Examines Moringa the Miracle Tree - an Efficient Cancer Cell Killer?

Moringa under the microscope
Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is often referred to as a "miracle tree" and "superfood". It is awarded the tree various health-promoting effects. The cancer information service of the German Cancer Research Center has now investigated the question of what is really proven, and whether the plant is helping to treat cancer?

New superfood Moringa. Image: Luis Echeverri Urrea - fotolia

The cancer information service experts show that Moringa leaves and seeds also have antibacterial activity. So it can serve as a substitute for soaps. In addition, water can be cleaned and disinfected using moraine seed water. The vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of Moringa oleifera is used as the basis of cosmetics and in Ayurvedic medicine and used as an edible oil.

Moringa is often referred to as "superfood". There is no evidence for that. In fact, Moringa contains many antioxidants, minerals, saponins, flavonols and the plant zeatin cytokine. In cell culture, these antioxidants inhibited cancer cells, triggering apoptosis. In animal studies, Moringa showed a hepatoprotective effect in rats with liver cancer. So far, however, there is a lack of studies with humans. Therefore, Moringa has so far no significance as a drug in cancer. High levels of potassium, calcium, seven vitamins and protein have been proven so far.

Importantly, ingredients from Moringa inhibit the cytochrome P450 enzyme of the 3A4-type liver. Therefore, interactions with cancer medication may occur, e.g. when taking immunomodulators or in certain anti-hormonal therapies. Even more about the tree of life here. Source: Cancer Information Service, German Cancer Research Center