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March 28, 2021 • CULTURE

Moringa - The Powerhouse Plant

The Moringa (Moringa oleifera) tree is native to the Himalayan foothills in India and Bangladesh, and is grown throughout India, Egypt, Africa, Pakistan, the West Indies, Philippines, Jamaica, Cuba, as well as Florida and Hawaii. In the Caribbean, it is treated like a sacred plant on account of its healing properties, and is often used to make natural juices and tonics. In fact, the Moringa tree is sometimes referred to as the Moringa miracle tree. To put it into context, this tree contains more vitamin C than an orange, more vitamin A than a carrot, more calcium than milk, and more potassium than a banana.

What may surprise some is that Moringa's benefits transcend internal uses. Moringa also packs a punch for external use and has been gaining currency in the skin and beauty world for its antioxidant and nutrient properties. Soap made from Moringa, for example, can give you impressive results for a number of skin issues.  To make Moringa soap, moringa leaves are typically harvested and crushed into a powder, which can then be added to other ingredients to create soap. Moringa soap cleanses and detoxifies the skin; it can help to balance skin color and tone; it has powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that protect the skin from the environment and fights premature aging of the skin; and it holds lots of vitamins that keep the skin soft and glowing. Let’s break down some of these key benefits:

1. Anti-oxidant properties: Moringa is packed with about 45 types of antioxidants that help flush out toxins from the skin, leaving it cleaner and cleaner. These powerful attributes of Moringa leaves can be harnessed in Moringa soap. Remember, the skin is the largest organ on your body. Just like your internal organs, it can greatly benefit from flushing out toxins.

2. Non-toxic and natural: Unlike many of the mystery ingredients in skin care today, Moringa is natural and non-toxic. It has been known to reduce inflammation of the skin caused by skin disorders such as eczema, or even day-to-day stress.

3. Vitamin rich: Moringa is also loaded with skin-loving vitamins and nutrients. It has over 90 essential nutrients and large amounts of Vitamin A and C, both of which are good for skin brightening. It also contains vitamins b and d, which are both known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.

4. Fights aging: Moringa’s high vitamin content and antioxidants help it to block skin from being dried out. This helps skin to retain flexibility and moisture, making sure lines and wrinkles stay away.

5. Moisturizing, smoothing: Moringa is all natural, so you can say goodbye to that soapy residue that’s often associated with synthetic soaps. The relaxing and antioxidant properties of Moringa means that using Moringa soap will help your skin feel and look smoother, while the vitamins will give it a healthy glow.