Introduction:
Drumstick is scientifically known as Moringa Oleifera Lam. It belongs to the family Moringaceae. It is a small, fast-growing, evergreen tree that grows in tropical regions. It is found in the tropical areas of India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Drumstick is also known as horseradish tree or drumstick tree (in English), Subhanjana (in Sanskrit), Haritashaaka or Akshiva (in Ayurveda).
Commonly known in various names such as Horseradish tree, Moringa, Drumstick tree, Ben Oil tree, and Benzoil tree, Moringa oleifera is the only genus in the Moringaceae family. It is deciduous, fast growing, and resistant to drought reaching a height of up to 12 m and trunk diameter of up to 45 cm upon maturity. It has an open crown of drooping branches and tripinatte leaves. The leaves are yellow-white, fragrant, and thinly veined. The fruit is a three-sided capsule, green in color, and hanging. The seeds are globular, dark boring and have whitish papery wings. It can be dispersed by wind and water. The roots are shredded and used as a condiment. The leaves are the most nutritious plant part. It is often cooked and consumed as vegetable, or dried and crushed into a powder then added into soups and sauce. The seed pods are edible when immature but become inedible and bitter as it mature. The seeds can be eaten like peas or roasted. It yields edible oil known as ben oil which is clear and odorless. The flowers can also be eaten raw or cooked. Horseradish tree, in general, is diuretic, rubefacient, and laxative. It can be used to increase milk flow and control bacterial infections. It can also be used as treatment for asthma, gout, rheumatism, inflammation, bladder and kidney stones, boils, ulcers, wounds, skin diseases, snake bites, etc. Horseradish tree is also planted as windbreaks and to prevent soil erosion. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. The bark is used for tanning. The wood yields blue dye and used only for light constructions.
Every part of the drumstick might contain essential properties for human health; hence, it may be one of the crucial nutritional herbs. For many years, the drumstick has been used as traditional medicine. According to the Ayurvedic system of medicine, drumsticks may have potential use and be helpful for various diseases due to their high nutritional value, water retention and capacity for purification.
Nutritional Value of Drumstick Fruit:
Drumstick provides large and rare varieties of vital minerals and nutrients. Pods, leaves, flowers, barks, roots and seeds of drumsticks also contain bioactive compounds.
| Nutritional Components | Value / 100 Grams |
| Energy | 27 kcal |
| Protein | 2.10 g |
| Fat | 0.20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.53 g |
| Fibre | 3.20 g |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Iron | 0.36 g |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 50 mg |
| Potassium | 461 mg |
| Sodium | 42 mg |
| Zinc | 0.45 mg |
| Copper | 0.084 mg |
| Manganese | 0.259 mg |
| Selenium | 0.7 mcg (microgram) |
| Vitamin C | 141 mg |
| Thiamine | 0.053 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.074 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.12 mg |
| Folate | 44 mg |
| Vitamin A | 4 mcg |
Uses & Benefits of Drumstick Fruit:
- Anti-Oxidant
- Anti-Diabetic
- Anti-Cancer
- Anti-Seizure
- Anti-Asthmatic
- Anti-Inflammatory
- Anti-Parasitic
- Anti-Bacterial
- Anti-Fungal
- Anti-Pyretic (Reduces Fever)
- Anti-Ulcer
- Anti-Spasmodic (Relieves Muscle Spasms)
- Anti-Allergic
- Lowers Hypertension (Blood Pressure)
- Reduces Kidney Stones
- Hepato-Protective (Prevents damage to the Liver)
- Cholesterol-Lowering
- Laxative
- Diuretic
Drumsticks might have a wide range of uses with high nutritional value. Various parts of this plant act as stimulants that might possess various activities employed to help with different diseases in the indigenous systems of medicine, particularly in South Asia. Some of the uses of drumstick are described as follows:
Drumstick for Diabetes:
The leaf extract of drumstick might show potential anti-diabetic properties that might help lower blood glucose levels. An animal study (Gupta R et al. 2012) showed that the extract of leaves of drumsticks might help reduce the progression of diabetes and may induce a reduction in serum glucose levels by increasing the production of protein and insulin hormone.
Another animal study (Ndong M et al. 2007) showed that the extract of drumstick leaves might help control glucose levels, urinary sugar and protein levels, haemoglobin and total protein in the blood. However, more studies are required to ascertain above-mentioned claims. Kindly consult a doctor as diabetes is a serious condition and should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.
Drumstick for Healing Wounds:
Various animal studies (B.S. Rathi et al. 2006, V.I. Hukkeri et al. 2006) suggest that the extracts from dried leaves of drumstick might show wound healing action in animal models over granuloma (dead space), excision and incision. It also significantly decreases scar area, and might help in increasing the wound closure and may strengthen skin breaking. However, more studies are required on humans to prove the potential uses of drumstick for wound healing.
Drumstick for Kidney:
Barks, leaves, seeds, flowers and roots of drumsticks might have diuretic activity that may be helpful for urine formation in patients with kidney dysfunction. It might also help to lower the deposition of oxalate salts (stones forming units) in the kidneys. An animal study (R.V. Karadi et al. 2008) found that the extract of drumstick root lowers the kidney retention of salts and excretion in the urine. Moreover, these extracts also reduce elevated serum uric acid and creatinine levels. This information is insufficient as these studies were done on animals. However, more studies on humans are required to back this claim. Kidney diseases are serious and must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor, so kindly consult a doctor. We recommend do not use drumsticks to self-medicate yourselves before taking medical advice.
Drumstick for Cancer:
The leaves and seed of drumstick might show potential anti-tumour activity. They contain certain compounds which might act as inhibitors and may inhibit the activity of tumour promoting molecules. In-vitro studies on human cancer cells showed the potential toxic effects of drumstick leaf extracts on cancer cells at the highest dose contributing to least viability of cancerous cells. However, much more extensive research is required to prove the potential use of drumstick for cancer. Moreover, cancer is a serious condition and must be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.
Other Uses of Drumstick:
- Barks, leaves, seeds and roots of drumstick might have anti-microbial activity against bacteria and fungi and might be prescribed by your Ayurvedic physician for specific conditions.
- When mixed with sesame oil, the gum produced by the drumstick might help with digestive problems, headaches, dysentery (infection in the stomach), fevers and asthma.
- The juice from the bark of the drumstick root might help with earache (pain inside the ear) and toothache.
Though there are studies that show the potential uses of drumsticks in various conditions, but these are insufficient and there is a need of further studies to establish the true extent of benefits of drumsticks on human health.
Be careful when consuming Moringa leaves! They contain a high concentration of saponins, which can interfere with the absorption of important minerals like zinc and magnesium. It is important to be mindful of this potential risk and consider the impact on your mineral intake.
How to Use Drumstick:
Drumstick can be used in the following ways:
- The entire plant might have potential use for muscle spasms or muscle cramps. It might also act as a cardiac and circulatory tonic and may acts as an anti-septic and a diuretic.
- The seeds of drumsticks are acidic and contain many stimulants that might be helpful for the central nervous system (CNS).
- The bark of the stem and flowers of the drumstick might be helpful to lower glucose levels in the blood.
- Flowers of drumstick might stimulate gallbladder contraction and increase the flow of bile.
- Pods of drumstick might be helpful for high fever.
- Juice of leaf of drumstick might help with hiccoughs (contractions of the diaphragm).
- Leaves of drumstick might be helpful for influenza (viral infection of the respiratory system).
- The dried root bark of drumstick might help with piles, goitre (swelling of the thyroid gland) and internal abscess (formation of pus).
You should always consult your Ayurvedic physician before consuming a drumstick for regular use. They will be the best person to prescribe you the correct form and dosage as per your health condition.
Side-Effects of Drumstick:
Over the last few years, drumstick has been significantly researched due to its natural origin and fewer side effects. It is an anti-allergic agent and might be used as a herbal remedy under the supervision of an Ayurvedic physician. However, some people might experience allergic reactions to the seedpods of the drumstick. The most common side effects are:
- Facial angioedema (swelling underneath the skin)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Irritation of skin in lower limb
Drumstick (Sahjan) is generally considered to be safe if it is consumed in small quantities. However, general precautions have to be followed to avoid complications.
- Drumstick may act as an anti-fertility agent, and may lead to abortion. It also affects the process of implantation during pregnancy. Hence, pregnant women should take precautions while consuming drumsticks. Avoid having dishes made from drumsticks. However, if any unusual symptoms occur, immediately consult your Ayurvedic physician.
- The seedpods of drumstick might cause severe allergic reactions leading to skin irritation, low blood pressure and swelling all over the body. Hence, extra precautions need to be taken by sensitive individuals to avoid such hypersensitivity reactions. Consult your Ayurvedic physician if any health-related issue appears.
Kindly do not self-medicate, alter, replace or discontinue any ongoing treatement on your own. Please ensure to consult your doctor regarding health issues.
Interactions with Other Drugs:
Drumstick contains many bioactive compounds, which interact with certain drug-metabolising enzymes resulting in alteration in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination from the body and possibly causing toxicity and failure of treatment. The leaf extract of the drumstick inhibits one of such enzymes, which is responsible for the detoxification of drugs.
Kindly consult a doctor before consuming drumsticks and make sure that it is safe for you.
Uses & Benefits of Moringa Leaves:
The drumstick leaves commonly known as moringa leaves are nutritionally very rich, leaving behind carrots, oranges and even milk in terms of nutrition value. The leaves find many uses in Indian cuisine as they are versatile and can be incorporated into the diet in many ways. Adding them to juices and using them as stir-fry vegetables are the most common ways in which they are eaten. When consumed in their natural form, the moringa leaves have no side effects.
Fresh Moringa oleifera leaves are not only packed with nutrients but also provide several health benefits? They contain about 6.7 grams of protein for muscle health, 1.7 grams of fats, 12.5 grams of carbohydrates for energy, and 0.9 grams of fiber for digestion. Adding these nutrient-rich leaves to your diet can be a great way to boost your overall nutrition and support a healthy lifestyle.
1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 and Folate. They are also rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.
One cup of moringa leaves will contain 2 grams of protein, magnesium (8 per cent of the RDA), Vitamin B6 (19 per cent of the RDA), Iron (11 per cent of the RDA), Riboflavin (11 per cent of the RDA) and Vitamin A (9 per cent of the RDA).
2. Rich in Amino Acids
Moringa leaves are rich in amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. 18 types of amino acids are found in them and each of them makes an important contribution to our wellbeing.
3. Fight Inflammation
Inflammation is how a body naturally responds to pain and injury. Moringa leaves are anti-inflammatory in nature due to the presence of isothiocyanates. They have niazimicin that is known to reign in the development of cancer cells. Inflammation is the root cause of many diseases like cancer, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many autoimmune diseases. When we suffer an injury or infection, the body suffers increased inflammation.
Basically, it is a protective mechanism against trauma but because of a wrong lifestyle and an unhealthy diet, inflammation can increase in the body. Long-term inflammation leads to chronic health issues. Eating moringa leaves helps to reduce inflammation.
4. Rich in Antioxidants
Moringa leaves have anti-oxidative properties and protect against the damaging effects of free radicals present in the environment. The damage caused by free radicals is responsible for many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart problems and Alzheimer’s.
Moringa leaves are rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene that act against free radicals.
They also have Quercetin which is an antioxidant that helps to lower blood pressure. Another antioxidant that is present in moringa leaves is Chlorogenic acid which helps to stabilize blood sugar levels post meals.
A study in women showed that taking 1.5 teaspoons of moringa leaf powder regularly for three months had shown a significant increase in blood antioxidant levels.
5. Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Sustained high blood sugar levels lead to the development of diabetes in individuals. Diabetes, in turn, can cause heart problems and organ damage in the body. To avoid this, it is good to keep the blood sugar levels in check. Moringa leaves are a perfect resource for that as they stabilize the blood sugar levels due to the presence of isothiocyanates.
6. Eyes
Based on my medical experience, I want to emphasize the potential benefits of Moringa leaves for eye health. These leaves contain high concentrations of vitamin A, which play a vital role in warding off night blindness and maintaining optimal vision. Regular consumption of Moringa oleifera leaves, either as whole leaves or in powdered form, can provide the essential vitamin A needed to support healthy eyes and potentially delay the onset of conditions like cataract. Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
7. Lowers Cholesterol
Apart from oats, flaxseeds, and almonds, moringa leaves are a dependable remedy against high cholesterol. Cholesterol is the major reason why people suffer from heart diseases and eating moringa leaves has known to show considerable improvement against high cholesterol levels. Moringa oleiferacan lower those levels and protect against the risk of heart disease. Pregnant women usually experience higher levels of cholesterol, which can in turn increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes during their term. What is gestational diabetes? It is a type of diabetes that is first detected in pregnant women who did not have diabetes before they were pregnant. Moringa leaves can certainly be included in the diet for gestational diabetes.
8. Protects the Liver
Those who have tuberculosis can benefit greatly from moringa leaves as they reduce the negative effects of anti-tubercular drugs. The leaves accelerate the repair of the liver cells. The leaves have a high concentration of polyphenols that protect against oxidative damage to the liver and may even reduce it. They increase the protein levels in the liver.
The liver is the site of blood detoxification, fat metabolism and nutrient absorption and it can function properly only if the liver enzymes are normal. Moringa leaves stabilize these liver enzymes.
9. Protects Against Arsenic Toxicity
In many parts of the world, arsenic contamination is a common problem. Arsenic has found its way in our systems through many food items, particularly rice.
Long-term exposure to this element can lead to the development of cancer and heart disease. Research on lab animals has shown that moringa leaves to combat the effects of arsenic toxicity.
10. Good for the Stomach
Moringa leaves are beneficial against digestive disorders. Those who suffer from constipation, bloating, gas, gastritis and ulcerative colitis should add Moringa leaves to their diet.
The leaves have antibiotic and antimicrobial properties which make them an ideal remedy against digestive disorders. Even the high amount of B vitamins in the leaves helps in improving digestion.
11. Improves Bone Health
Moringa leaves are rich sources of calcium and phosphorus. Both of these elements are needed for good bone health. Since moringa leaves have an anti-inflammatory nature, they help combat arthritis and may even heal bones that are damaged.
Moringa oleifera also fights against osteoporosis and keeps bone and teeth strong.
12. Anti-Septic
Moringa leaves are antiseptic and fight off many bacterial infections. They are even beneficial towards wound healing and help to heal bruises, minor cuts, and burns quickly as they reduce the clotting time.
13. Improves Lactation
Moringa leaves for pregnancy can be beneficial due to their nutrient-rich composition, potentially supporting the health of both the expectant mother and the developing baby. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, moringa leaves were used to increase lactation in nursing mothers. Since they are a rich source of protein, important vitamins, and essential nutrients, consuming moringa leaves is very good for the health of the mother and the baby.
14. Weight Management
Moringa leaves increase fat burning in the body. They slim down the person without depleting energy reserves. This keeps the person feeling buoyant and nourished. They reduce cravings for food and boost metabolism. They also lower cholesterol.
15. Skin and Hair
Due to an abundance of antioxidants and nutrients, moringa leaves improve the health and appearance of skin and hair. They add suppleness to the skin and shine to the hair. The antioxidants present in moringa leaves reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin. They have about 30 antioxidants present. Not just this, a paste of moringa leaves for hair. when applied to the scalp reduces dandruff and adds life and bounce to dull, lifeless hair. The leaves also strengthen the hair follicles. Moringa leaves for skin also has proven to be beneficial for acne-prone skin, however, more research is required. This is why moringa leaves are part of many cosmetics. They improve the skin tone and add a glow due to their purifying nature and therapeutic properties.
16. Nervous System
Many nervous disorders have been known to show positive results with the moringa leaves uses. They support brain health and work as neuro-enhancers. The high concentration of vitamins E and C combat neural degeneration and help improve brain function. Those who have a migraine or suffer from recurring headaches must eat moringa leaves regularly. These leaves also work as mood balancers as they stabilize the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline which are important for memory, mood, and for stimulus-response.
17. Detoxification
Moringa leaves are natural cleansers and help to detoxify the system. This helps to keep the body and increases immunity against various infections. They also increase the energy levels in the body.
Downsides:
- Moringa and its leaves may not be for everyone. While generally considered safe and healthy for most, there are some minor moringa side effects to watch out for. In large doses, the leaves, bark, roots, and moringa fruit may have laxative properties.
- In pregnant women, the roots, bark, and extract of Moringa may cause uterine contractions. Pregnant women should take the advice of their doctors before including Moringa leaves or products into their diets.
- Similarly, breastfeeding women should avoid Moringa leaves since it is unknown whether any of the chemicals or substances present can pass through the milk to the child.
- In some cases, Moringa leaf powder has been found to contain higher than the recommended tolerable amounts of lead, please source any extracts you use only from reputable companies.
- Lastly, it is recommended that people on blood thinners should also avoid Moringa unless you consult your doctor first. As with all things, when taken in moderation it can be safe for most people, so always use it with caution.
Over the years, I have observed that Moringa leaves are truly remarkable. They contain not only 9 essential amino acids but also 7 non-essential amino acids, making them an exceptional source of protein. This unique combination of amino acids found in Moringa leaf powder can have numerous benefits for your overall health and well-being. Adding Moringa leaves to your diet can be a great way to ensure you’re getting a wide range of essential nutrients. Dr. Smita Barode, BAMS
Interactions with Moringa:
Thyroid Medicines Particularly, Levothyroxine medicine. Since moringa may increase thyroid function, it should not be taken along with other thyroid medicines. Medicines broken down by the liver Moringa may slow down the breakdown of medicines in the liver, this may lead to subsequent issues. Diabetes Both moringa and diabetes medicines reduce the amount of glucose in the blood. If both are taken together then the blood sugar may drop too low. Blood pressure Moringa has blood pressure-lowering properties, when taken with pressure medication it may cause your blood pressure to drop. Conclusion:
Moringa leaves provide a powerful punch of nutrition and have an anti-inflammatory nature. Their antioxidative properties combined with their cellular-health protective properties make them a new ‘superfood’. They suppress the production of inflammatory enzymes and lower sugar levels. Make these a regular part of your diet to reap rich health benefits.
Research:
1. Paikra BK, Dhongade HKJ, Gidwani B. Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Moringa oleifera Lam. J Pharmacopunc. 2017 Sep 24;20(3):194-200. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5633671/pdf/2093-6966-v20-n03-194.pdf
2. US Department of Agriculture [Internet]. Drumstick pods, raw; 2019 Jan 4 [cited 2022 Jun 6]. Available from: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170483/nutrients
3. Anwar F, Latif S, Ashraf M, Gilani AH. Moringa oleifera: A food plant with multiple medicinal uses. Phytother Res. 2007 Jan 1;21(1):17-25. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/ptr.2023
4. Mishra G, Singh P, Verma R, Kumar S, Srivastav S, Jha KK, et al. Traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of Moringa oleifera plant: An overview. Pharm Lett. 2011 Jan 1;3(2):141-64. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281577396_Traditional_uses_phytochemistry_and_pharmacological_properties_of_Moringa_oleifera_plant_An_overview
5. Berglund LJ. Anaphylaxis to Moringa oleifera: First description. Australas Med J. 2018 Apr 1;11(3):176
Available from: https://amj.net.au/index.php/AMJ/article/viewFile/3344/16556. Monera TG, Wolfe AR, Maponga CC, Benet LZ, Guglielmo J. Moringa oleifera leaf extracts inhibit 6β-hydroxylation of testosterone by CYP3A4. J Infect Dev Ctries. 2017 Apr 10;2(5):379-83. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5385924/pdf/nihms854527.pdf
7. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Moringa+oleifera
8. https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-drumstick/9. https://pharmeasy.in/blog/16-health-benefits-of-moringa-leaves/
Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.