The natural world is full of great natural treatments and moringa, pronounced muh-ring-ah, is just one of them. Native to India but grown across Asia and parts of Africa, this medium-sized tree thrives in hot climates and has been used for centuries.
Every part of the tree, from its bark to its leaves, has a purpose. From medicine to food, there’s no part of a moringa tree that can’t be used.
New to moringa? Let’s find out more.
What is moringa?
The moringa tree, also known as the drumstick or miracle tree, boasts many qualities, including leaves that are high in iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants.1 Nutrients aside, the beauty world also swears by moringa oil as a hair care product, which is what we’ll be exploring here.
What is moringa used for?
- Moringa is now often found in supplement form, as it contains vitamins A, C and E as well as calcium and protein.2
- In addition to supplements, moringa is gaining popularity as a powder that can be stirred into smoothies and juices.
- You may have come across beauty products containing moringa without knowing. Its rich nutrient-content makes it ideal for skincare.
- There are different types of moringa oil, including moringa for your hair and protein-rich moringa oil for cooking.
What are the moringa benefits for hair?
Is it true that moringa oil can benefit most hair types?
According to beauticians and medical researchers, moringa oil may be the haircare product you’re looking for, due to its high vitamin content. In most cases, moringa oil is used to protect the hair against dryness from heat or the sun while also hydrating your scalp.
Some researchers even believe the antioxidant and antifungal properties of moringa oil may protect against dandruff.3 Other sources claim the zinc in moringa oil may help to encourage healthy hair growth, although further proof is needed.4
Be aware, some moringa oils go through a manufacturing process to make them more suitable for cooking or other uses like lubricating machinery. You won’t want to use these types on your hair, so always read up on the products before using.
Remember: If you buy moringa as an essential oil, it’s crucial to mix this with a carrier like almond oil, so it doesn’t irritate your scalp.
Should anyone avoid moringa oil?
Despite the need for more research, some medical experts say anyone with a thyroid problem, low blood pressure or hypoglycemia should be cautious when taking moringa oil. That’s because moringa may exacerbate these issues or react with certain medications aimed at lowering blood pressure or blood sugar levels.5
Pregnant mothers and those breastfeeding are also advised to be careful or consult a GP if planning to use moringa oil.6
For the most part, however, moringa is safe and toxin-free, but we recommend you consult a healthcare professional when in doubt and when using a new product for the first time.
The outlook on moringa oil
Whether you’re using moringa oil for cooking or as part of your hair care routine, there are plenty of benefits to explore. Ready to dive in? Check out our collection of oils online for moringa oil products from leading brands.
Last updated: 18 September 2020
Sources
1 https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/health-benefits-moringa
2 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453016300362
3 https://www.imedpub.com/articles/determination-of-antioxidant-of-moringa-oleifera-seed-oil-and-its-use-in-the-production-of-a-body-cream.pdf
4 https://www.verbproducts.com/blogs/verb-word/benefits-of-moringa-oil-for-your-hair
5 https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1242/moringa
6 https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1242/moringa
