Originally a native to the Himalayan foothills, Moringa is well known as a native herb of northern India. Though this plant has been a part of Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years Moringa is only starting to gain recognition for its wide range of health benefits. Still rising in popularity the plant is now becoming more mainstream. As it turns out this plant contains a powerful abundance of antioxidants. Considered to be highly nutritious as the plant also offers many vitamins and minerals. Moreover it is revered for its anti-inflammatory antibiotic and adaptogenic qualities.
Moringa contains a full spectrum of nutrients so great that it can be considered an all natural multivitamin. Moringa is high in calcium and protein so it can benefit the strength of bones and development of muscles. It is also high in the valuable nutrient Vitamin C. Moringa also contains Vitamin A and potassium levels that rival carrots and bananas respectively. With its antibacterial qualities Moringa can fend off skin infections while providing relief from surface flesh wounds and reduce bleeding.
Moringa is available in various forms. As a tea it is easy to consume and can be combined with another tea blend like green or black tea. It is also available as a powder which can be a great addition to a smoothie or protein shake. Moringa can be found in capsules as well for easy consumption.
Try growing Moringa at home for a fresh supply of the plant. The plant is fast growing and easy to get started. The leaves can be added to smoothies, juiced along with other deep leafy greens, or even dried and used in tea. Grow indoors using large pots between 20-50 gallons. This size pot is needed because Moringa needs more room to grow its long deep roots.
Materials List:
- Moringa Seed
- Plastic storage containers
- Paper Towels
- Preferred plant nutrients
- Well draining soil
- 4 inch seed starter pots
- 20-50 gallon planter pots
- Start by germinating the Moringa seed.
- Soak in water overnight ina clean glass jar.
- Remove seed from water and wrap soaked seed in a wet paper towel and store in a plastic container with a clear lid. Store in a dark place.
- Without opening the lid, check the seeds daily for a week until they start to sprout.
- When they have sprouted, plant the seed in a 4 inch starter pot with the roots down and the green sprout up.
- Allow to grow for one month with light regular watering.
- Transplant into a larger Pot
- Fill larger pot with a well draining high nutrient soil
- Dig a 4 inch deep hole in the potted soil
- Remove young Moringa plant from starter pot and place in larger pot’s hole
- Select a space for pot with access to lots of sunlight
- Moringa potted plant care
- Water regularly every day and feel free to add growth supporting nutrients to water
- Moringa thrives in tropical conditions (70 degrees and up) so consider investing in a space heater during the cooler months.
- Prune Moringa Plant as it grows
- Moringa left on its own can grow over 10 feet tall and spindly. Regular pruning will ensure the limbs will grow full and bushy leaves.
- Cut the top 2 feet off of the tree when it reaches 5-6 feet in height.
*While Moringa does best in warmer climates the plant will naturally wilt its leaves in the fall and winter and regrow spring and summer. Provide regular light watering during the cooler months. As long as the plant does not reach a deep freeze it will stay alive and regrow each season.
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