Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Moringa Leaves: Potent Prevention for Alzheimer's Disease

The Moringa oleifera plant is highly regarded by dieticians and medical researchers and practitioners due to its superior nutritional content and numerous medical applications. The antioxidant properties of the moringa plant have been well established by previous medical studies and are believed to provide protection against the effects of free radicals that can cause aging and other negative health effects. Recent studies suggest that moringa leaves can also provide protection against the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and may even delay its onset.

Alzheimer’s disease
A form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is believed to have a genetic component but can strike even those with no family history of the disease. Most cases of Alzheimer’s occur in individuals over 65 years of age, but the disease can strike much earlier in cases of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. As in other types of dementia, the patient experiences confusion, loss of normal brain function, unpredictable or aggressive tendencies and a gradual deterioration of the mental capacities. This degeneration of the nervous system eventually leads to death. While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not well understood, research studies seem to indicate that the disease is related to the build-up of fibrous protein compounds within the brain known as amyloids. These amyloids present within the brain as plaques or neurofibrillary tangles and are thought to disrupt the normal functioning of neural impulses within the brain.

Treatment
Because there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, most treatments focus on delaying the progress of the disease and alleviating symptoms. Natural treatments including medical marijuana have produced impressive results in preventing continued degeneration. Other treatments focus on improving the emotional state of the patient and controlling any aggressive or violent tendencies that may occur due to the deteriorating mental condition.

Contributing factors
Although the precise cases of Alzheimer’s disease are not yet known, a number of correlating factors have been identified that may be responsible for triggering or worsening Alzheimer’s in some patients. These factors include the age and gender of the patient, the use of cigarettes and alcohol, genetic factors, congenital conditions including Down’s syndrome and multiple sclerosis, and the overall level of fat intake by the patient. Most of these factors are not directly under the control of the individual at risk for the disease.

Prevention
Lifestyle changes are often recommended in order to help delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. These include smoking cessation strategies, reduction of alcohol consumption and, especially, a reduction in fat intake. It is in the latter area that moringa leaves have been shown to be most useful in delaying or preventing Alzheimer’s in vulnerable individuals. A study published in the Annals of Neurosciences in 2005 showed a significant improvement in brain function in rats whose diets were supplemented by moringa leaves prior to their exposure to colchicine, a substance that mimics the action of Alzheimer’s in the brain. Despite the presence of this substance, rats retained much of their cognitive abilities and navigated a previously-completed maze far more accurately and quickly than the control group. These results were attributed to the antioxidant properties of moringa leaves, which served to scavenge free radicals from the system and to protect neural function.

Conclusions
Moringa leaves appear to delay or mitigate the effects of Alzheimer’s disease in laboratory rats due to the supplement’s antioxidant effects. The research indicates that moringa supplements may lessen the impact of Alzheimer’s in individuals already suffering from the disease and may delay or prevent its onset in those who are at risk of developing this devastating illness. By incorporating moringa leaf supplements into daily dietary plans, it is likely that most individuals can improve their chances of avoiding the worst effects of Alzheimer’s disease for themselves and their families.

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Moringa Oleifera as Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

In most cases, inflammation is the body’s response to another process rather than a disease or illness in its own right. Inflammation is a result of the body’s own natural immune response and is usually caused by the increased presence of plasma and white blood cells in the affected area. This response involves the vascular systems as well as the autoimmune response and is a necessary part of the healing process, but can cause serious problems when the inflammation becomes chronic or is extreme in its duration or extent. Inflammation is usually categorized as either acute or chronic and treatment for the condition is dependent in part on the cause of the inflammation and its acute or chronic status.

Symptoms
There are five main symptoms of inflammation. These occur in both chronic and acute cases and are distinguishing characteristics of the condition. Not all symptoms are present in all cases of inflammation. The five primary symptoms are:

• Heat

• Redness

• Pain
• Reduced function
• Swelling
In most cases of inflammation, pain, swelling and reduced function are the most important symptoms and create the most difficulties for patients with the condition.

Acute inflammation
Typically, acute inflammation is the result of an injury or pathogenic substance that affects the body negatively. In these cases, the movement of white blood cells and plasma to the affected site or to combat the substance in the bloodstream is a necessary part of the immune system response to infection and injury. While medications are available to reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by the body’s reaction to pathogens or injuries, they typically are intended to reduce the pain and not to eliminate the inflammation caused by this helpful and necessary immune response.

Chronic inflammation
In some cases the body’s reaction to pathogens or other stimuli is far more extreme and prolonged than necessary. This is especially true in cases where the pathogens cannot be eliminated by the immune system or in cases where another factor is preventing the immune response from fully addressing the infection or combating the injury. Arthritis, atherosclerosis and diverticulitis are among the most common types of chronic inflammatory diseases. These illnesses can potentially be serious or life-threatening if the inflammation is not properly controlled and treated. The effects of chronic inflammation typically are of long duration and become worse over time if left untreated.

Moringa and inflammation
The moringa plant is well known for its therapeutic effects in both modern medicine and traditional practice. Formally known as Moringa oleifera, this versatile and nutritious plant is currently the subject of intense scrutiny by the medical establishment to determine its utility in treating and preventing a variety of diseases. One of the most promising uses for moringa extract is in the treatment of various types of acute and chronic inflammation. A 1996 research study published in Pharmaceutical Biology demonstrated the anti-inflammatory properties of moringa extract in the treatment of both acute and chronic forms of inflammation. The moringa extract was ingested by laboratory rats as a treatment for both edema and carrageenan-induced inflammation; while the results for the acute inflammation were markedly better than those obtained for the chronic variety, both types of inflammation were significantly reduced by the treatments in the course of the study. Side effects were minimal due to the exceptionally low toxicity of moringa even at high dosages.

Conclusions
Moringa extract supplements have been shown to reduce the level of inflammation in laboratory animals in both chronic and acute cases. Further studies are currently underway to assess the effectiveness of this treatment, but it can be safely assumed that a regular regimen of moringa supplements may produce safe, reliable reductions in inflammation for most individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases.
Research found that the Moringa leaves posses substances that have antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, in fact they found that it has high quantities of this substances. This means that Moringa Oleifera use in Indian traditional medicine as a treatment of ailments, particularly those related to pain and inflammation was just.
The effects of the Moringa is suppressing the COX-2enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for inflammation processes and pain. Usually the drugs used to suppress this enzyme are NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs),such as Voltaren, Nksin, Adoil, ARCOXIA, Kaspo etc. The side effects of these products include risk for stroke, kidney problems, blood vessels problems, stomach problems and the list goes on. Combine the risks from the side effects with the existing condition causing the need to take the NSAID and the the presence of pain combined with an inflammatory issue, and the risk for medical complication grows.
Moringa Oleifera is a pure natural tree that has been used as food and as medicine along history, this means that it is much safer to use than NSAID but with similar effectiveness and less toxicity


For more info on our products contact High Hill Moringa Farm on +2348065220074

Moringa: An Ally in Boosting Immune System Response

The immune system is the body’s first and last line of defense against pathogens and disease; without a well functioning immune system, even the most innocuous bacterial and viral infections could overwhelm physical systems and lead to serious illness or even death. In healthy individuals, the immune system consists of several different layers of protection including the physical barrier of the skin, the innate immune response that reacts to any pathogenic intrusion immediately, and the more specialized adaptive immune response.

Components of the immune system
The adaptive immune response is designed to combat specific pathogens; typically, specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes attack the infection or intrusion. The body produces three types of lymphocytes, known as B cells, T cells and natural killer or NK cells. T cells and B cells are tasked with identifying and responding to specific threats to the body. This process is called antigen representation and allows the cells to produce specific responses to pathogens that the body has previously encountered. NK cells use a slightly different process and can defend against some pathogens to which the individual may not previously have exposed.

Identifying the threats
Healthy immune systems are necessary in order to fend off disease and protect the body against toxins and pathogens. The immune system also reacts to mutations and cancerous growths within the body, typically attacking these cells with cytotoxic granules that contain powerful cell-killing enzymes. In all these cases, the value of the immune system depends on its ability to distinguish between the organism’s own cellular structures and those of external pathogens. One way in which this is achieved is through immunological memory. Vaccinations are effective due to this ability of the immune system to remember and maintain active defenses against previously encountered bacteria and viruses, essentially destroying these pathogens before they can gain a foothold in the body.

Disorders of the immune system
Perhaps the best known disorder of the immune system is AIDS, but a number of other physical conditions can cause weakening of the immune system that can potentially lead to additional complications. Poor nutrition can cause depressed immune system responses, as can alcoholism and drug abuse. Young children and the elderly are also vulnerable due to a reduced immune capacity and often are more prone to contracting illnesses during these stages of life.
A number of natural and pharmaceutical substances are used to boost the body’s ability to fight off disease. The Moringa oleifera plant shows outstanding promise in this regard with significant beneficial effects on the immune processes within the body; a study published in 2007 in the scientific journal Food Chemistry showed that moringa leaves contain powerful antioxidants that can supplement and support the body’s own natural immune functions.

The antioxidant properties of moringa leaves allow the immune system to fight off infections and cancers more effectively, providing the body with a secondary line of defense against pathogens and offering hope to those suffering from reduced immunity due to illness, congenital disorders and other factors. Moringa supplements offer very low risk of side effects, making them a valuable addition to dietary regimens among susceptible populations.

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Relief for Gastric Ulcers Through the Use of Moringa Leaf Supplements

Gastric ulcers are one of the most painful and debilitating forms of digestive system disorders. Also known as peptic ulcers, these inflammations and irritations of the stomach wall can cause painful symptoms and serious complications in affected individuals. The most common signs of gastric ulcer include pain before or after eating, heartburn, nausea, bloating and vomiting blood. In serious or advanced cases gastric ulcers can lead to perforation of the stomach wall that can in turn lead to acute peritonitis, a potentially life-threatening condition. The bleeding that usually occurs with gastric ulcers can cause significant blood loss that can create a health risk even in the absence of other complicating factors.

Causes of gastric ulcer
Most cases of gastric ulcer are caused by a breakdown in the immune system that allows Helicobacter pylori bacteria to infect the stomach, leading to severe inflammation and breaks in the tissue lining the stomach walls. Essentially the buildup of these bacteria within the stomach causes interference with the normal production and regulation of gastric acids, creating excessive acid that eats away at the stomach wall lining over time. Other contributing factors include changes in the blood chemistry that affect the acid resistance of the stomach, dietary choices, drinking and smoking and cancerous growths in the stomach. Stress can also cause gastric ulcers, either alone or in combination with the other factors.

Diagnosis
Gastric ulcers are usually diagnosed based on the patient’s reported symptoms. In some cases, however, specialized X-ray and scanning procedures are necessary in order to ascertain the presence of gastric ulcers. These diagnostic aids include barium contrast X-rays and endoscopic assessment. While some physicians perform tests to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the bloodstream, this is usually less than effective because the tests cannot distinguish between past build-ups and current conditions within the body. Breath tests, biopsies and stool samples can all be used to verify a diagnosis of gastric ulcer depending on the patient and the severity of the condition.

Complications of gastric ulcers
Left untreated, gastric ulcers typically progress and worsen. This typically leads to heavier bleeding that can cause significant issues due to blood loss and drainage into the stomach cavity. Major scarring can occur as well as perforation of the stomach wall and the attendant peritonitis that can cause even more serious infections and potentially could cause death in some vulnerable patients.

Moringa oleifera and ulcers
The Moringa oleifera plant offers significant benefits to those suffering from gastric ulcers. A number of medical studies have identified the positive effects of moringa leaves in treating these dangerous digestive tract disorders; for example, a study entitled Phytochemical Screening and Antiulcerogenic Effect of Moringa Oleifera Aqueous Leaf Extract and published in 2006 in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines demonstrated the effectiveness of moringa leaves in relieving the symptoms and improving the prognosis of laboratory rats suffering from gastric ulcerations. The mechanism by which moringa leaf extract heals these ulcers is not fully understood. The supplements may work in a number of ways including reducing the inflammation caused by an excessive build-up of Helicobacter pylori, increasing capillary resistance to these bacteria and increasing the patient’s exposure to proven antioxidants that can eliminate free radicals in the system and improve the overall health of the individual.

Conclusions
The use of moringa leaves in treating ulcers and digestive tract orders has long been a staple element in the Ayurvedic medical tradition of India. With further research into the beneficial effects of moringa leaf extracts for patients, it is expected that these traditional medical uses will be validated for the modern medical community and that moringa supplements will be incorporated into the treatment regimen for patients suffering from this painful and dangerous digestive tract condition.

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HIV and AIDS: Moringa's Role In Treatment

One of the most feared and least understood diseases, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a degenerative illness that affects the immune system and is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, more commonly referred to as the HIV virus. AIDS is spread through fluid exchange and can be transmitted through sexual acts, shared medical syringes, breastfeeding, transfusions and other activities that allow bodily fluids to be introduced into the bloodstream. No vaccine or cure is available for HIV or AIDS, but a number of treatments can lessen the symptoms and extend the lives of patients infected with the disease.


History
The first known cases of AIDS were identified by the Center for Disease Control in 1981 in Los Angeles, California. The HIV virus had been reported in the Congo two decades earlier. A close genetic relative of the simian immunodeficiency virus found in African monkey populations, HIV is believed to have made the jump from chimpanzees to humans sometime in the early 1900s. This mutation allowed the HIV virus to infect humans and to be passed readily from person to person. Once exposed, individuals who carry the HIV virus are considered to be HIV-positive and are at significant risk of developing AIDS. Not all individuals who test positive for HIV will contract AIDS; it is not well understood what allows some HIV-positive persons to avoid developing the disease.


Complications of AIDS
The suppression of the immune system produced by AIDS can cause a number of other ailments, many of which can prove debilitating or fatal. In poorer nations, tuberculosis is one of the most common side effects of AIDS, while candidiasis, Karposi’s sarcoma and cryptococcal meningitis affect AIDS sufferers worldwide. Two of the most damaging complications are the characteristic wasting of body tissues and musculature and the deterioration of the patient’s mental state into AIDS dementia complex as the disease progresses. These illnesses are related to the failure of the immune system rather than direct results of the HIV virus or AIDS itself and are typically referred to as opportunistic infections since they take advantage of the body’s weakened immune system.


Treatment
There is no cure for AIDS, but a number of antiretroviral drugs offer significant protection against the opportunistic infections characteristic of the syndrome. These antiretroviral drugs are divided into five separate groups:

  • Nucleoside and nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors
  • Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
  • Protease inhibitors
  • Entry inhibitors
  • Integrase inhibitors
These drugs act in concert with each other to prevent the HIV virus from replicating and inserting copies of itself into other cells, thus slowing the spread of the disease and reducing its effects on the immune system. Antioxidants have also proven helpful both before and after the onset of AIDS symptoms in boosting the immune system, while proper nutrition is essential to maintain health in HIV-positive patients.

The role of moringa powder in treating HIV and AIDS
Moringa oleifera is a versatile, highly nutritious plant that grows in a wide range of climates and can survive for extended periods in dry, near-drought conditions. A number of studies have recently been completed or are currently underway to investigate the utility of moringa powder in treating HIV-positive patients in areas where there is a critical shortage of medical supplies and antiretroviral drugs are prohibitively expensive or unavailable. Moringa leaves contain powerful antioxidants that can help prevent or delay some of the worst complications arising from AIDS, so it is a natural choice for areas where modern medical facilities are scarce and overcrowded.

The proceedings of the 14th International AIDS Conference held in Barcelona, Spain in 2002 included a recommendation that moringa powder be considered as an alternative treatment to boost the immune systems of HIV-positive patients in Africa who would otherwise not receive antiretroviral drugs or, in fact, any treatments at all. Because moringa also provides superior nutritional value for patients it can also prove useful in preventing immune system breakdown due to malnutrition, thus offering even more help for poorer areas in Africa and around the globe. While moringa's antioxidant and nutritional benefits cannot directly compete with the superior results of modern antiretrovirals, it shows promise in providing reduced mortality rates and improved health for HIV-positive and AIDS patients in these less developed areas.

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Moringa Extract: Added Control of Herpes Symptoms

The herpes virus causes two distinct illnesses in humans. Known as herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2, these ailments are usually not life-threatening and are typically more of an inconvenience than a threat to sufferers. Both types of herpes are extremely contagious and can be readily passed by physical contact, making them a significant health problem in most populated areas. The primary symptoms of the disease in both forms are the characteristic blisters and subsequent scabs that erupt on the skin, either around the mouth and nose or in the genital areas.

The location of these watery, painful blisters is generally used to determine which type of herpes the patient has. Herpes simplex virus 1 is associated with cold sores that form around the mouth, while herpes simplex virus 2 is generally known as genital herpes. In rare cases, the virus responsible for one type of herpes can present in the area most usually associated with the other variety.

Diagnosis
Because the two types of herpes simplex virus are so genetically similar, blood tests can only detect the presence of the virus in the bloodstream. Blood tests cannot detect the specific variety responsible for the symptoms. Generally, patients become aware of the infection due to the blisters and scabs caused by the herpes virus and seek medical treatment based on these symptoms. Most pregnant women are tested for herpes at an early stage of the pregnancy. Active cases of herpes simplex 2 can be transmitted to babies during the delivery process unless significant measures are taken to prevent this. While herpes is typically not dangerous or life-threatening for adults, it can cause a wide range of medical problems when it is transmitted to babies. Some of the medical problems herpes inflicts on babies include encephalitis, delayed development and damage to the internal organs of the infant.

Vaccine
While no vaccine for either type of herpes simplex virus has yet been released, a number of different formulas are currently undergoing trials. If proven effective, these formulas may offer some relief for current sufferers, as well as provide protection against infection in those vaccinated against the disease. Formulations currently under review are the result of genetic design and, as a result, may not be available to the public until the consequences of this genetic manipulation are well understood and documented.

Treatment
Since there is no cure for either form of herpes at present, most treatment plans focus on controlling the symptoms of the disease. Anti-viral drugs have proven effective in many cases in reducing the number of outbreaks and providing relief from the worst effects of the herpes virus in affected individuals. Some natural products have also been used with good results, including soothing aloe vera treatments and other topical creams.
One of the most effective natural remedies for herpes simplex 1 symptoms, however, is the versatile Moringa oleifera plant. In clinical studies published in Antiviral Research in November 2003, tests showed that a moderate dosage of Moringa extract produced significant effects in delaying the characteristic lesions associated with herpes.

The studies also showed doses of Moringa extract prolonging the lives of mice infected with herpes simplex virus 1. Another study published in the Indian Journal of Comparative Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases in 2005 showed similar results in equine test subjects, indicating improved results when the Moringa extract was dissolved in alcohol rather than other liquids. The overall antimicrobial effects Moringa has against the herpes simplex virus 1 appear to show great promise in combating the disease.
By supplementing other treatment regimens with Moringa extracts, it is likely that herpes sufferers can enjoy longer remission times and less severe outbreaks, allowing them to manage the disease more effectively and gain more enjoyment in daily life.

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Moringa Leaf Supplements: Guarding Against the Effects of High Cholesterol

The Moringa oleifera plant has long been used in the Ayurvedic medical tradition of India to combat cardiovascular ailments and obesity-related issues. These treatments have proven effective in many cases, but it is only in recent years that the medical establishment has begun to investigate the scientific basis for these beneficial effects. A number of medical studies have shown marked reductions in the levels of bad cholesterol present in the bloodstream of laboratory test animals.

Cholesterol and health
Cholesterol is a necessary element in building and repairing cells within the body. There are two basic types of cholesterol. Low-density and high-density lipoproteins, known as LDLs and HDLs respectively, play very different roles in maintaining physical health. HDLs help to eliminate fatty deposits from the bloodstream, enhancing cardiovascular health and promoting healthy veins and arteries. These forms of cholesterol are typically denser and more compact than their low-density counterparts. LDLs are better known as bad cholesterol and have nearly the opposite effect on the body, causing lipid deposits to form in blood vessels and contributing to heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. White blood cells in the bloodstream attack LDL buildups, causing inflammation and worsening blockages caused by this form of cholesterol.


Potential risks of LDLs
Elevated levels of bad cholesterol in the body are associated with an increased risk of atheroschlerosis and arteriosclerotic vascular disease as well as cardiovascular disease. Additionally, LDLs have been implicated in certain immune system deficiencies, making them a significant threat to health and wellness. Controlling the level of LDLs in the blood and circulatory system is crucial to extending life and improving overall physical condition, especially in largely sedentary or overweight individuals.


The role of diet
Increased intake of LDLs results in higher levels in the bloodstream. However, medical studies show that 80% of cholesterol results from production within the body itself, primarily within the liver during the breakdown of food. While maintaining a healthy, low-fat diet is helpful in reducing cholesterol, dietary changes alone are usually not sufficient to manage bad cholesterol levels effectively.

Moringa and cholesterol
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2000 showed a significant reduction in the levels of bad cholesterol in laboratory rats when moringa supplements were added to their normal daily diet. This was true in rats fed a high-fat diet as well as a standard diet; the moringa leaves reduced cholesterol levels overall. The control groups were also fed normal and high-fat diets and exhibited no such reductions in LDLs present in blood serum, further confirming the significant effect moringa supplements can produce. These results offer concrete evidence for claims made by Ayurvedic medical personnel for centuries that moringa leaves offer measurable protection against the buildup of bad cholesterol in the blood.


Implications for health care
The results of the Lipid Research Clinics Primary Prevention Trial published in 1984 indicate that overall reduction in cholesterol levels had a direct and measurable effect on the number of new instances of heart disease and angina. In layman’s terms, reducing cholesterol also reduces the chance of serious cardiovascular illness. In fact, reducing the bad cholesterol levels by 25% can produce a correlating reduction in heart attacks, strokes and other cholesterol-related illnesses by as much as 50%, making cholesterol reduction a major goal in achieving improved outcomes for patients who may be predisposed to these conditions. Incorporating moringa supplements into the daily diets of individuals who are statistically likely to experience high cholesterol levels or who may have already been diagnosed with high LDL levels may provide significant protection, especially when combined with other prescription medications.


Conclusions
The evidence that moringa leaf supplements can combat high cholesterol is overwhelming. By incorporating these natural supplements into a healthy daily dietary plan, individuals can protect themselves against the effects of high cholesterol levels more effectively even in the absence of other major lifestyle changes.

For more info on our products contact High Hill Moringa Farm on +2348065220074

Moringa as Potent Antioxidant: Protection Against Damaging Free Radicals

Oxidants, also known as free radicals, can cause serious damage to the body through the breakdown of cells. This breakdown can weaken the immune system and may be responsible for causing cataracts, some forms of cancer, arthritis, heart disease and other physical ailments; free radicals can cause accelerated aging of cells and physical systems as well. Free radicals are the result of oxygen reacting chemically with cells in the body during the breakdown of food or other substances.

These chemical compounds can damage the DNA structures of other cells, creating mutations that can cause significant alterations to the cells and may serve as precursors to cancerous growths within the body.

Antioxidants can help to protect against this damage by breaking down free radicals into their constituent parts or chemically bonding with these harmful substances and removing them from the physical system. While the body naturally synthesizes some antioxidant enzymes including catalase and glutathione, other antioxidant materials are derived from dietary sources.

Beta carotene and Vitamins A, E and C are considered to be among the most beneficial antioxidants in terms of controlling and eliminating free radicals from the body. Many antioxidant substances work to eliminate free radicals independently while others act as helpers in the process; for instance, Vitamin C acts directly to break down free radical compounds in the bloodstream, while selenium works with gluthathione to create enzymes capable of breaking down hydrogen peroxide into safe and manageable substances within the body.

The Moringa oleifera tree, colloquially known as the drumstick tree, is an outstanding dietary source of antioxidants and provides a significant portion of the daily recommended allowances of beta carotene and other vitamins and nutrients that work to cleanse free radicals from the tissues and bloodstream.

The antioxidant properties of the seeds, seed pods and leaves of the moringa plant can protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals and may help to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Additionally, the plant can help keep cells healthier and prevent premature aging.

A study by Nambiar, Guin, Parnami and Daniel published in 2010 in the Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology (Read full research) showed that the antioxidant properties of moringa leaves can be highly beneficial for overweight individuals and those who have high levels of lipids in their systems. These hyperlipidemic patients showed reductions in the amounts of fatty materials in their bloodstreams; the reduction in cholesterol levels produced by the antioxidants in moringa leaves may help to protect against coronary disease and other damaging circulatory ailments.

Combined with the highly nutritive composition of moringa leaves and seeds, the high levels of antioxidant substances in the plant can provide superior health benefits and protection against the effects of free radicals on the body. While the antioxidant benefits of moringa leaves and seed pods are especially important in parts of the world where other types of healthy food are scarce, moringa can provide significant benefits as a dietary supplement even in technologically advanced societies. By incorporating these healthy products into everyday nutritional choices, individuals can enjoy the antioxidant benefits of moringa while continuing their normal diets.

For more info on our products contact High Hill Moringa Farm on +2348065220074

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Moringa Oleifera: Preserving Liver Function

The Moringa oleifera plant has been identified as an extremely useful medicinal plant with significant health benefits. Scientific studies have shown that moringa supplements can reduce damage to the liver caused by prescription and over-the-counter medications and, in some cases, may even repair the damage and protect against further injury to the liver from illness or the use of prescription and nonprescription drugs. The therapeutic effects of moringa supplements are still being investigated, but medical research has already proven several beneficial effects of this versatile herb in treating and protecting against liver dysfunction in sensitive patients.

Liver disease
Dysfunction of the liver can cause fluctuations in blood sugar, nervous disorders, and digestive problems and, in advanced cases, the buildup of toxins within the body that can prove damaging or fatal. Alcoholism, drug abuse, long-term prescription drug use, overdose and certain diseases can cause liver dysfunction, especially in sensitive individuals. Patients with advanced liver disease typically must maintain a strict diet and may require dialysis in order to purify the blood and provide the filtering function typically performed by the liver. In some cases, moringa supplements may help to reduce and reverse the effects of liver disease and restore improved functioning to the liver, allowing it to more effectively filter toxins from the body.

Moringa and antitubercular drugs
The drugs used to treat tuberculosis can cause significant liver damage in patients, in part due to the toxic properties of these drugs. A research study published in 2003 in the Journal of Medicinal Food outlined the protective effects of moringa supplements in preventing serious liver damage in vulnerable patients. The antioxidant properties of the moringa plant helped to flush these toxic chemicals from the liver before they caused serious damage, thus protecting the health of the patient without compromising the effectiveness of the course of treatment.
http://www.liebertonline.com/doi/abs/10.1089/10966200360716670

Moringa and acetaminophen overdose
A study published in the August 2008 issue of Food and Chemical Toxicology indicated that moringa supplements offered significant protection against acetaminophen overdose and resulting liver damage in laboratory rats. The rats were fed moringa supplements in controlled doses before being administered a single overdose of acetaminophen. The supplements prevented a decrease in the level of glutathione, a necessary antioxidant compound that helps the liver process toxins and eliminate them from the body. By allowing the liver to maintain adequate levels of glutathione even when an overdose of acetaminophen was administered, moringa supplements provided solid protection against the negative effects and potential liver damage that typically results from such an overdose.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691508001981

Liver fibrosis
In January 2010, Food and Chemical Toxicology published a study that described the healing properties of moringa seed extract in cases of liver fibrosis. The researchers administered carbon tetrachloride to laboratory rats over the course of eight weeks in order to induce liver fibrosis, one of the most serious symptoms of advanced chronic liver disease. Liver fibrosis is caused by the buildup of proteins and collagens within the liver that reduce its ability to function; the disease typically requires dialysis or liver transplantation in its advanced stages. The research study showed significant reduction in the levels of collagens and proteins present in the liver over the course of the moringa treatments. Previously, medical researchers had believed that the course of liver fibrosis could only be slowed, not reversed. This study appears to present evidence to the contrary and provides new hope for patients suffering from advanced stages of liver fibrosis.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691509004839

Moringa and arsenic poisoning
Arsenic is one of the most common pollutants in water supplies and can cause serious health problems if ingested in larger quantities. Moringa supplements have been proven to offer some protection against the damage caused by arsenic in the water supply; a study published in Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica – Drug Research showed that Moringa oleifera extracts protected the body against the worst effects of exposure to arsenic and helped eliminate the substance from the body more efficiently.
http://ptf.content-manager.pl/pub/File/wydawnictwa/acta_pol/2007/5_07/417-421.pdf

For more info on our products contact High Hill Moringa Farm on +2348065220074

Moringa Extracts and Supplements: A New Weapon Against Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a life-threatening disease that can be difficult to detect in the early stages and is often mistaken for other illnesses. The fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, ovarian cancer claims thousands of lives every year. Early detection and treatment are crucial in improving survival rates for women diagnosed with the illness. Over ninety percent of all cases of ovarian cancer are classified as epithelial ovarian cancers; this indicates that they originate on the surface of the ovary, rather than forming inside the reproductive organs.
  
Diagnosis
Not all women experience symptoms of epithelial ovarian cancer during the early stages; those who do typically report bloating, abdominal pain and urinary tract problems as their main symptoms. The cause of these general symptoms can easily be misidentified, allowing the cancer to progress unchecked if not handled promptly. Ovarian cancers tend to grow quickly and can cause shortness of breath, inability to consume food normally due to a constricted space in the abdomen, pain or discomfort during sex and diarrhea or other intestinal tract disorders as a result of the displacement of organs by the growing tumors.

Risk factors
Genetics plays a large part in determining who will contract epithelial ovarian cancer; there appears to be a strong correlation between certain genetic mutations of the chromosome chains that also determine susceptibility for breast cancer. About ten percent of all ovarian cancers are attributed to irregularities in this genetic marker, making it a good determinant for assessing the likelihood that a particular individual will contract epithelial ovarian cancer at some point during her lifetime. Estrogen replacement treatments may also put women at higher risk. Recent studies are inconclusive on the effects of alcohol, but show a definite correlation between drinking two or more glasses of milk per day and increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Protective factors
While the exact mechanism or triggering factors for epithelial ovarian cancer are not known, research studies suggest a link between certain conditions and the development of ovarian cancer at some stage during the woman’s life. Multiple pregnancies seem to offer some protection against ovarian cancer, while childless women are often at significantly higher risk. Women who have their first child at an early age or conceive and deliver later in life also enjoy added protection. Consistent use of oral contraceptives, colloquially referred to as The Pill, also provides some protection.

Treatment
Typically, treatment options focus on removing or shrinking the cancerous areas through surgery. These methods may require the complete removal of the affected ovary or ovaries. Pharmaceutical treatments to include chemotherapy are also used to manage the disease. The prognosis for patients is quite favorable when the disease is caught in the early stages. However, as the cancer progresses the chances for patient survival decrease dramatically.

Moringa as a treatment for epithelial ovarian cancer
A recent study published in 2007 and available through the National Institute of Health indicates that Moringa oleifera supplements may serve a valuable purpose in combating epithelial ovarian cancer cells while minimizing the negative effects commonly experienced by patients undergoing other types of chemical treatments for the disease.

Moringa leaves and roots contain significant quantities of substances known as isothiocyanates and glucosinolates, both of which show promise in fighting ovarian cancer in the laboratory. Both of these chemical compounds are capable of causing apoptosis in cancer cells, a process that induces the natural death of these cells before they can reproduce themselves inside the body. Additionally, moringa supplements may help to level out hormonal disturbances that are sometimes linked to increased risk of ovarian cancer, making these supplements a solid choice for women who may be predisposed to develop ovarian cancer due to genetic or environmental factors.

While testing is still required to ascertain the extent to which moringa extracts and supplements can be used in the treatment of this deadly disease, the moringa plant may offer new hope and increased protection for women against epithelial ovarian cancer.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1924986/

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Moringa Oleifera: Powerful Natural Antibiotics to Combat Bacterial Infection

Antibiotics and anti-bacterial drugs are valuable tools in combating infections, both in topical forms and when taken internally. The antimicrobial effects of these powerful medications can be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, tuberculosis, meningitis, strep throat and many other diseases. Over 100 different compounds are classed as antibiotics, such as penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline and many other major types of anti-bacterial agents. Some antibiotics are more effective against certain bacteria, while others can be used to treat a wider range of bacterial infections. These are sometimes referred to as broad-spectrum antibiotics.

History
The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used various types of mold to treat certain ailments. These primitive antibiotics provided some protection against the growth of bacteria within wounds or systemic infections. The Ayurvedic folk medicine tradition of India also incorporated the seeds of the Moringa oleifera plant into ointments and poultices to treat infections. It is now known that these seeds contain a natural antibiotic substance known as pterygospermin.
Modern antibiotic medicine has its roots in the 1870s, however, when the effects of antibiotics were first observed and recorded by Louis Pasteur, Robert Koch and others. Alexander Fleming’s experiments with bread mold led to the identification of penicillin, a powerful antibiotic that can be used to combat a wide range of bacteria types. Physicians and health care professionals utilize synthetic, semi-synthetic and naturally-occurring antibiotics, depending on the specific illness to be treated and the needs of the individual patient.

Antibiotics Today
Modern antibiotics are typically divided into two separate classes. Bacteriostatic antibiotics prevent the division and replication of bacteria, thus stalling the infection’s growth and spread. Bactericidal antibiotics, by contrast, work to destroy the bacteria directly and work more quickly as a result. Antibiotics can be further subdivided into various families, including:
  • Cephalosporins – These antibiotics retard and prevent the formation of cell walls in most bacteria, preventing the spread of infection.
  • Glycopeptides – By attacking the cell walls and preventing them from forming or reforming properly, glycopeptides slow the progress of bacteria.
  • Quinolones – The antibiotic action of quinolones prevents the proper genetic replication of bacteria affected by these drugs.
  • Macrolides – While not recommended for use by individuals with liver problems, the macrolide line of antibiotics is typically used to treat tuberculosis, Lyme disease and leprosy.
  • Tetracyclines – One of the most popular families of antibiotics, these medications are used as broad-spectrum anti-bacterial drugs to fight a wide range of infections and diseases.
Additionally, natural antibiotics are available that can provide anti-bacterial benefits to patients suffering from infections.
 
Allergies
In some cases, certain classes or families of antibiotics cannot be ingested by patients due to serious allergies. Penicillin allergies are the most common type of antibiotic allergy, with approximately ten percent of all people reporting some degree of allergic response when treated with the drug. The most common reaction is rash or discomfort, but serious allergic reactions are also possible, including anaphylactic shock and even death.


Moringa Seeds
The seeds of the moringa plant include a natural antibiotic that can be used to treat or control infection. Pterygospermin can be used to counter the effects of a number of bacteria responsible for causing infections and also offers an anti-fungal effect for even more utility. Because pterygospermin occurs naturally in moringa seeds, it typically does not carry the same high risk of allergic response as more highly processed antibiotics.
Additionally, a study conducted in 1981 and published in Planta Medica identified the presence of benzyl isothiocyanate within the seeds. This compound is also a highly effective antibiotic and can be used to treat bacterial infection, making moringa a valuable medicinal supplement in cases where bacteria may pose a threat to health or human life.
https://www.thieme-connect.com/ejournals/abstract/plantamedica/doi/10.10...

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Treating Lupus with Moringa Oleifera

Lupus, an inflammatory, autoimmune disease, often affects the joints, skin, blood, and kidneys, and the exact cause of this chronic condition is unknown and cannot be easily defined. Authorities in the medical field indicate that it may result from a combination of factors, such as am individual’s genetic makeup along with certain unknown triggers of the disease, a bit like combining a lighted match and gasoline.
Those recently diagnosed with lupus will want to focus on reducing inflammation and managing the various symptoms that are related to the disease to maintain balance in their lives and avoid depression, panic, and fear.

There are also two essential steps they can take:
  • Learn to avoid flare-ups – Direct sunlight is the most common cause for one, but they may also be triggered by certain skin and scalp products or some medication you are taking. This may mean that you will need to take a vitamin D supplement, and you will also want to discuss all of your medications with your primary care physician.
  • Learn to live an anti-inflammatory lifestyle – This should include moderate exercise on a regular basis, giving up smoking if you are a smoker, following an anti-inflammatory diet, and taking nutritional supplements, especially omega-3s.

Why lupus victims look for alternative medications
The cost of the drugs generally used in treating lupus victims is prohibitive, and there is the possibility of serious side effects as well. Also, while they may alleviate some of the symptoms, research has yet to reveal that they actually hinder the process of the disease or help prevent damage to the organs.
Following an alternative treatment may help the patient cope with lupus or reduce the amount of stress endured by anyone who is dealing with a chronic illness. If the patient’s physician believes that one of the approaches has some merit and no negative factors, it can become part of that individual’s treatment plan, enabling him or to make an informed decision about how to proceed.

How Moringa Oleifera helps lupus patients

Moringa (also known as the horseradish tree) is a purely natural extract found in tropical regions that has been widely used in the East as a medication for centuries. It is also considered to be much safer to use than the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are often prescribed for lupus patients, including Voltaren, Kaspo, Adoil, and others. The various side effects of these drugs include the risk of kidney, circulatory, and digestive problems, just to name a few, increasing the risk of serious medical complications. Moringa, on the other hand, is less toxic than the other remedies,—and at least as effective. moringa is easy to combine with most medication because there have been no adverse reactions to it, and it contains no known impurities.

How Moringa works in the body
The leaves used for making the Moringa extract contain large amounts of anti-inflammatory, anti-toxin, and anti-oxidant elements, and they are also rich in the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that bolster our immune system. Because of the many benefits of Moringa oleifera, the European Union (EU), World health Organization (WHO) and other NGOs now plant and support its cultivation in various locations, including Africa, in order to combat malnutrition.

Above all, Moringa suppresses the COX-2 enzyme, which causes both inflammation and the pain related to it. It seems that anyone, including children and senior citizens in particular, can experience the benefits of taking Moringa. Athletes report a surge in energy from using these capsules, and many users are amazed because they feel the results so quickly.

culled from Treating Lupus with Moringa

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Moringa Oleifera: A treatment for Diabetes

Diabetes is a disease that is characterized by problems involving the hormone insulin. In healthy people, the pancreas releases insulin; insulin then works to help the body use and store the fat and sugar that is derived from the food that people eat. With diabetes, insulin can be compromised in a couple of different ways. In some cases, the pancreas doesn't produce any insulin at all. Other times, the body does not react in the right way to insulin - this is known as "insulin resistance." Finally, diabetes is sometimes characterized by a pancreas that produces an insufficient volume of insulin.

The Two Types of Diabetes
It's important to understand that diabetes is a disease that has no cure. Once a person develops diabetes, they will suffer from the condition for the rest of their life. Although diabetes may be triggered by a variety of different phenomena involving the pancreas and insulin production - or lack thereof - it can also be divided into two distinct types.
Type 1 Diabetes - Type 1 diabetes typically first arises in people under the age of 20, although it can happen at any age. Insulin-producing cells - known as beta cells - in the pancreas are completely destroyed by the body's immune system. In turn, the pancreas can no longer produce any insulin and insulin injections must be administered.
Type 2 Diabetes - With type 2 diabetes, a person's pancreas still produces insulin; the problem is that it either doesn't create enough insulin, or the person's body is resistant to the insulin that is produced. Type 2 diabetes commonly occurs in obese and overweight individuals - usually over the age of 40 - and is sometimes called "adult onset diabetes."
Managing Diabetes
There is no cure for diabetes. However, there are several ways to manage the condition in order to keep insulin at the proper level. There are several different techniques and strategies for managing diabetes. Some of them include:
  • carefully monitoring one's diet in order to keep blood sugar levels in check;
  • using insulin injections as needed to maintain optimal levels in those whose bodies don't produce the hormone;
  • keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels by using special kits that measure insulin and sugar in the blood; and
  • following an exercise routine in order to keep blood pressure levels in check.
Moringa Oleifera: A Natural Treatment for Diabetes
As with any disease or condition, doctors and researchers are constantly seeking new ways to treat and manage diabetes. People are more concerned about using harsh, synthetic medications than ever before, which is what makes the promise of a tree called Moringa Oleifera all the more exciting. Moringa Oleifera is a tree that is originally native to India, but is now grown across the globe. As it happens, people in many developing countries - particular in Africa - have been using Moringa Oleifera to treat and manage the symptoms of diabetes for years.

Why does Moringa Oleifera hold so much promise for those who suffer from diabetes?
Primarily because of its many amazing, natural benefits. Moringa Oleifera has been shown to naturally boost the immune system, which usually becomes compromised in those who suffer from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Moringa Oleifera has also been shown to possess many key anti-inflammatory benefits; diabetes often causes circulatory problems which can be managed through anti-inflammatory supplements. There are no negative side effects associated with Moringa Oleifera use, meaning that it is a safe, natural way for people to manage their blood sugarand care for their diabetes symptoms. It's just one more option for the many people who have to cope with this serious condition.

culled from Moringa Oleifera as a treatment for Diabetes
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Moringa Tree | The Miracle Tree of Life

Moringa is a natural, nutritional powerhouse

While it's one of the newer discoveries to modern science, Moringa has been making strides in various societies for thousands of years. Moringa continues to amaze the scientific world with its amazing balance of antioxidants, minerals and amino acids.

Ancient Indian writings, dating as far back as 150 B.C., refer to the Moringa plant and its uses. Early Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians prized Moringa for its therapeutic properties and also used it to protect skin, make perfume, and purify water for drinking. Now this humble plant, often called "the Miracle Tree," is coming to the forefront through Zija, the Moringa company.

Nourishing the world

Dozens of humanitarian organizations now promote the use of Moringa in poverty-stricken areas to combat malnutrition and its adverse effects on the body. Groups such as Church World Service, Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization, National Science Foundation, and others are reintroducing the different health benefits of this fast-growing, drought-resistant plant to malnourished people in various underdeveloped areas. 
While conventional treatments for malnutrition normally take months, healthcare professionals have discovered that people taking Moringa show improvement within days. One of the more amazing things Moringa is being used for is to prevent childhood blindness, a condition that can develop from vitamin A and retinol deficiencies. Moringa contains sufficient amounts of these nutrients to eliminate this condition.

The word on Moringa is out

Biochemists, natural scientists, and healthcare workers are busy substantiating ancient claims of Moringa's effectiveness in treating more than 300 conditions. Their research has led to the documentation of its astonishing range of natural vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

Many people taking Moringa have reported rapid improvements in skin, digestion, eyesight, mental clarity, and overall well-being, plus a reduction in symptoms associated with fatigue, arthritic-like conditions, and aging to name a few.

Friday, January 13, 2012

What is Moringa Oleifera- The Tree of Life

Moringa Oleifera is an amazingly generous tree! Originating in India, it is today grown in many places around the world including Nigeria.

The Moringa genus is the only member of the Moringaceae family, and it encompasses a wide range of plants, including flowering herbs and trees. The best known species within the genus is Moringa oleifera, commonly known as Horseradish tree, Benzolive, Kelor or Drumstick tree; the latter name is because of the drumstick-like shape of the long, curved seed pods characteristic of this species.

This tree is native to the area surrounding the Himalayas in India but can grow anywhere in tropical and semi-arid climates. It grows to about ten meters in height and produces leaves and pods even when water supplies are scarce, allowing it to thrive in arid climates where few other plants can survive.

Best known for its exceptional usefulness as a food and medicinal plant, nearly every part of Moringa oleifera can be used in one way or another to benefit humans and provide food and other valuable materials for farming and fuel needs.
Almost all parts of the Moringa tree are used as food, natural medicine & cosmetics, What else do you need when you have solution to food, natural medicine & cosmetics in your hand.

Read more about Moringa oleifera:

1. An abundant source of food
2. The superior nutritional value of Moringa oleifera
3. Moringa as a valuable traditional medicine tool
4. Modern medical applications of Moringa
5. Water purification with Moringa oleifera seeds
6. Bio-fuel applications of Moringa oleifera
7. Agricultural applications of Moringa oleifera
8. Current Moringa throughout the world
 
An abundant source of food
The pods and leaves of Moringa trees are used for food in numerous cultures throughout the world. First cultivated in Northern India, it was incorporated into a number of religious and cultural observances, some of which continue to this day.
Oil derived from the seeds of the Moringa was used as food and in unguents by the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians and were part of the Ayurvedic health diet in India. The tree’s hardy nature and multitude of uses has led to its cultivation Moringa with Chickpeasn in many areas including the West Indies, where it is a valuable source of food and oil products. The leaves, flowers and seed pods of the tree are highly nutritional and provide a number of necessary nutrients, including protein, beta carotene, calcium and Vitamin C.
Because Moringa tree can be grown in a wide range of climates and requires little water in order to produce leaves, pods and flowers, it is well suited to provide nutrition in areas of the world where food is scarce, including Asia and Africa. Every part of the tree can be consumed or used by either humans or animals, making it even more useful for combating malnutrition in these areas of the world.
This is especially important for young children, pregnant women and lactating mothers who require additional nutritional support during these critical formative stages. The calcium and other nutrients available in the plant products offer solid food value at a minimal cost for these high-risk individuals. A number of organizations also recommend the plant as a food source for AIDS patients, who may require additional vitamin and mineral supplements to remain relatively healthy due to their weakened immune systems.

The superior nutritional value of Moringa oleifera
One great advantage of the Moringa tree in providing food for undernourished populations is the exceptional shelf life of the foods provided. The leaves of the tree can be used fresh, cooked in the same way as spinach or dried and stored for months without requiring refrigeration. Fresh pods are known as drumsticks and are often served in much the same way as green beans; they typically are described as having a taste somewhat similar to asparagus. Dried leaves can be stirred into a sauce or consumed on their own depending on available dietary options.
The dried leaves retain all or nearly all of their nutritional value, allowing storage even in tropical conditions.
The leaves and seed pods are excellent botanical sources of protein, a nutrient that is often in short supply in developing regions.
The protein present in the leaves is highly digestible and can be used as a supplemental food for infants; because the tree continues to bear leaves even at the end of the dry season, it is especially well suited to serve as a food source in semi-arid conditions like those found in much of Africa.
The fresh leaves are an outstanding source of Vitamin C, while the dried leaf powder offers a more concentrated version of the same nutrients including about ten times the Vitamin A available from fresh carrots. Other vitamins and minerals present in the plant leaves and seed pods include high concentrations of calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and the B vitamins. Even in areas where food is relatively abundant, the exceptional nutritional content of these plants and seeds have led to their use in complete vitamin and mineral supplements.

 Moringa as a valuable traditional medicine tool
Moringa leaves, pods and roots have been used for centuries in Ayurveda treatments. Ayurveda tradition says that the plant offers remedies for 300 different conditions; as a result, its leaves and pods have been used in traditional Indian medical practices for anemia, high and low blood pressure, blood disorders, skin blemishes, fever and many other ailments.
It has even been used to treat bronchitis and other respiratory disorders, as well as tuberculosis and cholera. Many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend a tonic of the leaves for liver disorders and childbirth discomfort, since a natural antibiotic action is present in the chemical components present in the leaves and seeds.
Additionally, oil pressed from the seeds is used as a topical application for a variety of skin and muscle ailments. Moringa decoctions have also been used to treat intestinal worms and a variety of intimate ailments.
In traditional and Ayurvedic medicine, the plant has also been used to treat eye and ear infections, diarrhea, joint pain, hysteria and glandular disorders and is considered to be a preventative measure for a number of different types of cancer, especially skin cancers and cancers of the digestive or glandular systems. It is also used to treat certain cancers after they manifest themselves.

Modern medical applications of Moringa
Long overlooked by the medical establishment, the medical benefits of Moringa have only recently been explored in the scientific setting.
A number of recent studies have shown evidence that the plant is useful in boosting the levels of certain antioxidant enzymes within the body and reducing the overall level of toxic substances retained in body tissue; this may reduce the risk of cancer in individuals who include this versatile plant in their daily diet.
The plants contain a compound called pterygospermin that contains a powerful natural antibiotic and antimicrobial substance known as benzyl isothiocyanate.
This antibiotic has been proven effective against Helicobacter pylori, one of the most pervasive microbial threats to residents of poverty stricken areas around the globe. Helicobacter pylori can cause gastritis and may be responsible for duodenal and gastric ulcerations, as well as gastric cancer. Benzyl isothiocyanate acts as a near-specific antibiotic counter to this microbe and can help to protect against the microbe’s negative effects on the body even at low dosages. Additionally, a study conducted by Bharali, Tabassum and Azad and published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention in 2003 showed a correlation between ingestion of benzyl isothiocyanate compounds and a reduction in skin cancer growths in mice.
While further research is needed, the evidence for the pharmaceutical benefits of Moringa plant compounds continues to mount with further research.

Water purification with Moringa oleifera seeds
Another use for the seed pods of the Moringa tree is in water purification and treatment processes. The crushed seeds serve as a coagulant that attracts suspended particles in the water and allows them to settle to the bottom, leaving pure, clean water at the top of the treatment container. The process requires mature seed pods rather than the immature ones preferred for cooking purposes. The seeds are removed from the shell and the seed coats are removed; any discolored or misshapen seeds are discarded during this phase, leaving relatively uniform seed kernels.
The seeds are crushed and mixed with water to create a paste; this paste is then mixed and thoroughly shaken together with a larger quantity of water to produce a solution. The solution is filtered through cloth or mesh and then mixed together with the water to be treated.
The coagulant properties of the crushed seeds allow this solution to attract the particulate matter suspended in the dirty water and to move it safely to the bottom allowing the pure water to be removed from the top; the purification process requires at least two hours for full effectiveness. Because these seeds are safe and nontoxic, the water is ready for use right away rather than requiring a secondary course of purification.
One kernel typically can treat up to one liter of the dirtiest water, making this an economically sound means of water purification for distant areas. One drawback of the method is that if the water is left undisturbed for too long, secondary contamination can occur, especially if the water is left uncovered. This form of water treatment does not remove all impurities and should typically only be used in cases where the water supply is presumed to be free of chemical or biological contamination. Water purification is considered to be one of the most important functions of the plant because shortages of fresh, pure water are increasingly worrisome in locations all around the world.
This new method of purification can produce wholesome drinking water even in isolated or technologically disadvantaged areas of the world.

Bio-fuel applications of Moringa oleifera
Moringa seed pod oil can also be used to produce bio-diesel for commercial and industrial applications. While Atrophy continues to dominate the bio-diesel marketplace, a number of companies are exploring the potential of Moringa seed pod oil in this regard. Jatropha oil has a number of drawbacks, including the toxic nature of the product itself; the Jatropha plant produces less oil per acre than the Moringa plant and requires alkaline soils for best results; additionally, the oil and the plant are mildly poisonous and must be handled carefully in order to protect those who come in contact with them.
By contrast, the oil produced from the Moringa plant meets the standards required in order to be considered suitable for bio-diesel applications, which include an appropriate cetane index number to ensure solid ignition, a superior iodine number for fuel stability and a solid cold filter plugging point for use in colder climates.
The oil pressed from the seed pods meets the applicable ASTM standards for these criteria. Ironically, one factor that has discouraged companies from making use of the oil in bio-diesel production is the overall usefulness of the plant in food production. Many companies prefer to use plant material that is not also useful for food, allowing a larger percentage of the population to benefit from the plant. However, a number of smaller companies are exploring the usefulness of the plant in producing bio-diesel; especially in the Philippines, the hardy nature of the Moringa plant and the abundance of seed pod materials could provide a steady source of income for farmers and an added source of renewable, green fuel for generations of drivers and a large number of commercial and industrial needs. One major advantage of the tree over other bio-diesel fuels is that no part is wasted; the crushed seed kernels and other parts of the plant can be ground up and used as animal fodder in nearly all cases. Bio-diesel applications may offer financial hope for poverty-stricken communities and provide income streams that can help them improve services and conditions to enhance the quality of life in even the most underdeveloped and technologically backwards environments.

Agricultural applications of Moringa oleifera
Moringa has a number of agricultural uses as well. The leaves, stems and seed pods can be used as fodder or as forage material for cattle. Studies and field tests by the BIOMASA agricultural research project in Nicaragua have shown that the plant can be readily grown as a field crop and can survive for several years in that environment, allowing repeated harvest of the various parts of the plant from only one planting.
Researchers Nikolaus and Gabriele Foidl found that supplementing regular cattle feed with leaves and seed pods from the plant can increase the milk production of cattle by as much as 65 percent. Additionally, cattle that consume the plant as part of their daily diets typically experience increased weight gain; studies have shown as much as 32 percent more daily weight gain for cattle that consume the plant over those that do not. The plant is also useful as a fertilizer for other plants; a study published in the International Journal of Agriculture & Biology in 2010 showed improved germination rates and faster germination in beans, cowpeas and groundnuts. Another study conducted by Makkar and Becker in 1996 showed similar results and increased yields for crops sprayed with a solution including the extract of the Moringa plant.
While much research remains to be done, the evidence seems to suggest that, when used in conjunction with the regular regimen of fertilizers and growth stimulants, the quantity and quality of almost any crop can be significantly improved by a treatment of this extract.
One of the most common uses of the tree, however, is as a free-range forage plant for cattle and other livestock; because the tree retains its leaves even at the height of the dry season, it is especially suited to provide a year-round food supply for free-range cattle. The high protein content in the plant makes it a favored source of food for livestock; anecdotal reports indicate that cattle often seek out the plant in preference to other types of forage plants in the area.
The phytochemicals contained in the oil can also be used to control insect infestations. The study Larvicidal and Repellent Potential of Moringa oleifera against Malarial Vector, Anopheles Stephensi Liston outlined the advantages of this extract against mosquitoes, a major threat to health in various areas of the world because of the diseases transmitted by these insects. The extract was shown to be effective at breaking the transmission vector by repelling the insects from the immediate or surrounding area and killing larva that can spread malaria and other diseases.

Current Moringa throughout the world
Over 140 organizations have developed initiatives to introduce these useful and beneficial plants into communities throughout the world to help combat malnutrition, enhance the purity of water and to produce cooking and bio-diesel oil to meet the needs of today and tomorrow.
The United Nations World Food Programme has expressed its interest in the food production potential of the tree, as have the U.S. Agency for International Development, German Development Services and the British Overseas Development Agency. Religious organizations that support the use of the Moringa plant to combat malnutrition include the Catholic Development Committee, the Church World Service, the U.S. National Council of Churches and World Vision. The Imagine Rural Development Initiative in Zambia in conjunction with the U.N. has provided seedling trays to numerous small communities within Zambia in order to help establish the plant in this habitat and to provide additional nutrition to those without easy access to clean water and adequate food.
The Trees for Life Moringa Project is intended to provide smaller communities throughout the world with these trees in order to combat malnutrition, provide fresh drinking water and offer hope for income streams in the future from bio-diesel and other applications. Many of these initiatives center on areas of rural Africa, since the climate and the conditions there are ideal for the trees and for the benefits they can bring to developing countries and small communities in the region.

The Moringa tree can be used in a wide variety of ways to improve the lives of needy individuals in tropical and semi-arid environments throughout the world. Some experts have expressed concern that the tree may act as an exotic invasive and take over certain areas and ecosystems; however, the evidence suggests that this is unlikely because of the appeal that the leaves, stems and seed pods have for indigenous animals and birds.
The seed pods typically remain close to the tree from which they have fallen unless they are deliberately collected and planted; this reduces the likelihood that these trees will spread far from their original planting location.
These versatile plants can provide a stable, reliable source of food even in drier climates; additionally, the high protein and nutritional content offers superior nutritional value for areas where other forms of protein and amino acids are difficult to obtain.
In remote communities where medical supplies and support are at a premium, the pharmaceutical qualities of the seed pods and leaves can prove invaluable in treating and providing rapid responses to developing health problems, while even technologically advanced societies can benefit from the antioxidant and anti-cancer properties of the enzymes contained in the leaves and stems. Because the leaves retain much of their nutritional value even after being dried and stored for a prolonged period, they can be preserved for significant periods of time without modern refrigeration methods.
These qualities make the Moringa tree one of the most important tools in international efforts to promote the health and well-being of less developed nations and small rural communities in India, Africa and South America and throughout the world.