin lesions and inhibit the formation of plaque caused by the infecting virus. The hydrating and antioxidant effects of moringa extracts help in neutralizing the effects of harmful pollutants, prevent wrinkles, and slowdowns aging. For the same reason, it is used in the production of cosmetics and skincare products as well. The favorable effects of moringa seed oil for hair care have been appreciated since ancient times. It is highly beneficial in protecting the hair from environmental damage, including ultraviolet radiation.