Moringa Oil?
Moringa oil is obtained by extracting the oil in the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree. Virtually all parts of the moringa tree can be used. Its seeds, roots, bark, flowers, and leaves are used internationally for nutritional, industrial, or medicinal purposes.
Because of its many nutritional values this tree is also globally known as the Miracle Tree or the Tree of Life. It is also called the drumstick tree because of the shape of its seed pods.
Moringa seeds are ideal for their high oil content and nutritional values. These include monounsaturated fats, protein, sterols, and tocopherols. Moringa oil is produced through many ways including solvent extraction and cold-pressing.
It is used as an essential oil and a cooking oil. There are many uses for the oil including as an ingredient in hair and skin products.
It has been well known in many cultures, dating back to biblical times, as a medicinal cure and as a topical ingredient in cosmetics. In the modern world we live in, Moringa oil is manufactured for both the commercial industry and for personal use.
- Cooking oil. Moringa oil has a high protein and oleic acid value, and is also a monounsaturated, healthy fat. It is ideal for using when cooking and does not go rancid.
- Topical cleanser and moisturizer. Moringa oil’s oleic acid makes it beneficial when using it as a topical cleansing agent, or as a moisturizer for skin and hair.
- Cholesterol management. Edible moringa oil contains sterols, which have been shown to lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol.
- Antioxidant. Although more research is needed, there are various reports of the antioxidant and antidiabetic benefits in the oil.
- Anti-inflammatory. Moringa oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, when ingested or used topically.
Moringa oil uses
Moringa oil can be used as:
An ingredient in skin and hair care products, for example: as soap, liquid cleanser, hydrating toner, massage oil, shampoo, and hair conditioner. Moringa (often called the drumstick tree or miracle tree) is highly nutritious, especially its leaves, which are most commonly consumed fresh, dried, or powdered. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile (values approximate, per 100 g of fresh raw leaves unless noted):
Cooking oil in food preparation.
Essential oil on skin and hair. This must always be diluted, just like any essential oil with a carrier oil before using.
Moringa Leaves (Raw, per 100 g)
- Calories: ~64 kcal
- Protein: 9.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 8.3 g
- Fat: 1.4 g
- Fiber: 2.0 g
Key Micronutrients:
- Vitamin A (as beta-carotene): 378 µg (42% DV)
- Vitamin C: 51.7 mg (86% DV)
- Vitamin E: 2.3 mg (15% DV)
- Vitamin K: ~563 µg (469% DV)
- Calcium: 185 mg (19% DV)
- Iron: 4 mg (22% DV)
- Magnesium: 147 mg (37% DV)
- Potassium: 337 mg (10% DV)
Moringa Powder (Dried Leaves, per 100 g)
Drying concentrates nutrients, so powders are much richer:
- Protein: ~27 g
- Vitamin C: ~17 mg (lower due to degradation when dried)
- Calcium: 2000+ mg
- Iron: 28 mg
- Potassium: 1300 mg
Moringa Pods (Drumsticks, per 100 g raw)
Common in cooking (like in curries):
- Calories: ~37 kcal
- Protein: 2.1 g
- Carbs: 8.5 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Vitamin C: ~141 mg (235% DV)
✅ Benefits:
- High in protein for a plant source
- Rich in antioxidants (vitamin C, beta-carotene, quercetin)
- Excellent source of calcium, iron, and potassium
- Supports immune health, energy, and bone strength
⚠️ Note: Excess consumption (especially of extracts or supplements) may interact with medications (like blood pressure or diabetes drug).