What is moringa?
This plant from India is a food plant, that is to say, oriented towards self-consumption. Originally from the southern Himalayas, moringa is now also found in Africa, particularly in Senegal, and in a large part of Asia. The local populations use its wood for heating or to make palisades. Its leaves are rich in protein, vitamins, iron, copper, amino acids and help fight malnutrition.
Its cake, which is biodegradable, has been used for a long time to clean up water and make it drinkable. This plant is also nicknamed “nebeday” in Wolof, and “never die” in English, meaning the plant that never dies. No wonder, this tree of life is able to grow on any type of soil, and in any climatic conditions, even in times of drought. It grows very quickly and has an incredible capacity for regeneration.
Moringa oil retains water in the skin
In cosmetics, it is the seeds, coming from the pods of the fruits, which interest the brands. By pressing them, we obtain an oil rich in oleic acid. However, this acid plays a key role in skin hydration. It forms a non-occlusive film on the epidermis to retain water in the skin. These seeds also contain so-called “polar” lipids: ceramides and sterols, which are good for the epidermis because they are part of the intercellular cement. They contribute to the sealing of the cutaneous hydrolipidic film and thus help it to play its protective role.
“These superactives are used in skincare for their ability to eliminate pollution particles and prevent them from sticking to the skin”, explains Marie-Hélène Lair, doctor of pharmacy. They are found in make-up removers, exfoliants or facial cleansers. They help refine skin texture and tighten pores. The seed extract of moringa is also present in certain shampoos or conditioners, to promote the elimination of dust and impurities during washing.
In video: The tutorial for an anti-aging mask with moringa powder
Moringa is also used in cooking
the moringa is a superfood used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of over 300 diseases. It is able to strengthen the immune system, has healing and antibacterial properties and strengthens the digestive system. You can therefore consume it in the form of herbal tea, food supplement (capsules) or powder to slip into some of your culinary preparations. You can find recipe ideas here.
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