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The tree itself is rather slender with drooping branches that grows
to approximately 10 m in height; however, it normally is cut back
annually to one meter or less, and allowed to regrow, so that pods
and leaves remain within arms reach.
It is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree.Almost every part of
the Moringa tree can be used for food, or has some other beneficial
property. In the tropics it is used as foliage for livestock.The
immature green pods, called “drumsticks” are probably the most
valued and widely used part of the tree. The seeds are sometimes
removed from more mature pods and eaten like peas or roasted like
nuts. The flowers are edible when cooked, and are said to taste like
mushrooms.
The leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source of
beta-carotene, Vitamin C, protein, iron and potassium. The leaves
are cooked and used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as
a substitute for spinach, its leaves are commonly dried and crushed
into a powder, and used in soups and sauces.The Moringa seeds yield
38–40% edible oil (called Ben oil, from the high concentration of
behenic acid contained in the oil) that can be used in cooking,
cosmetics, and lubrication.
Medical use: Almost all parts of the tree, in particular the leaves
and root bark, have medicinal applications (e.g. as diureticum,
rubefacient, disinfectant). Root decoction used to cleanse sore and
ulcers, antiscourBlc and prescribed to delirious patients.Leaves as
a poultice, purgative and for gonorrhea.Bark used as a rebufacient.
Leaves, root and seed as analgesic, diuretic, stimulant, lactagog,
expectorant, stomachic and emmenagogue; for rheumatism. Counters
ringworm and enhances milk production.
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