I love a plant that is so versatile, its almost like someone has made this tree up.
Moringa oleifera, Moringa Tree, (horseradish tree, drumstick tree) originates from northern India and the leaves, flowers, pods and roots are edible.
Not only is this plant completely edible its being claimed that this is The Miracle Superfood tree.
The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant, being a significant source of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium manganese, and protein. The leaves are cooked and used like spinach, and are commonly dried and crushed into a powder used in soups and sauces.
The immature seed pods are commonly used in curries. The seed pods/fruits, even when cooked remain particularly high in vitamin C and are also a good source of dietary fibre, potassium, magnesium, and manganese.
The seeds are usually removed from the mature seed pods and eaten like peas or roasted like nuts. These also contain high levels of vitamin C and moderate amounts of B vitamins and other dietary minerals
Mature seeds can yield an oil, that is currently being tested as a biofuel and the seed cake remaining after oil extraction is being tested to be used as a fertiliser or to help purify water.
All of the parts of the tree are not only edible for humans, but also can be used as a fodder or forage crop for animals. The high protein content of the leaves make it an excellent supplement to chicken feed and the seed pods can be given to your cows, goats, sheep or other large animals.
Basically the miracle tree.
It is so awesome it is now being used/tested in countries to help with malnutrition.
What makes this tree even more magnificent is that it's drought tolerant, grows in arid regions through to the tropics, will tolerate light frosts and grows quick. It can handle a good prune and has even been used a a living fence.
So why are we only just hearing about it now? Well maybe because this tree could become a problem if everyone started growing it. Its on the Australian plants to watch list. So we do not have trees for sale.
Another reason could just be the simple fact we have forgotten nature provides us with everything we need. Studies are now just starting to be popularised in western countries about the health benefits of this tree.
While we don’t have the tree in stock we do have Moringa Leaf Tea! Moringa tea is an herbal tea made by steeping the moringa leaves in pure hot water (just before boiling point). The tea is naturally caffeine, gluten and diary free and can be consumed at any time of the day. Moringa tea offers an flavour similar to that of green tea but I find it less bitter.
You get all the health benefits of the Moringa tree in tea form without the need to have a plant.
Time to try some Moringa Tea, what's stopping you from being a healthier version of you?