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Uses of Moringa Leaves
Uses of Moringa Leaves. According to the Trees for Life organization, the beneficial uses of the multi-functional moringa plant dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Known by such names as the drumstick tree or horseradish tree for its thick roots, the plant is a staple in home landscapes in its native regions where every part of the plant...
According to the Trees for Life organization, the beneficial uses of the multi-functional moringa plant dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Known by such names as the drumstick tree or horseradish tree for its thick roots, the plant is a staple in home landscapes in its native regions where every part of the plant has a purpose, including its leaves.
Plant Description
The horseradish tree (Moringa oleifera Lam.) is native to the lower Himalayan regions and grows in tropical areas including Africa. It is a deciduous perennial and a member of the moringaceae family that grows up to 32 feet tall. Its branches grow in a downward manner with 24-inch-long light green branches containing 1-inch-long leaflets. Creamy white fragrant flowers with yellow stamens bloom in the months or April and May.
Food Uses
According to the Self Nutrition Data, the moringa leaf tips are high in several vitamins, containing 23 percent of the daily value recommended for vitamin A and 18 percent of vitamin C. They are a good source of protein, calcium and iron. The leaves are treated as vegetables and eaten raw in salads, spices in main course dishes and puree and soup ingredients.
Practical Uses
In the native regions where these plants grow, every part of the plant has a use, even in practical applications. According to Purdue University's Horticulture Department, pulverizing moringa leaves makes a cleanser that cleans a variety of household items from eating utensils to the walls. The natural oil in the seeds produces a natural lubrication.
Medicinal Uses
The plant contains a number of natural properties that are medicinally beneficial such as antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties. According to Pub Med with the U.S. National Library of Medicine, all parts of the horseradish tree, including the leaves, enhance cardiac and circulatory systems. The leaves are popular folk medicine remedies for headaches, and the treatment of wounds and abrasions.
Growth Requirements
Gardeners can take advantage of the benefits of this fast growing tree in landscapes. The moringa plant grows well in tropical to subtropical climates in USDA plant hardiness zones 9b to 12. Grow the plant by seed or root cuttings where they will receive a lot of sunlight. The tree is drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering.
