fights inflammation Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Fighting Inflammation with Flaxseeds

The AHA! Team — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:04:34 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory, aging-associated oxylipins can be normalized by eating ground flaxseed. I previously explored the “Potent Antihypertensive Effect of Dietary Flaxseed in Hypertensive Patients” study in my video Flaxseeds for Hypertension. That was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial where researchers disguised ground flaxseed in baked goods versus flax-free placebo muffins and saw an extraordinary drop in high blood pressure. As you can imagine, the flaxseed industry was overjoyed, praising the “impressive” findings, as was I. After all, high blood pressure is “the single largest risk factor” for death in the world. High blood pressure is “the single largest risk factor” for death in the world. Yes, we give people medications, lots and lots of medications, but most people don’t take them. Nine out of ten people take less than 80 percent of their prescribed blood pressure pills. It’s not difficult to understand why. “Patients are asked to follow an inconvenient and potentially costly regimen, which will likely have a detrimental effect on health-related quality of life, to treat a mostly asymptomatic condition that commonly does not cause problems for many years.” So, they may feel worse instead of better, due to the side effects. Then, some think the answer is to give them even more drugs to counteract the effects of the first drugs, like giving men Viagra to counteract the erectile dysfunction caused by their blood pressure pills. How about using a dietary strategy instead, especially if it can be just as effective? And, indeed, the drop in blood pressure the researchers saw in the flaxseed study “was greater than the average decrease observed with the standard dose of anti-hypertensive medications.” Flaxseeds are cheaper, too, compared to even single medications, and most patients are on multiple drugs. Plus, flaxseeds have good side effects beyond their anti-hypertensive actions. Taking tablespoons of flaxseed a day is a lot of fiber for people living off of cheeseburgers and milkshakes their whole lives, and your gut bacteria may need a little time to adjust to the new bounty. So, those who start with low-fiber diets may want to take it a little slow with the flaxseeds at first. Flaxseeds have good side effects beyond their anti-hypertensive actions Not all studies have shown significant blood pressure–lowering effects, though. There have been more than a dozen trials by now, involving more than a thousand subjects. And, yes, when you put them all together, overall, there were “significant reductions in both SBP and DBP”—systolic blood pressure (the upper number) and diastolic blood pressure (the lower number)—“following supplementation with various flaxseed products.” But none was as dramatic as what the researchers had found in that six-month trial. The longer trials tended to show better results, and some of the trials just used flaxseed oil or some kind of flaxseed extract. We think this is because the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. “Each of the components of interest within flaxseed, ALA, lignans, fiber, and peptides”—the omega-3s, the cancer-fighting lignans, all the soluble fiber, and the plant proteins, for instance—“all contribute towards BP reduction.” Okay, but how? Why? What is the mechanism? Some common blood-pressure medications like Norvasc or Procardia work in part by reducing the ability of the heart to contract or by slowing down the heart. So, might it be that’s how flaxseeds work, too? But, no. In my video Benefits of Flaxseeds for Inflammation, I profile the “Dietary Flaxseed Reduces Central Aortic Blood Pressure Without Cardiac Involvement but Through Changes in Plasma Oxylipins” study. What are oxylipins? “Oxylipins are a group of fatty acid metabolites” involved in inflammation and, as a result, have been implicated in many pro-inflammatory conditions, including aging and cardiovascular disease. “The best-characterized oxylipins about cardiovascular disease are derived from the w-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid,” a long-chain omega-6 fatty acid. These are found preformed in animal products, particularly chicken and eggs, and can be made inside the body from junky oils rich in omega-6, such as cottonseed oil, as noted below and at 3:49 in my video. But, as this study is titled, “Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory oxylipins in older subjects are normalized by flaxseed consumption.” That’s how we think flaxseed consumption reduces blood pressure in patients with hypertension: by inhibiting the enzyme that makes these pro-inflammatory oxylipins. I’ll spare you from acronym overload, but eating flaxseeds inhibits the activity of the enzyme that makes these pro-inflammatory oxylipins, called leukotoxin diols, which in turn may lower blood pressure. “Identifying the biological mechanism adds confidence to the antihypertensive actions of dietary flaxseed,” but that’s not all oxylipins do. Oxylipins may also play a role in the aging process. As we get older, we’re more likely to be stricken with inflammatory conditions like arthritis. However, we may be able to “beneficially disrupt these biological changes associated with inflammation and aging” with a nutritional intervention like flaxseed. Older adults around age 50 have higher levels of this arachidonic acid–derived oxylipin compared to younger adults around age 20, as you can see in the graph below and at 4:56 in my video. “These elevated concentrations of pro-inflammatory oxylipins in the older age group…may…explain the higher levels of inflammation in older versus younger individuals.” As we get older, we’re more likely to be stricken with inflammatory conditions like arthritis. So, this “elevation of pro-inflammatory oxylipins…may predispose individuals to chronic disease conditions.” What if you took those older adults and gave them muffins, like the ones with ground flaxseed? That’s just what a group of researchers did. Four weeks later, the subjects’ levels dropped down to like 20-year-olds’ levels, as seen in the graph below and at 5:32 in my video, “demonstrating that a potential therapeutic strategy to correct the deleterious pro-inflammatory oxylipin profile is via a dietary supplementation with flaxseed.” What about flax and cancer? See the related posts below. I also have a video on diabetes: Flaxseeds vs. Diabetes. If you’re interested in weight loss, see Benefits of Flaxseed Meal for Weight Loss. What about the cyanide content of flax? I answered that in Friday Favorites: How Well Does Cooking Destroy the Cyanide in Flaxseeds and Should We Be Concerned About It?. What else can help fight inflammation? Check out in related posts below. Key Takeaways A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that, compared to placebo, dietary flaxseed consumption resulted in an extraordinary drop in high blood pressure, which is “the single largest risk factor” for death globally. Nine out of ten people take less than 80 percent of their prescribed blood pressure pills, due in part to inconvenience, cost, and potential side effects “to treat a mostly asymptomatic condition that commonly does not cause problems for many years.” The drop in blood pressure seen in the flaxseed study exceeded the average drop observed with typical doses of anti-hypertensive drugs, and flaxseeds are cheaper, too, and have other good side effects, such as increased fiber intake, which may be beneficial for those transitioning from low-fiber diets. Although not all studies showed significant blood pressure–lowering effects, the overall analysis of more than a dozen trials with more than a thousand subjects found significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with flaxseed supplementation, and longer trials tend to show better results. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and every component of interest in flaxseed—including the omega-3s, cancer-fighting lignans, soluble fiber, and plant proteins—contributes to lowering blood pressure. Norvasc, Procardia, and some other common blood-pressure drugs work by slowing down the heart or reducing its ability to contract, but that’s not how flaxseeds work. It’s thought that consumption of flaxseeds reduces blood pressure in hypertensive patients by inhibiting the enzyme that makes pro-inflammatory oxylipins, fatty acid metabolites that are involved in inflammation and, as a result, are implicated in aging, cardiovascular disease, and other pro-inflammatory conditions. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory oxylipins dropped after four weeks of flaxseed consumption, suggesting that supplementing with flaxseed is “a potential therapeutic strategy to correct the deleterious pro-inflammatory oxylipin profile.” To read the original article click here.

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Pumpkin Spice MCT Oil Powder! 3 Ways to Enjoy Today

AHA Publisher — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 08:00:45 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Sometimes, you just can’t get enough of a good thing. Take Pumpkin Spice. Simply, pumpkin spice is a mix of nourishing, delicious spices that provide a taste and aroma perfect for Autumn, Winter, and the Holidays. Next, take MCT Oil Powder. This incredibly healthy fat and brain-boosting nutrient should be an everyday part of an energizing, healthy diet. Put them together, and get more good things: Pumpkin Spice MCT Oil Powder! This decadent Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder flavor is delicious and incredibly healthy. Here’s how to use it (3 ways!), and why you should. Keto Zone® Pumpkin Spice MCT Oil Powder – 3 Ways HOLIDAY PUMPKIN SPICE BREAD Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour 1 scoop Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Pumpkin Spice) 3 tablespoons cup granulated keto-friendly sweetener 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup organic canned pumpkin puree 3 large eggs, organic Instructions: Prepare a loaf pan (9″×5″) by greasing with butter or lining with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. In a medium bowl, mix all ingredients until completely smooth. Pour mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Bake on the oven’s center rack for 60 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool COMPLETELY. Then, separate the bread from the pan by scraping along the sides with a knife. Pop the loaf out onto a serving plate. To store, cover loosely overnight on the countertop, or store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Makes 12 servings. Enjoy! Nutrition info (per slice): 118 calories, 10 grams fat, 2 grams saturated fat, 2.5 grams net carbohydrates, (6 grams carbohydrates, 3.5 grams fiber), 4 grams protein Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients: 8 ounces organic cream cheese 4 ounces organic butter (grass-fed) 1 1/2 – 2 cups keto powdered sweetener 1 scoop Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Pumpkin Spice) Instructions: Set the cream cheese and butter on counter and allow to warm to room temperature. Using a hand mixer, beat all ingredients until smooth. Add a bit of water or almond milk, as needed, to get to desired consistency. Adjust sweetener to preference. Enjoy on pies, breads, desserts, or in coffee! Nutrition info (per 2 tablespoons): 90 calories, 10 grams fat, 7 grams saturated fat, 1 grams net carbohydrates, (1 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams fiber), 1 grams protein Pumpkin Spice Mocha Ingredients: 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, organic if possible 1 scoop Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Pumpkin Spice) 1 scoop Keto Zone® Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder (French Vanilla) 8 ounces strong coffee 1/2 cup almond milk, heated Instructions: Stovetop: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, mix 1/2 cup water, pumpkin puree, Keto Zone® MCT Oil Powder (Pumpkin Spice), and Keto Zone® Hydrolyzed Collagen Powder. Heat and stir until melted and combined to form a syrup, about 1-2 minutes. Microwave: Combine all ingredients in a large microwavable mug. Stir well. Heat on high in 30-second intervals, and stirring in between, until melted and combined to form a syrup. Typically, it will take 1.5-2 minutes, or 3-4 intervals of heating and stirring. Add coffee and heated milk to syrup. Stir very well or place in a blender to combine and froth. Of note: when blending hot liquids in a blender, make sure to allow the steam to vent while blending by opening lid slightly. Blend with care at low speed. Make sure to not allow the hot liquid to explode out of the blender. Nutrition Info: 192 calories, 16 grams fat, 8 grams net carbs (14 grams carbs, 6 grams sugars – naturally occurring, 6 grams fiber), 28 grams protein 7 Proven Benefits of MCT Oil Powder 1. SUPPORTS HEALTHY HEART AND CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION Medium-chain triglycerides in MCT oil have been shown to improve cholesterol profiles by decreasing LDL cholesterol, decreasing the number of LDL particles, and increasing HDL cholesterol (1, 2). There are three primary ways MCT oil improves cardiovascular health. First, MCTs improve cholesterol profiles by decreasing LDL (bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). In turn, this improves the total cholesterol ratio. In one recent study, 17 overweight women were given MCTs for 27 days. When tested, their LDL cholesterol decreased, HDL increased, cholesterol ratio improved, and plasma glutathione increased (a powerful natural antioxidant). Researchers stated that their cardiovascular risk profile was improved (3). In another 2018 study, 96 adults consumed butter, coconut oil, or olive oil. When tested, LDL remained unchanged with coconut oil and olive oil. HDL significantly increased with coconut oil. This change improved the cholesterol profile in the coconut oil group (4). 2. FIGHTS INFLAMMATORY RESPONSES Inflammation is at the center of most chronic diseases, and is linked to heart disease, diabetes, cognitive degeneration, and more. MCTs can reduce inflammation in the body. In 2014, 30 adults with high cholesterol and inflammation consumed MCTs for 30 days. When retested, scientists found significant reductions in LDL, increases in HDL, and reductions in C-reactive protein (a marker for inflammation) (5). 3. SUPPORTS BRAIN HEALTH, ENERGY AND FOCUS When you’re in ketosis, and you consume MCT oil, your body is able to produce increased ketones. Currently, scientists are studying the effects of ketones, like those from MCTs, in preserving healthy brains and inhibiting degradation from aging (6). Additionally, researchers have found that ketones are usable fuel for the brain in those with Alzheimer’s disease, similar to young healthy brains. (7). In Alzheimer’s disease, there’s an impairment in the use of glucose by the brain. Utilizing ketones in the brain rather than glucose may result in memory improvements and brain function (8). Here’s what researchers found: Ketones are associated with many benefits, including reduced brain degradation from aging and improved brain function (9). 4. PROMOTES HEALTHY WEIGHTS Amazingly, MCTs can promote healthy weights and BMIs. This is great news since even moderate weight loss can improve cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugars, and inflammation. What’s more, since MCTs and fats, in general, improve satiety you also won’t feel too hungry even while trying to lose weight (10, 11). 5. ENCOURAGES OPTIMAL BLOOD SUGARS MCTs can improve blood sugars and decrease insulin output, thereby improving health and fat metabolism (12). In fact, MCTs can help reduce the risk of diabetes by: Decreasing insulin resistance Providing an alternate energy source to carbohydrates Preserving beta-cell health (decline in these cells contributes to diabetes) Promoting weight loss In one recent study, scientists concluded that MCT oils provided benefit to beta cells in both mice and humans. One key to combating diabetes is improving the health of these cells (13). Additionally, a 2016 animal study showed that MCTs improved both insulin resistance and inflammation. (14). While more human studies are needed, MCT oil powder is a promising supplement to help improve diabetes outcomes. 6. SUPPORTS HEALTHY DIGESTION Amazingly, MCTs can fight unhealthy yeasts while supporting an increase in healthy bacteria and absorption in the digestive tract (15). Unhealthy yeasts plague many people and cause a myriad of digestive and health issues. Digestive diseases can affect the body in many ways, including: Poor absorption, stunted growth, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and low energy Direct digestive symptoms such as constipation, bloated, and cramping Declining digestive tissues with the risk of ulcers, hemorrhoids, decreased healthy bacteria growth, fungus and yeast overgrowth, and diverticular diseases MCT oil powder eases digestion, since bile isn’t needed to digest MCTs. In fact, MCTs go from the intestines directly to the liver, and the body quickly uses them as energy or storage. MCTs can nourish those who can’t digest nutrients well. In one 2018 study, MCT supplementation decreased intestinal candida overgrowth in preterm infants. The candida decreased during supplementation, then increased again once it was stopped (16). MCTs can improve healthy bacteria levels, fat-soluble vitamin absorption, and energy metabolism (17). 7. PROMOTES YOUTHFUL ENERGY AND ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE If you’re looking for a fuel that increases energy, MCTs are one such fuel. Once delivered to the liver from the intestines, MCTs increase energy output in the mitochondria, which are the energy producers in cells (18). In addition, athletes typically look for ways to decrease lactate levels. When recreational athletes consumed MCTs, they experienced lower lactate levels during moderate and intense workouts than they did with other fats. This may lead to improved endurance and performance (19). Other researchers found that MCTs reduce high-temperature exercise performance issues and improve overall performance (20). Bottom Line It’s never a bad time to add more pumpkin spice to your life. Enjoy our delicious Keto Zone® Pumpkin Spice MCT Oil Powder with these 3 recipes this year. And, let us know your favorite ways to enjoy it! To read the original article click here.

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Moringa Benefits Hormonal Balance, Digestion, Mood & More

AHA Publisher — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:00:30 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever heard of moringa before? Although this plant was initially discovered for its beneficial properties thousands of years ago, only recently has moringa (sometimes called the Ben oil tree) become known as one of the most impressive herbal supplements to hit the holistic health market. In fact, in 2008 the National Institute of Health called moringa (moringa oleifera) the “plant of the year,” acknowledging that “perhaps like no other single species, this plant has the potential to help reverse multiple major environmental problems and provide for many unmet human needs.” What are the health benefits of moringa? To date, over 1,300 studies, articles and reports have focused on moringa benefits, finding that it contains compounds that are especially important in parts of the world where disease outbreak and nutritional deficiencies are common. Research shows that just about every part of the moringa plant can be utilized in some way, whether it’s to make a potent antioxidant tea or produce an oily substance that lubricates and nourishes the skin. What Is Moringa? Moringa (moringa oleifera) is known by over 100 names in different languages around the world. This easy-to-grow tropical plant species, native to the Himalayan mountains and parts of India and Africa, comes packed with over 90 protective compounds, including isothiocyanates, flavonoidsand phenolic acids. There are actually believed to be at least a dozen different varieties of the moringa tree, which belong to the plant family Moringaceae. These are fast-growing, tall, leafy plants that produce flowers or pods. Of all the species, one (moringa oleifera) is by far the most utilized. Prior to the plant’s effects being demonstrated in scientific studies, it was used extensively in traditional medicine practices like Ayurveda medicine for over 4,000 years. Moringa has gained a reputation for fighting inflammation and combating various effects of malnutrition and aging, earning the nickname “the miracle plant.” Benefits of moringa include helping treat a wide variety of conditions, such as: inflammation-related diseases cancer diabetes anemia low energy and fatigue arthritis and other joint pain, such as rheumatism allergies and asthma constipation, stomach pains and and diarrhea epilepsy stomach and intestinal ulcers or spasms chronic headaches heart problems, including high blood pressure kidney stones fluid retention thyroid disorders low sex drive bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic infections Nutrition Facts Moringa is a unique plant because almost all parts of it — leaves, seeds, flowers/pods, stem and roots — can be used as a source for nutrition and other medicinal properties. The most popular medicinal use of this plant involves drying and grinding down moringa leaves, where most of the antioxidants are found. Studies have revealed that moringa powder is loaded with phytochemicals, protein, calcium, beta-carotene, vitamin C and potassium. Because it provides a concentrated source of vitamin A, it’s given to thousands of children in third-world countries every year suffering from life-threatening vitamin A deficiency, which is linked to impaired immune function. Consuming it can also improve intake of trace minerals, amino acids and phenolic compounds. The plant contains a rare and unique combination of disease-preventing phytonutrients, including flavonoids, glucosides, glucosinolates, zeatin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol. Aside from the valuable leaves, the pods of the moringa tree also contain seeds that hold a healing type of oil. Oil from moringa seeds can be used to cook with or put directly onto the surface of the body. According to Kuli Kuli, an organization that harvests moringa plants in Africa, gram for gram, the plant contains: two times the amount of protein of yogurt four times the amount of vitamin A as carrots three times the amount of potassium as bananas four times the amount of calcium as cow’s’ milk seven times the amount of vitamin C as oranges Top 7 Moringa Benefits 1. Provides Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds Moringa oleifera seems to have similar abilities as certain conventional drugs, only it doesn’t pose the same level of risk for experiencing side effects. According to a report published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, it contains a mix of essential amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), carotenoid phytonutrients (the same kinds found in plants like carrots and tomatoes), antioxidants, such as quercetin, and natural antibacterial compounds that work in the same way as many anti-inflammatory drugs. Studies have shown that these compounds are protective of the heart, natural circulatory stimulants, and possess antitumor, anti-epileptic, anti-ulcer, antispasmodic, antihypertensive and antidiabetic effects. Moringa powder is high in several powerful anti-aging compounds that lower the effects of free radicals, oxidative stress and inflammation. These are associated with a reduced risk for chronic diseases, such as stomach, lung or colon cancer; diabetes; hypertension; and age-related eye disorders. 2. Balances Hormones and Slows the Effects of Aging A 2014 study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology tested the effects of moringa (sometimes also called “drumstick”) along with amaranth leaves (Amaranthus tricolor) on levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in menopausal adult women. Researchers wanted to investigate if these superfoods could help slow the effects of aging by balancing hormones naturally. Levels of antioxidant status, including serum retinol, serum ascorbic acid, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde, were analyzed before and after supplementation, along with fasting blood glucose and haemoglobin levels. Results showed that supplementing with moringa and amaranth caused significant increases in antioxidant status along with significant decreases in markers of oxidative stress. Better fasting blood glucose control and positive increases in haemoglobin were also found. Can moringa help you sexually? There’s some evidence it may boost libido and work like a natural birth control compound, according to some animal studies. Although it’s historically been used as a natural aphrodisiac, it actually seems to help reduce rates of conception. That said, it can boost the immune system during pregnancy and also increase breast milk production/lactation, according to some studies. 3. Helps Improve Digestive Health Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, moringa has been used in ancient systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda, to prevent or treat stomach ulcers, liver disease, kidney damage, fungal or yeast infections (such as candida), digestive complaints, and infections. A common use of moringa oil is helping to boost liver function, therefore detoxifying the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metal toxins. It might also be capable of helping fight kidney stones, urinary tract infections, constipation, fluid retention/edema and diarrhea. 4. Balances Blood Sugar Levels, Helping Fight Diabetes Moringa contains a type of acid called chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to help control blood sugar levels and allow cells to take up or release glucose (sugar) as needed. This gives it natural antidiabetic and hormone-balancing properties. Aside from chloregnic acid, compounds called isothiocyanates that are present in moringa leaf have also been tied to natural protection against diabetes. A study that appeared in the International Journal of Food Science Technology found that this plant had positive effects on blood sugar control and insulin levels in patients with diabetes when eaten as part of a high-carbohydrate meal. Separate studies have demonstrated that antidiabetic activities of low doses of moringa seed powder (50–100 milligrams per kilogram body weight) help increase antioxidant status and enzyme production within the liver, pancreas and kidneys of rats and prevent damage compared to control groups. High levels of immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG), fasting blood sugar and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) — three markers seen in diabetics — were also found to decrease as a result of moringa given to rats with diabetes. Can moringa help you lose weight? Because it can improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance, it may offer some advantages to those following a weight loss plan. 5. Protects and Nourishes the Skin Several popular uses of moringa oil are to help retain skin’s moisture, speed up wound healing, and soothe dry or burnt skin. Moringa contains natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral compounds that protect the skin from various forms of infections. Some of the common ways it is used on the skin include reducing athlete’s foot, eliminating odors, reducing inflammation associated with acne breakouts, treating pockets of infection or abscesses, getting rid of dandruff, fighting gum disease (gingivitis), and helping heal bites, burns, viral warts and wounds. The oil is applied directly to the skin as a drying, astringent agent used to kill bacteria, but at the same time, when used regularly it’s known to act like a lubricant and hydrate the skin by restoring its natural moisture barrier. It’s a common ingredient used in food manufacturing and perfumes because it prevents spoilage by killing bacteria — plus it has a pleasant smell and reduces odors. 6. Helps Stabilize Your Mood and Protects Brain Health As a high-protein food and a rich source of the amino acid tryptophan, moringa supports neurotransmitter functions, including those that produce the “feel good” hormone serotonin. It’s also rich in antioxidants and compounds that may improve thyroid health, which makes it beneficial for maintaining high energy levels plus fighting fatigue, depression, low libido, moods swings and insomnia. 7. Good for the Environment (Water and Topsoil) A noteworthy characteristic of the moringa plant is that it’s capable of growing in depleted or dry soils where many other types of beneficial plants or trees cannot survive. This is precisely why certain undernourished populations living in third-world countries, such as Somalia or India, have benefited from it during times of famine. Aside from providing important nutrients, it is used to help restore fertile soil, aid in forest restoration efforts and filter water. One interesting use of the seeds is for water purification. Combining moringa with water helps impurities cling to the seeds so they can be removed, leaving behind better quality water that’s lower in toxins. Salt also seems to bind to moringa, which is beneficial for producing fresh-tasting water. Some studies have shown that 0.2 grams of ground moringa seed can turnone liter of contaminated water into safe drinking water. This is due to the coagulating actions of certain ingredients in the plant that absorb bacteria. Risks and Side Effects What are the side effects of taking moringa? Because it’s completely natural and free from chemical additives (when you buy a pure, high-quality brand), when taken by mouth or used on the skin it seems to be very well-tolerated. Moringa side effects are still possible and may include: lower blood pressure slowed heart rate uterine contractions cell mutations when high amounts of seeds are consumed interference with fertility Leaves, fruit, oil and seeds from the moringa tree have been consumed safely for centuries, but today there are various forms of supplements or extracts sold, so it’s important to buy the purest kind you can find and to read ingredient labels carefully. During pregnancy or when breastfeeding, it’s best to avoid moringa extract, root or high doses of supplements since not enough research has been done to show it’s safe. It’s possible that chemicals within the plant’s root, bark and flowers can lead to contractions of the uterus, which can cause complications during pregnancy. How to Use It As you can probably tell by now, this plant can be used in many different ways in order to utilize all the available moringa benefits. Because of the long transport time needed to ship moringa from parts of Africa or Asia where it’s grown, in the U.S. it’s usually sold in powder or capsule form, which prolongs its shelf life. An interesting characteristic of moringa? It’s said to taste like a mix between horseradish and asparagus. It might not have the most appealing flavor, but it’s a supplement with one of the the richest supplies of vital nutrients in the world. Dosage Recommendations There’s no recommended or required dosage of moringa at this time since it’s only an herbal supplement and not an essential nutrient. That said, there’s some evidence that the optimum dose for humans has been calculated to be 29 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. It’s recommended that you start by taking half a teaspoon of dried moringa orally per day for three to five days, increasing your intake slowly over two weeks as you get acclimated to its effects. Most people choose to take moringa every several days but...

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