Moringa

Indications

Moringa oleifera (drumstick tree, sajna) leaf extract is a plant-based nutritional supplement. The leaves are naturally rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, protein and antioxidants. It is used to:

• Support general nutrition and energy
• Help, as part of a balanced diet, with mild nutritional shortfalls
• Support breast milk supply (traditional use)
• Provide antioxidant support

Evidence for specific health benefits in people is limited. Moringa does not replace treatment for anaemia, diabetes, high blood pressure or any other illness.

How It Works

Moringa leaves supply a mix of nutrients along with plant compounds such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid. These act as antioxidants and may modestly influence blood sugar and blood fats. The nutrients help top up the diet when intake is low.

Dosage and Administration

Take as directed on the label, usually with water after meals. Start with a lower amount and increase gradually to reduce stomach upset. Not recommended for children unless a doctor advises it.

Interactions

• Diabetes medicines (such as Insulin, Metformin): moringa may lower blood sugar further.
• Blood pressure medicines: may add to their effect.
• Levothyroxine: moringa may affect thyroid function and absorption; take them at least 4 hours apart and ask your doctor.
• Medicines broken down by the liver (for example some taken with Warfarin): moringa may alter their levels; ask your pharmacist.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy (the root and bark in particular may cause miscarriage)
• Known allergy to moringa

Side Effects

Leaf products are usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Stomach upset, wind, heartburn or loose stools
• Low blood sugar or low blood pressure in people on related medicines
• Unpleasant taste

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of very low blood sugar (sweating, shaking, confusion) that do not improve with sugar, fainting, or signs of allergy such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use moringa supplements during pregnancy. Moringa leaf is traditionally used to support breast milk and is eaten as a vegetable, but evidence for concentrated supplements in breastfeeding is limited; ask your doctor before use.

Precautions and Warnings

• Use only leaf products; avoid root and bark preparations, which may contain harmful substances.
• People with diabetes, low blood pressure or thyroid disease should check with their doctor.
• Buy from a reliable source, as poor-quality powders may be contaminated.
• If you have anaemia, tiredness or weight loss, see a doctor to find the cause.

Overdose

Large amounts may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea and dizziness. Seek medical help if much more than the label dose has been taken.

Therapeutic Class

Herbal nutritional supplement

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the pack tightly closed to protect from moisture.