Green Minded: Moringa

Scientific Name: Moringa Oleifera

Moringa is widely grown in subtropical or tropical countries. It is common to Asian countries such as Philippines, Thailand and Taiwan. In China it is called "la mu" which means spicy wood, in the Philippines it is called "malunggay" and its English name is known as Horseradish Tree but it should be called as Moringa because it can be confused with Horseradish which is a different plant related to the Radish. The tree grows about 10 meters in height and it has green circular leaves growing with a pattern from each branch. The branches usually droops down so it is easy to reach for the leaves and its pods. When the tree matures, it produces pods called "drumsticks" and each drumstick contains seeds which is known for its medicinal properties.

 Moringa is rich in Calcium than milk and it contains beta-carotene which is good for the eyes. Moringa is also good for digestion. It also contains protein, zinc and potassium. It has a good source of iron which is good to prevent anemia and it also contains antioxidants.

Moringa leaves in the Philippines are used in soup dishes such as the Sinigang. In Cambodia, the drumsticks and leaves are used to make Korko, a mixed soup dish. In Bangladesh, Moringa leaves are used in curries. In Thailand, the drumsticks or pods are used in variety of dishes.