The benefits of Moringa and mental health
Moringa oleifera, often called the "miracle tree" is one of nature's most incredible gifts to mankind. It's dense nutritional value is matched by virtually no other plant, and the list of health benefits continues to rise as more research is put into discovering how truly amazing moringa can be.
One area of research that is yielding results is the connection between moringa and anxiety. Moringa users have long suggested moringa can effectively manage anxiety and depression, but only over the last decade have researchers truly begun to discover the connection.
Anxiety - A Serious Problem Often Left Untreated
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues facing the world today. Approximately one fifth of the adult population faces regular anxiety issues, although only 30% of those adults receive treatment.
When untreated, anxiety can cause insomnia, headaches, irritability, breathing problems, high blood pressure, and extreme fatigue. This is why seeking treatment for anxiety - even for temporary anxiety related to a life event is very important.
CAN MORINGA HELP ANXIETY?
Moringa oleífera, the "miracle tree", is often used to help stabilize blood sugar levels, for its' dense nutritional value, and its' anti-inflammatory effects. However, much research is being put into the potential anti-anxiety effects of moringa.
Studies related to moringa & anxiety have only begun, but the early results have been promising.
In a preliminary study conducted on rats, researchers found moringa had a significant anxiolytic effect on rats through multiple mechanisms. Researchers believe that the ethanolic extract found in moringa leaves could lift serotonin, dopamine, and GABA levels in the brain.
These three neurotransmitters have been directed linked to anxiety related disorders and there is concrete evidence that low dopamine levels are significantly correlated with anxiety.
Another study found similar results and is expanding to human studies to determine the effectiveness of moringa to help curb anxiety.
What Does All of This Mean for You?
The preliminary evidence IS indeed very positive that moringa may help with anxiety, but it isn't yet a home run.
More studies are currently in progress and although there's plenty of testimonials from moringa users that would suggest it can help with anxiety - it still isn't concrete evidence.
Moringa can be an incredibly beneficial herbal supplement but you should not stop treatment for anxiety related issues by any means. Moringa has plenty of benefits and anxiety relief may be one of them - but we cannot be certain yet.
Until then, use moringa for its' plentiful health benefits and incredible nutritional value and stick to your normal anxiety treatment recommended by your doctor.
