Moringa, with its abundant nutritive profile, has several promising health benefits specifically for men. This post is going to articulate the different benefits moringa offers to the male reproductive system in particular.
Prostate Cancer
Moringa seeds and leaves are abundant in glucosinolates which research has shown to possess anti-cancer properties. Further studies have further demonstrated that the glucosinolates from moringa seeds may inhibit human prostate cancer cells’ growth.
A common condition that comes with ageing in men is an enlarged prostate. Research demonstrates that moringa could potentially help prevent benign prostate hyperplasia [BPH].
Moringa leaf extract upon administration to mice with BPH significantly reduced prostate weight while also lowering levels of prostate-specific antigen. Elevated levels of this protein are believed to be a sign of prostate cancer.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction [ED] occurs when there’s a problem with blood flow to the penis. This may be exacerbated due to underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
There have been several studies done in rats that shown the immense benefits moringa offers. With an abundance of polyphenols, moringa leaves have been shown to enhance blood flow by increasing nitric oxide production and decreasing blood pressure.
Further studies demonstrate that moringa extract obtained from the plant’s leaves and seeds inhibit key enzymes linked to ED that increase blood pressure and decrease nitric oxide production. Additionally, studies show that moringa is capable of improving sexual function in stressed rats.
However, no studies have been done on humans in the context of the effect of moringa on erectile dysfunction.
Infertility
As potent reservoirs of antioxidants, moringa leaves and seeds are capable of combating oxidative damage that can interfere with sperm production or damage sperm DNA.
Results from studies with moringa leaf demonstrate significantly improved semen volume, sperm count, and motility in male rabbits.
Further studies have demonstrated that moringa leaf extract with its significant antioxidant properties elevated sperm count in cases of induced undescended testicles.
Additionally, the moringa leaf extract can prevent the loss of sperm caused by excessive heat, chemotherapy, or electromagnetic rays emitted from cell phones.
However, the above studies on animals only serve to demonstrate that studies in humans are required to demonstrate the efficacy of moringa for improving male fertility.
Moringa, in particular for men, is thought to be effective as it contains the following in considerable quantities:
- Vitamin D
- Selenium
- Magnesium
- Omega 3
- ALA
These have specific functions within the human body ranging from improving and maintaining healthy testosterone levels, preventing inflammation, maintaining muscular health, and maintaining healthy heart conditions.
How to consume moringa?
In India’s Southern states, moringa is used in preparations of sambar [lentil and vegetable stew] to be had with rice. Fresh leaves are often mixed with pancake batter to make savoury pancakes.
Moringa leaves, after drying, can be ground to a fine powder, added to shakes, smoothies, dough, and batter. Additionally, one of the best ways to have moringa is in the form of tea by itself or in combination with honey, ginger, or cinnamon based on whatever suits your fancy.
If access to fresh moringa leaves or seeds is unavailable or limited, moringa capsules help give your body the nutrition boost it needs.
If under any medication to treat existing conditions, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before consuming moringa supplements.
