Over the years, I’ve been genuinely excited by the growing body of research around moringa, and even more delighted by the feedback from customers who’ve shared the real-life benefits they’ve experienced while using it. It always makes for an interesting conversation when science and lived experience meet.

A number of customers have reported improvements in blood pressure, sometimes to the point where their healthcare practitioner needed to review their medication. Others have noticed positive changes in cholesterol levels and blood sugar balance. Whilst everyone’s body is different, these recurring themes certainly align with what the research suggests.

Moringa has been cultivated for centuries across Northern India and parts of Africa, and it has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, one of the world’s oldest traditional healing systems. In Ayurveda, moringa has traditionally been used to support cardiovascular health, including the management of high blood pressure.

Recent research suggests moringa may help lower blood pressure by improving vascular function and reducing oxidative stress¹. One key compound responsible for this effect is quercetin, a powerful antioxidant found in moringa leaves. Quercetin helps neutralise free radicals, reducing oxidative stress on the heart and blood vessels, which may in turn support more stable blood pressure levels ². Moringa is also naturally rich in potassium, a mineral well known for its role in maintaining healthy blood pressure.

When it comes to blood sugar balance, moringa really stands out. The leaves contain chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanates, compounds believed to help regulate how our cells absorb and release glucose particularly after meals. Research suggests this may positively influence fasting blood sugar, insulin levels and overall glucose control, making moringa a supportive addition for those wanting to maintain balanced energy throughout the day (and avoid those dreaded afternoon slumps) ³.

Cholesterol support is another area where moringa has shown promise. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that rats fed moringa leaf extract experienced a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels even when consuming a high-fat diet ⁴. One reason for this effect is beta-sitosterol, a plant compound naturally present in moringa. Structurally similar to cholesterol, beta-sitosterol competes with cholesterol for absorption in the intestines, helping to reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, supporting healthier blood vessels and helping to reduce plaque build-up in arteries.

It’s no wonder moringa is often described as one of the most nutrient-dense plants on the planet. The leaves are rich in protein, all essential amino acids, with over 90 nutrients and 46 antioxidants. That makes it an excellent daily supplement not just for addressing specific health concerns, but for overall nourishment and prevention. After all, prevention really is better than cure.

And perhaps one of my favourite pieces of feedback? People often say they simply feel better when taking moringa…more energy, more vitality, and an overall sense of wellbeing. And really, most of us could use a bit more get-up-and-go.

As always, if you’re taking medication or managing a health condition, it’s important to speak with your healthcare professional before adding any supplement.

For further information on moringa or any other health issue call to see the team at Go Vita Your Health Shop at 5 North St Batemans Bay or phone on 44729737. Don’t miss our weekly segment on 2EC radio, where Marianne and Go Vita’s Nutritionist Sofia talk about health and wellness with Kimmi Saker every Wednesday after 12.30pm.

References

1.       Corrêa, R. C. G., & de Almeida, A. A. (2024). Moringa oleifera and blood pressure: Evidence and potential mechanisms. Nutrients, 17(7), 1258.

2.       Alia, M., et al. (2024). Recent Perspectives on the Pharmacological, Nutraceutical, Functional and Therapeutic Properties of Moringa oleifera.

3.       Novak, S., & Tsou, M. (2020). Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis pointing to the antidiabetic effect of polyphenol-rich plant extracts including Moringa oleifera. Medicines, 44. 

4.       Ghasi, S., Nwobodo, E., & Ofili, J. O. (2000). Hypocholesterolemic effects of crude extract of leaf of Moringa oleifera Lam in high-fat diet fed rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 69(1), 21–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0378-8741(99)00106-3