Does Moringa Offer Health Benefits?

As seen in EveryDay Health

By Sarah Garone

Published on October 7, 2024

Medically Reviewed by Justin Laube, MD

Note: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve supplements for safety or effectiveness. Talk to a healthcare professional about whether a supplement is the right fit for your individual health, and about any potential drug interactions or safety concerns.

Sometimes the supplements that seem the newest and trendiest actually contain some of the oldest ingredients. Moringa oleifera, commonly known as moringa, is an herb from the moringa tree, nicknamed the drumstick tree or horseradish tree. Its medicinal roots stretch back to ancient time. Originating in India, it’s now used all over the world as a dietary supplement. 

Despite its history and popularity, strong clinical research on moringa is very limited. The majority of studies about moringa involve animals and do not prove benefits for humans. Below, discover the theoretical benefits of moringa for health, moringa risks to be aware of, and how to use moringa powder in smoothies, recipes, and more if your healthcare team says this supplement is right for your health goals.

Moringa Nutrition Facts

Moringa contains very small amounts of multiple vitamins and minerals, and even provides a hint of protein. One serving (2 teaspoons) of moringa leaf powder contains the following nutrition components.

[1]

• Calories: 15

• Total fat: 1 gram (g)

• Saturated fat: 0g

• Trans fat: 0 g

• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams (mg)

• Sodium: 0mg

• Total carbohydrates: 2g

• Dietary fiber: 1g

• Total sugars: 0g

• Added sugars: 0g

• Protein: 1g

• Vitamin D: 0 international units (IU)

• Vitamin C: 1.2mg, which is 2 percent of the daily value (DV)

• Calcium: 70mg, which is 6 percent of the DV

• Iron: 1.3mg, which is 8 percent of the DV

• Potassium: 60mg, which is 2 percent of the DV

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