Marvellous Moringa: This health supplement is 2018's superfood superstar

Moringa is 2018's superfood superstar — *Moringa is 2018’s superfood superstar*

The term ‘superfood’ seems to be one that the media is only too happy to bandy around. Time after time, medical professionals or “food scientists” are cited as endorsing one miraculous morsel or another to help transform your physical / mental capabilities.

While dietary supplements have been A Thing since the first pot-bellied prehistoric chap caught sight of his paunch in a patch of still water, the modern-day take on superfoods dates back to the ’80s in the US, a land where credulity had long been king. Back then, a sudden yearning for low-fat foodstuffs swept the country in the wake of an obesity epidemic. As a result, sales of low-fat yoghurts, artificial sweeteners and low-calorie pre-made meals soared.

The moringa plant is native to India and regions of Africa — *Moringa is native to the Indian subcontinent and regions of Africa*

More recently, it was the turn of green tea, with its cancer-countering catechin antioxidants, to enjoy the limelight. Then kale emerged as a cabbage-derived cure-all. After that, it was turmeric’s turn to be the Spice that was Nice to your Body.

Now, a new vegetable of ineffable virtue has arisen to take their place – marvellous, multi-beneficial moringa. Though largely unknown to wellness-minded Westerners, its restorative qualities have long been understood by various Indian and African apothecaries where moringa grows.

The seeds, leaves and bark of the moringa plant all boast health benefits — *The seeds, leaves and bark of the moringa plant have all proven to boast health benefits*

A more conventional endorsement comes courtesy of a study published by Phytotherapy Research, which testified to the healing qualities of the moringa tree’s roots, leaves, seeds, flowers and bark. Such derivatives can be used in the treatment of a wide variety of ailments, inflammation, sundry stomach disorders, arthritis, diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions.

It is also packed with nutrients, boasting twice the per-serving protein of spinach, as well as three times as much iron. Gram for gram, it also contains four times as much calcium as milk and seven times more Vitamin C than oranges. It is also replete with Vitamins A and B, magnesium and sundry antioxidants.

*Countless food companies are looking to take advantage of the sudden popularity of moringa*

Perhaps its biggest plus, though, is that unlike many health foods, it doesn’t taste bad. In fact, properly prepared, moringa is decidedly moreish, thanks to its sweet seeds and nutty-flavoured leaves. Indeed, it is said to be so delicious that food companies the world over are on the cusp of utilising it in nutrition bars, juices and even crisps.

While clearly 2018’s Superfood Success Story, will moringa prove just another fleeting fad? It’s hard to say, but if you want to stay around long enough to find out, putting moringa on your daily meal plan probably won’t hurt.

Text: Tenzing Thondup