Moringa Olifera is a relatively new herb in the U.S., but it has a long history of use in India and Arabia for its nutritional and health benefits. This plant has many common names, often called the “miracle tree,” the “drumstick tree,” since the pods resemble drumsticks, or the “horseradish tree” due to the root tasting similar to horseradish. The fruit, seeds, flowers, leaves and root of the tree are all used as a food or spice and offer medicinal value.
Andrea Baldwin
Moringa
Nutritionally, Moringa is a powerhouse containing vitamins A, niacin (B3), thiamin (B1), and riboflavin (B2) as well as minerals such as zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, phosphorous and magnesium, amino acids (protein) and an abundance of antioxidants. Its leaves are often characterized as having more Vitamin A (beta carotene) than carrots, more calcium than milk, more potassium than bananas and more iron than spinach, as well as a high protein content of up to 17 percent. Because of this, the leaves of the plant are considered a nutritionally complex whole food and could offer easily assimilated concentrated nutrition for some horses.
The roots and flowers are considered to have a pungent, bitter flavor, and a hot temperature. However, the leaves and pods are more warm than hot and often considered tonics. Due to its heating nature, use it sparingly and cautiously if you suspect your horse might have stomach irritation. Also avoid this herb if your horse has a bleeding disorder.
Moringa also has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antibacterial, antispasmodic and antifungal properties. Oil from the seeds is often used topically as a pain reliever for rheumatic joints and for healing wounds. For the many suggested uses for this plant, check with your equine herbalist or holistic veterinarian for guidance on using it with your own horse.
Andrea Baldwin is a Clinical Herbalist with training in various herbal traditions, including Western, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic and Native American. As a lifelong horse advocate she believes that herbs and other holistic modalities, when used thoughtfully, offer the gentlest and most powerful way to bring balance to your horse. www.equibotanical.com