Discover the Power of Moringa (Sojina Leaf) — Nature’s Miracle Tree!

By Dr. M. Faisal Hossain, Assistant Director of Research (PharmD) and Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Appalachian College of Pharmacy, USA

Overview

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as Sojina or Sajna leaf in Bengali, has been treasured for centuries as a natural powerhouse of nutrition and medicine. From its leaves and pods (drumsticks) to its seeds, moringa is used widely in Bangladesh and around the world for its health-promoting properties.

I personally enjoy both sojina leaves and drumsticks—they’ve always been a staple in my kitchen, and now, I’m glad to see the science catching up to what our ancestors always knew. But what does modern science say about this “miracle tree”? Let’s dig into the latest clinical research to understand how moringa powder may benefit your health.

What Does the Science Say?

✔️ Supports Insulin Secretion

A controlled clinical trial in healthy adults found that a 4-gram dose of moringa leaf powder significantly increased insulin secretion by 74%, without affecting blood glucose levels (Anthanont et al., 2016). This suggests moringa might help improve insulin function, which is crucial for blood sugar regulation.

✔️ Helps Control Blood Sugar in Prediabetes

In a 12-week double-blind randomized controlled trial, adults with prediabetes taking 2.4 g/day of moringa leaf powder experienced reductions in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c compared to placebo (Gómez-Martínez et al., 2021). This points to moringa’s potential as a natural antihyperglycemic agent to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.

✔️ Boosts Exercise Performance and Antioxidant Defenses

A recent pilot study in young males showed that 30 days of moringa leaf extract supplementation improved treadmill endurance and push-up strength. It also enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced oxidative stress markers after exercise (Dong et al., 2024).

✔️ Enhances Breast Milk Carotenoids

A 3-month randomized trial in breastfeeding Kenyan mothers showed that daily consumption of 20 g moringa leaf powder increased alpha-carotene concentrations in breast milk, especially in mothers with vitamin A insufficiency (Attia et al., 2024). This may help improve infant nutrition in populations at risk of vitamin A deficiency.

✔️ Increases CD4 Cell Counts in HIV Patients

A double-blind RCT in Nigeria with 200 HIV patients on ART showed that moringa supplementation significantly increased CD4 cell counts by over 10 times compared to placebo after 6 months, indicating enhanced immune function (Gambo et al., 2021).

✔️ Exhibits Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects in Animal Studies

Laboratory animal studies show that methanolic extracts of moringa leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids, providing pain relief, reduced inflammation, and free radical scavenging activity comparable to standard drugs (Adedapo et al., 2015). While promising, human trials are needed to confirm these benefits.

How to Use Moringa Powder (Sojina Leaf)

In Bengali households, moringa leaves and drumsticks are commonly cooked in curries, dals, and soups. The dried powder form allows convenient supplementation—capsules or teas are popular worldwide.
Daily doses in clinical studies typically range from 1 to 4 grams of leaf powder, but it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially if you have health conditions or are on medication.

Is It Safe?

Human studies used 4–10 g/day without serious side effects. However:

It may lower blood sugar or blood pressure, so monitor closely if you’re on related medications.
Not enough research exists on its safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding, so consult a healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts

Moringa powder, or Sojina leaf powder, is more than just a nutritious leafy green—it’s supported by solid science showing benefits for blood sugar regulation, immune support, antioxidant defense, and nutritional enhancement in vulnerable populations. While more large-scale human trials are needed, current evidence paints a promising picture of moringa as a natural supplement with diverse health benefits.

References

Anthanont, P., Lumlerdkij, N., Akarasereenont, P., Vannasaeng, S., & Sriwijitkamol, A. (2016). Moringa Oleifera leaf increases insulin secretion after single dose administration: A preliminary study in healthy subjects. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand, 99(3), 308–313.
Gómez-Martínez, S., Díaz-Prieto, L. E., Castro, I. V., Jurado, C., Iturmendi, N., Martín-Ridaura, M. C., Calle, N., Dueñas, M., Picón, M. J., Marcos, A., & Nova, E. (2021). Moringa oleifera leaf supplementation as a glycemic control strategy in subjects with prediabetes. Nutrients, 14(1), 57.
Dong, W., Bian, X., Wan, M., Jin, L., Wang, Y., Jing, C., Yao, Z., Gao, W., Xi, Z., & Guo, C. (2024). Moringa oleifera leaf extracts improve exercise performance in young male adults: A pilot study. Phytomedicine, 131, 155751.
Attia, S. L., Odhiambo, S. A., Mogaka, J. N., Ondondo, R., Schadler, A., McQuerry, K., Fuchs, G. J., Williams, J. E., McGuire, M. K., Waterman, C., Schulze, K., & Owuor, P. M. (2024). Impact of maternal Moringa oleifera leaf supplementation on milk and serum vitamin A and carotenoid concentrations in a cohort of breastfeeding Kenyan women and their infants. Nutrients, 16(19), 3425.
Gambo, A., Moodley, I., Babashani, M., Babalola, T. K., & Gqaleni, N. (2021). A double-blind, randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf powder supplementation on the immune status and anthropometric parameters of adult HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy in a resource-limited setting. PLOS ONE, 16(12), e0261935.
Adedapo, A. A., Falayi, O. O., & Oyagbemi, A. A. (2015). Evaluation of the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, phytochemical and toxicological properties of the methanolic leaf extract of commercially processed Moringa oleifera in some laboratory animals. Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, 26(5), 491–499.

Acknowledgment: Blog prepared with assistance from ChatGPT by OpenAI.

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

This concise review (Natural Remedies Blog) is for informational purposes only and has not been peer-reviewed. It is based on a limited number of clinical trials and published research articles. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any natural remedy or supplement. These products are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription drugs or food. Some may have strong biological effects, cause side effects, or interact with medications and existing health conditions. Be aware that certain products marketed as “natural” or “dietary supplements” may contain hidden or unapproved ingredients, which can pose serious health risks. Use caution and rely on trusted sources and professional guidance when making health decisions.