Today we are looking at Moringa stenopetala. This species of Moringa originally comes from Ethiopia. Today it is found throughout the tropics. The available reports of personal experiences suggest that Ethiopian Moringa may have even more benefits than its now very popular relative, the Indian moringa tree. However, Moringa stenopetala has so far been very little researched.
If an Ethiopian moringa tree is allowed to grow in an open space, it will quickly develop into a magnificent tree with a thick trunk. The seeds also look quite different from those of the Indian moringa tree.
In recent years, Moringa has become increasingly popular in the West. What is less well known is that small, non-governmental organizations have already been using Moringa in development aid for decades. Why is Moringa so suitable for this?
There are numerous reasons. Moringa has many benefits. The three most important are: a) its traditionally attributed medicinal properties, b) its use as a food, and c) its ability to purify polluted water.
In the United States alone, dozens of patents have been registered in which Moringa plays a role.
Almost the entire tree is edible. The roots of young trees can be used like horseradish, hence the nickname ‘horseradish tree’. The pods, seeds, and flowers are also edible. When harvested raw, the pods and seeds can be cooked like vegetables. The flowers can be used to make tea and, traditionally, even wound ointment. – And, of course: the leaves!
What fascinates me most are the seeds. If you crush the seeds and put them in water, the substances they contain bind the dirt. And lo and behold: The water becomes drinkable again—an effect that is now also being scientifically investigated. Moringa is mentioned in the Bible:
“He cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a tree. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.” (Exodus, Chapter 15, Verses 22–25)
The oil from the seeds is also interesting. Known as behen oil, moringa oil was already used in ancient Egypt. Together with labdanum—our old acquaintance: rockrose!