Moringa
Native tree from the northwestern India that can grow adequately in subtropical and tropical areas. Used in Asia, South America, Central America, Oceania and parts of Africa as a food. All parts, including stems, flowers and roots are edible. It is a very nutritious plant with a high content of proteins, minerals (calcium, phosphorus, iron), vitamin A and C. The seed oil is also a good food high in fatty acids content (Olson 2016, Leone 2016).
Several properties are attributed in traditional medicine, yet scientifically unproven.
Depending on its origin Moringa may contain heavy metals in such amount that it could be not suitable (Limmatvapirat 2015).
In the Philippines it is used as a galactogogue and up to six local case-control studies (some mothers of premature infants) have shown an increased in milk production at the 7th day after birth, increment of infants’ weight and increased prolactin plasma level. Infants did not show side effects (Raguindin 2014).
More studies with larger samples that would include different populations and more adequate methodology are needed to clarify the role of Moringa as a galactogogue.
Best galactogogue results are to be achieved by a breastfeeding on demand along with an adequate technique in a mother who is able conserve self-confidence (ABM 2011, Mannion 2012).
Precautions when taking plant preparations:
1. Ensure that they are from a reliable source: poisoning has occurred due to confusing one plant with another with toxic properties, as well as poisoning from heavy metals extracted from the ground and food poisoning due to contamination with bacteria or fungi.
2. Do not take in large amounts; follow recommendations from professional experts in phytotherapy. "Natural" products are not always good in any quantity: plants contain active substances from which much of our traditional pharmacopoeia has been obtained and can result in poisoning or act as endocrine disruptors if taken in excessive amounts or time periods.
Very Low Risk
Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.
Low Risk
Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.
High Risk
Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.
Very High Risk
Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.
Synonyms
- Ben oil tree
- Drumstick tree
- Horseradish tree
Writings
- Guilandina moringa (Latin, botanical name)
- Hyperanthera moringa (Latin, botanical name)
- Moringa oleifera (Latin, botanical name)
- Moringa pterygosperma (Latin, botanical name)
- Moringa zeylanica (Latin, botanical name)
Drug trade names
References
- Olson ME, Sankaran RP, Fahey JW, Grusak MA, Odee D, Nouman W. Leaf Protein and Mineral Concentrations across the "Miracle Tree" Genus Moringa. PLoS One. 2016Abstract
- Leone A, Spada A, Battezzati A, Schiraldi A, Aristil J, Bertoli S. Moringa oleifera Seeds and Oil: Characteristics and Uses for Human Health. Int J Mol Sci. 2016Abstract
- Limmatvapirat C, Limmatvapirat S, Charoenteeraboon J, Wessapan C, Kumsum A, Jenwithayaamornwech S, Luangthuwapranit P. Comparison of Eleven Heavy Metals in Moringa Oleifera Lam. Products. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2015Abstract
- Raguindin PF, Dans LF, King JF. Moringa oleifera as a Galactagogue. Breastfeed Med. 2014Abstract
- Mannion C, Mansell D. Breastfeeding self-efficacy and the use of prescription medication: a pilot study. Obstet Gynecol Int. 2012Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- ABM. Comité de Protocolos de la Academia Médica de Lactancia Materna. ABM Protocolo Clínico #9: Uso de Galactogogos para Iniciar o aumentar la tasa de secreción de Leche Materna. Breastfeed Med. 2011 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- ABM. Academy Of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol Committee. ABM Clinical Protocol #9: Use of galactogogues in initiating or augmenting the rate of maternal milk secretion (First Revision January 2011). Breastfeed Med. 2011Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)