What Is Moringa Oil?
Moringa, commonly called the drumstick tree, grows in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and India. The essential oil derived from the moringa tree has been used for cultural and medicinal properties.
Moringa essential oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, behenic acid, vitamin B, vitamin C and oleic acid. Moringa oil is extracted from the seeds through solvent extraction, or cold pressed technique.
Uses of Moringa Oil
Moringa oil blends well with other essential oils like clary sage, marjoram, Melissa, lavender, orange and rosemary. Its high nutritional content has a positive influence on our bodies and minds.
Moringa oil has several applications in our daily life. It is used in the following ways:
- In aromatherapy
- As a sedative
- In skin moisturizers, lotions and creams
- In hair shampoos, conditioners and oils
- In soaps
- In machine lubricants
- In perfumes
- As a flavoring agent while cooking
- In biofuel
Benefits of Moringa Oil
Whether it is applied topically or consumed internally, moringa oil has a range of health benefits. It contains anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, antiseptic, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, exfoliating and anti-aging properties.
The main health benefits of moringa oil include:
1. Speeds up wound healing
Moringa oil contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties that speed up the process of wound healing. It stimulates blood flow to the affected area and protects the wound from getting secondary infections.
Moringa oil also prevents fungal infections of the open wound and prevents it from getting septic. This oil is commonly used to treat wounds, cuts and bruises.
2. Reduces inflammation
If you are suffering from muscular pain and joint disorders, moringa oil is a quick and natural remedy to find relief.
Moringa oil has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe inflammation in the muscles, tissues and joints. It helps treat sore muscles, joint pain, headaches and arthritis.
3. Maintains skin health
Moringa oil is known to be a natural skin moisturizer. It contains omega fatty acids and antioxidants that fight symptoms of aging and gives the skin an even tone. Moringa oil gets deeply absorbed by the skin and keeps the skin moisturized and hydrated.
4. Maintains liver health
Liver infections can arise due to accumulated toxins or hepatitis infections. Moringa oil is an excellent tonic for the liver and helps maintain liver health.
It eliminates the toxins accumulated in the liver and cures liver infections. By doing so, it restores liver function and ensures its smooth functioning.
5. Treats stomach disorders
Moringa oil has been used to treat stomach disorders since ancient times. The antioxidants and active compounds present in moringa oil help optimize digestion, maintain a balance of good bacteria and soothe inflammation in the gut.
Moringa oil also helps reduce heartburn, regurgitation and other stomach infections.
6. Lowers blood pressure
Moringa oil is rich in omega-9 fatty acids that have a positive influence on blood pressure. It lowers cholesterol levels and stimulates blood circulation.
Moringa oil reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks and atherosclerosis thereby boosting heart health. It also helps lower blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension.
7. Promotes sleep
Moringa oil is one of the best remedies to treat sleep disorders. It contains behenic acid and aromatic compounds that help relax the nerves and induce a feeling of calmness.
8. Boosts immunity
Moringa oil has a high nutritional content and is rich in vitamin E, vitamin C, omega-9 fatty acids and antioxidants. It helps fight free radicals-related damage and protects the organs from inflammation.
Vitamin C and E protects the body from infections and boosts the immune system.
Side Effects of Moringa Oil
As moringa oil contains behenic acid, it is important to exercise caution with use.
Some of the side effects include:
- Can cause irritation or inflammation in those having sensitive skin. Some of the symptoms include redness, blisters and itching. Patch testing is recommended.
- Since moringa oil can reduce blood pressure, it is advised that people suffering from hypotension should not use this oil.
- Excess use of moringa oil can cause bloating, flatulence, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, inflammation and cramping.
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are advised not to use moringa oil.
