MORINGGA OLIEFERA (MALUNGAY)

Moringa oleifera is the most widely cultivated species of the genus Moringa. English common names include: moringa, drumstick tree (from the appearance of the long, slender, triangular seed-pods), horseradish tree (from the taste of the roots, which resembles horseradish), ben oil tree, or benzoil tree (from the oil which is derived from the seeds).

Moringa is used for “tired blood” (anemia); arthritis and other joint pain (rheumatism); asthma; cancer; constipation; diabetes; diarrhea; epilepsy; stomach pain; stomach and intestinal ulcers; intestinal spasms; headache; heart problems; high blood pressure; kidney stones; fluid retention; thyroid disorders; and bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections.

It is also used to reduce swelling, increase sex drive (as an aphrodisiac), prevent pregnancy, boost the immune system, and increase breast milk production. Some people use it as a nutritional supplement or tonic.

The leaves, fruit, and seeds might be safe when eaten as food. However, it’s important to avoid eating the root and its extracts. These parts of the plant may contain a toxic substance that can cause paralysis and death. Moringa has been used safely in doses up to 6 grams daily for up to 3 weeks.

There isn’t enough proof that moringa is safe when used in medicinal amounts.

Precautions

If you are pregnant, avoid using the root, bark or flowers of moringa. Chemicals in the root, bark, and flowers can make the uterus contract and might cause miscarriage. There is not enough information available about the safety of using other parts of moringa during pregnancy. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Some research suggests that Moringa increase breast milk production. However, there isn’t enough study to know if it is safe for the nursing infant. Therefore, it is best to avoid moringa if you are breast-feeding.

 

Interactions

The following are some of the effects of Moringa, hence:

Moringa may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that also increase the risk of bleeding. Some medicines includes aspirin, anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin or heparin, antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen

Moringa may lower blood sugar levels. So it should not be used together with drugs that also lower blood sugar. Medication for diabetics should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare professional. Medication adjustments may be necessary.

Moringa may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs. For example, taking moringa together with liver’s cytochrome P450 enzyme system may cause increased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions.

It is important to take advice from your doctor or health care provider before taking any natural or artificial medicine.

The appropriate dose of moringa depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At present, there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for moringa. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Moringa products may come in capsules, tablets, and oils.

 

Available brands:

  • Morelac (Pharmacare)
  • Morizinc (Pharmacare)
  • Natalac (Metropolitan Pharma)
  • Pro-Lacta (Pascual Lab)
  • Oleia oil

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