Drumstick (Moringa) – Benefits, Nutrition & Uses

Drumstick or moringa is a plant possessing surprising properties. Drumstick is also known as drumstick vegetable, moringa vegetable, ben oil tree, miracle tree, Sahjan, Murungai, Murungai Keerai, Nuggekayi, and moringa drumstick. The flowers, seeds, moringa oleifera leaves, and even the bark of the drumstick offer amazing health benefits. Each part of the drumstick is edible and packed with vitamins A, C, and K along with iron, calcium, and magnesium. The versatile plant is also rich in antioxidants. The vitamin C content of drumsticks boosts immunity and calcium strengthens bones.

So, in this blog, we are going to explore all about Moringa or Drumstick, its nutritional content, calcium content, benefits, and uses so stay tuned.

Anciently, the leaves and the pods of drumsticks have been used for medicinal purposes. If we talk bout the nutritional value of this wonderful plant, 100 grams of fresh moringa pods can fulfill 157% of your vitamin C requirement. Some studies show that moringa helps manage inflammation and regulate blood sugar levels.

Drumsticks are a significant addition to the diet due to their diverse range of benefits, offering various health benefits. Whether you are creating a healthy diet plan, looking for a delightful way to boost your diet, need to manage your blood sugar levels, or want to ensure strong bones in your growing child, drumsticks need a place on your plate.

Moringa oleifera or the Drumstick vegetable holds a cultural and culinary significance, especially in India and even some other parts of the world as it is highly nutritious and holds remedial properties. The vegetable is used in many different dishes because of its flavor,   medicinal properties, and health benefits.

Let's explore the properties and health benefits of drumsticks in more detail. Let's get started.

The scientific name of the drumstick is Moringa oleifera and it is commonly used in cooking curries, soups, and powders. Moringa is quite a large tree natively belonging to North India. It has been used in medicines and traditional herbal remedies for several years.

The drumstick or moringa vegetable has edible leaves, flowers, and pods. The fast-growing tree comprises long pendulous pods, tripinnate leaves with delicate leaflets, and bisexual, yellowish-white color fragrant flowers. Almost every part of the moringa tree including pods, leaves, and bark is edible or used in traditional medicine.

Pods: Pods are the most identifiable part of the drumstick plant as these are long and hanging. New leaves are green and as they get mature they turn into brown leaves. As you peel the pods you get a seed surrounded by a fleshy layer, both the seed and flesh are eatable with a grassy and botanic flavor.

Leaves: The leaves are formed of smaller leaflets organized in a feather-like design. Leaves are usually dark green and leaflets are teardrop shaped. Young or new leaves can be cooked or even eaten raw.

Flowers: The yellowish-white color scented flowers with finely veined petals. Flowers grow in the form of clusters. These are bisexual flowers.

Tree: The drumstick tree is fast growing and reaches a height of 10-12 meters. Also known as a horseradish tree, has a corky bark and floppy branches.

Moringa leaves are packed with many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds. The dried moringa leaves are used as dietary supplements in capsule or powder form in Western countries. One cup of fresh moringa leaves contains:

• Calories: 13
• Protein: 2 gram
• Vitamin A: 9% of the recommended daily allowance
• Riboflavin (B2): 11% of the recommended daily allowance
• Vitamin B6: 19% of recommended daily allowance
• Vitamin C: 12% of the recommended daily allowance
• Iron: 11% of the recommended daily allowance
• Magnesium: 8% of the recommended daily allowance

Pods generally contain fewer vitamins and minerals than moringa leaves however these are extremely rich in vitamin C.

• Vitamins: Drumstick leaves are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B6.
• Minerals: Moringa is a good source of minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
• Antioxidants: Moringa contains antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicle damage.

Drumstick is a native Indian plant however it is also cultivated in some regions of South America, Africa, and Asia. Check out the drumsticks (moringa) nutritional value per 100 grams as mentioned in the table below, as it highlights potential health benefits.

Drumstick leaves are an excellent source of essential nutrients. These are packed with vitamins A, B complex, and C and minerals (iron, magnesium, and calcium. On the other hand, drumstick pods be they fresh or dried are rich sources of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C, and potassium.

Vitamins: Vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B6, C and folate

Minerals: Calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium and selenium

Other nutrients: Protein, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, and healthy fatty acids.

Vitamins: Vitamin A, B-complex, and C.

Minerals: Calcium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus.

Other Nutrients: Protein, dietary fiber, and carbohydrates.

Moringa or drumsticks offer a range of health benefits due to their various medicinal properties, rich nutrient profile, and significant antioxidant activity. Moringa is also called a miracle tree due to its ability to improve overall well-being. These are a rich source of iron, calcium, minerals, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients required for bone strength.

Antioxidants protect your body against free radical damage. High levels of free radicals are associated with oxidative stress that causes chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Moringa leaves are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolics, and ascorbic acid.

Drumsticks are believed to aid immune function as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients strengthen the immune system, aid immune system activity, and defend against diseases and infections.

Moringa supports digestive function and promotes healthy digestion. Drumsticks are an excellent source of fiber that supports healthy digestion and prevents constipation. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of moringa can help ease the symptoms of digestive conditions.

High blood sugar is associated with serious health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Studies found that moringa helps lower blood sugar aiding better management of diabetes. It may be because of various plant compounds including chlorogenic acid, kaempferol, isothiocyanate, and quercetin.

Drumstick leaves are a significant addition to the diet, especially for patients with liver diseases, fatty liver, and tuberculosis. The antioxidant properties of drumsticks protect the lungs against damage from free radicals, prevent oxidative stress, and aid detoxification.

Drumsticks are packed with calcium, phosphorus, iron, minerals, and all essential nutrients required for strong bones. Eating drumsticks regularly can help reinstate bone density, and prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.

Drumsticks are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C that fight against infections and improve immune function.

Asthma is caused due to inflammation in the lungs. Moringa possesses anti-inflammatory properties that ease airways and bronchodilators presenting asthma attacks.

Moringa or drumstick tree is believed to have several medical properties thus numerous scientific studies have been discovering the potential medical benefits of this magical tree. Various scientific studies discovered a range of potential benefits including antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects.  Moreover, the research found that drumsticks may possess wound healing, anti-microbial, and even anti-cancer properties among others.

The bioactive compounds found in moringa such as isothiocyanates and glucosinolates have shown strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action in clinical trials. Studies show that moringa can reduce inflammation, a major cause of the development of obesity, diabetes, and cancer. Drumsticks have been found to improve insulin signaling and glucose tolerance in animal studies.

Many studies signified that the leaves of drumstick trees can help manage blood glucose levels and can help cure diabetes. Moringa possesses the ability to restrict pro-inflammatory mediators and boost antioxidant levels that are associated with antidiabetic effects.

Research shows that drumstick leaves possess hepatoprotective activity and can prevent liver damage. Some studies demonstrate the anticancer potential and some inhibition of cancer cell growth. Moreover, moringa is also explored for its antimicrobial, wound healing, and many other medicinal properties.

Drumsticks have been used in traditional medicines in various cultures. It has been used to treat various ailments such as infections, skin problems, and digestive issues. Several scientific studies have demonstrated a broad range of medicinal effects of moringa making it a highlight for research and development in functional foods.

Moringa leaves come with many health benefits as they are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. These are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals and are also known to have anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.

• The anti-inflammatory effects help ease pain and swelling and can be helpful for arthritis patients.
• Drumstick fresh leaves contain a high iron content that helps in anemia.
• Due to its rich nutrient profile, moringa leaves are known to promote lactation in breastfeeding mothers.
• These are the powerhouse of antioxidants that protect from free radical damage, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of developing chronic illnesses.
• Drumstick leaves regulate blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and aid diabetes management.
• Moringa leaves improve eye health and nourish the skin due to their high vitamin and mineral content.
• Nutritious leaves aid digestion and help ease digestive problems such as stomach ulcers and pain.

Drumstick or moringa is a nutrient-rich vegetable offering many health benefits such as increased energy levels, better heart health, and improved sperm quality. The miracle tree also promotes bone health, muscle growth, and digestive well-being.

• Enhance the sperm count, and sperm quality and improve fertility.
• The antioxidants found in moringa defend sperm from oxidative stress contributing to sperm health.
• The rich iron and protein content of drumsticks reduce fatigue and boost energy levels.
• Drumsticks contain magnesium and potassium which help blood pressure management.
• Antioxidants in moringa reduce bad cholesterol in the body diminishing the risk of heart disease while benefiting healthy skin.
• The amino acids and high-quality plant-based protein of drumsticks are vital for muscle growth that supports fitness goals.
• The vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and other beneficial compounds found in drumsticks boost testosterone in men and also support prostate health.

Moringa or drumstick is a nutritious vegetable widely consumed in many parts of India to make sambhar, curry, and pulusu. Even the leaves are used in cooking such as to cook dal and stir-fried food items. Drumsticks can be used in cooking in a variety of ways such as Drumstick soup, curry etc.

• To make sambhar you can simply add various vegetables including moringa and some lentils with spices and tamarind.
• If you are cooking dal, pick any lentil and add some chopped drumstick for additional flavor and to increase the nutritional value of the dal.
• You can simply stir-fry cut chopped drumsticks with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other spices and eat it with rotis or rice whatever you prefer.
• If you are making biryani, just add some chopped moringa to the biryani for some additional flavor.
• Omelet lovers can take advantage of this delicious vegetable by adding some drumsticks to your omelet making it more healthy and proteinicious.
• Drumstick soup is a healthier way to consume the whole nutrition of this vegetable with some added vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Generally, moringa is considered safe when consumed in moderation. However pregnant women and patients taking certain medications should take necessary precautions as suggested by their healthcare provider. Too much consumption may cause digestive issues and certain plant compounds may interact with certain medications so you should be careful.

Some people who are allergic to certain plant compounds may experience an allergic reaction such as swelling or skin irritation. Moringa lowers blood pressure thus people with low blood pressure need to consume it with caution after consulting their healthcare provider.

Moringa vegetable is considered a superfood due to their remarkably high nutrient content such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B complex, iron, calcium, and other minerals. Other superfoods such as kale and spirulina offer significant health benefits, drumstick or moringa presents a complete nutrient profile making it a potent superfood for diverse health requirements.

If you compare moringa with other superfoods for instance kale, both are excellently packed with vitamins and minerals however moringa comprises higher nutrient levels. Coming to spirulina and wheatgrass, moringa contains superior nutrient diversity and bioavailable forms.

What makes drumstick superior to other superfoods is its rich nutrient density, bioavailability, versatility, and overall wellness benefits as its remarkable nutritional profile supports several health aspects.

Moringa drumstick presents considerable health benefits such as strengthening immune function, managing blood sugar levels, improving bone health, reduce inflammation. The delicious vegetable is known for its versatile properties. It is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and K, iron, magnesium, calcium, and other minerals. Drumstick moringa also possesses antiseptic, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory effects. Due to its wide-ranging properties, it is also known as a miracle tree.

You can consume it boiled, stir-fried, steamed, or roasted. Moringa leaves can be consumed fresh, dried, and cooked and flowers can be added to stews, soups, and curries.  Even the moringa seeds can be roasted and ground to make a powder that can be consumed.

***Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphics, and images, is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice about your condition(s).