Moringa Peregrina / الشوع
COMMON NAME
LOCAL NAME
Background
- Moringa peregrina is distributed in North East equatorial Africa, throughout Arabia and as far north as Syria. Usually grows in mountain slopes up to 800 m; very common in the UAE at low to intermediate elevations, especially in Ruus Al Jibal
- Moringa is an important food source in some parts of the world. It can be grown cheaply and easily, and retains much of its nutritional value when dried. As an antioxidant, it seems to help protect cells from damage. Moringa might also help decrease inflammation and reduce pain.
Part(s) Used
Seeds and oil obtained from seed.
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
Moringa is used for many purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. It has been used as/for:
Headache |
Fever |
Abdominal Pain |
Constipation |
Burns |
Back and muscle pains |
Asthma |
Breast-feeding |
How Much Do We Know?
Very little research has been done in people on the health effects of Moringa Peregrina products
What Do We Know About Safety?
Moringa root and root bark are possibly not safe to use as it contains toxic substances.
Using Moringa by
Mouth
- The leaves, fruits and seeds as food: likely to be safe.
- The leaves and seeds as supplement for short term: possibly safe
- Moringa leaves can be used for up to 6 months.
- Moringa seed can be used for up to 3 weeks.
Topical
There isn't enough information to know if it is safe to use on skin
Special Precautions & Warnings
Pregnancy
- It’s possibly safe, when the leaf is used by mouth during the second trimester for short-term.
- It’s possibly unsafe, when the root, bark, or flower are used by mouth.
- There isn't enough information to use the seed during pregnancy
Breast-feeding
Possibly safe to use the leaves while breastfeeding for up to 4 months.
Children
Possibly safe if the leaf is used by mouth for short-term.
Keep in Mind
- Do not hesitate to speak with your health care provider before starting to use any supplements.
- Discuss potential benefits and risks, especially if you are suffering from any health problems.