Why You Should Try Moringa Powder

Made from the leaves of the Moringa oleifera plant, this herb is unique in that it retains a lot of its vitamins and minerals when dried and, therefore, is an important food source in impoverished countries. The moringa plant has been used in herbal healing practices for thousands of years and is reputed to relieve constipation, combat bacterial diseases, treat depression and alleviate arthritis.

Moringa is high in antioxidants — namely quercetin and chlorogenic acid — that fight free radicals in your body, lower blood pressure and moderate blood sugar. In one study, women who took 1½ teaspoons of moringa powder daily for three months reduced their fasting blood sugar levels by an average of 13.5 percent. Other research has shown that consistent moringa use has a similar cholesterol-reducing effect as flaxseeds, oats and almonds. Moringa is available as a supplement in either powder or capsule form.

Minty Moringa Lemonade

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• juice of 2 lemons
• 1 tbsp moringa powder
• 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves

Directions

Add all ingredients to a blender. Pulse to combine, then blend on high for 1 minute. Serve over ice.