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Moringa

Botanical Name(s): Moringa Oleifera
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Subclass: Asteridae
Order: Capparales
Family: Moringaceae
Genus: Moringa Adans
Species: Moringa oleifera Lam.
Popular Name(s): Horse Radish Tree, Drumstick Tree, Sahijan
Parts Used: Roots, Seeds and Leaves
Habitat: Found through out India

Description
Moringa tree is mainly grown in semi-arid, tropical and sub-tropical areas. While the best type of soil for this tree is dry and sandy, it can also tolerate poor soil such as that found in coastal areas. The tree is native to the Himalayan foothills in Northwestern India. Moringa is widely cultivated in areas such as Africa, Central and South America, Sri Lanka, India, Mexico, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is believed to be one of the most useful trees in the world. Its leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source of beta-carotene, Vitamin C, protein, iron and potassium. The leaves are cooked and used as spinach. The tree has a medium height, extending to 15-20 feet. The fruits are 6-8 inch long, brown in color and have six visible veins. The leaves are 1-2 feet long and leaflets are in pairs of 6 to 9, with a width of 1/4 inches. The seeds of Moringa Oleifera are triangular in shape and astringent in taste.

Uses & Benefits of Moringa