Around the world Moringa Oleifera is known by many names, including “the Miracle Tree” and “l’Arbre de Vie” (tree of life). Throughout the country of Senegal, about 36 languages are spoken. However, when someone mentions the little green leafed plant, “nebeday,” a twist on the English “Never Die,” the word is almost universally known. Why? Because “nebeday never dies.”
Moringa is one of the world’s most useful trees, highly valued by ancient cultures, spanning from the Indians, to the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians; as early as 2000 BC for its medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians treasured moringa oil, using it as protection for their skin from the ravages of desert weather. Some sources even claim that the ancient Egyptians placed jars of mooring oil in their tombs for use in the afterlife.
Practically every part of the plant is utilised for its health benefits. Of interest from a skin care perspective are the leaves and seeds, from which a powdered extract and cold pressed oil are derived, respectively.
Moringa Skin and Hair Care Benefits:
- Moringa powder is remarkably high in vitamin C, which your skin needs in order to produce collagen and promote cell turnover. This supports the skin’s ability to self-repair and maintain its youthful appearance. The collagen-related perks of moringa were observed in a study, where cream with moringa extract was applied to people’s faces. After three months, collagen formation increased and skin elasticity improved.
- It’s ideal for both oily and dry skin, as its high antioxidant content allows your skin to switch from protection mode to repair mode. This decreases the stress and inflammation that also triggers oil production. Moringa oil is also similar to the oil naturally produced by our skin, which means that it can help to balance and nourish all skin types without being greasy.
- Moringa oil is exceptionally hydrating and emollient, comprised of over 40% monounsaturated fatty acids. This makes it ideal for supporting the skin barrier, which seals in hydration and protects from environmental damage. This means that it is an excellent moisturizer and beneficial for dry and sensitive skin.
- The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the oil contribute to clearer skin, counteracting acne breakouts.
- Research has indicated that an extract of the leaf supports wound healing, by speeding up wound closure via stimulating dermal fibroblast cells. A more recent study found that a topical moringa gel improved wound healing and collagen formation.
- Moringa oil is high in oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, linoleic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants, working wonders when massaged into the scalp. It has anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties to help with scalp scaling.
- On the hair strands, the oil acts as a protectant and moisturiser; enhancing shine, protecting the hair against sun damage and colour depletion, and making hair stronger.
You will find moringa leaf powder in our Hygieia Facial Cleansing Powder; and moringa oil in our Psekas Hair Tonic and Ω Omega Complex Facial Oil formulations.
