The moringa is a tall erect tree, its a fast grower, with small white flowers and round leaves. It produces long ribbed pods, which looks like drumsticks, and hence the name. its seeds looks like wings. Almost every part of the drumstick tree has so much therapeutic or nutritional value, it could be considered an all- natural pharmacy and multi-vitamin.
The leaves contain high amounts of vitamin A(4X more thn carrots), Vitamin C(7X more than oranges) protein(2X that of milk and= to eggs) Calcium(4X more than milk) Iron(3X the iron of spinach) and potassium(3X the amount in bananas) which is essential for the functioning of the brain and nerves.
India's ancient tradition of Ayurveda says the leaves prevent 300 diseases. They are antibacterial are a natural antibiotic, very much like penicilin, and a wonderful cleanser for respiratory diseases. It is a great tonic for everyone, especially infants and growing children. The leaves can be dried in the shade and then grind and placed in a sealed dark container.
Drumstick pods have the same nutritional value as the leaves. Four or five sticks made into soup provide enough calcium for anyone suffering from diseases like osteoporosis. A soup of the leaves, flowers and sticks helps prevent infections of the throat, chest and skin. The high content of vitamin A in both leaves and pods can save the eyesight of children.
