Whilst almost 2 billion people are overweight, over 460 million suffer from malnutrition. And following on from the COVID-19 pandemic, where many western countries are reducing foreign aid to the Third World, this planet’s malnutrition issue is likely to become increasingly severe in the coming months and years.
Moringa could play a huge role in limiting, or even eliminating malnutrition in many parts of the world. Just consider some of the known facts about this incredible plant:-
Moringa Oleifera is highly nutritious, containing high quantities of vitamins, minerals, essential and non-essential oils, protein and fiber.
Although Moringa thrives within a temperature range between 25ºC and 35ºC, it can still survive and grow between 3ºC and 45ºC.
Moringa can grow from sea level up to altitudes of 1200 meters.
An established Moringa tree can survive periods of drought and extreme rainfall.
Moringa Oleifera is fast growing, and if harvested correctly, can grow back quickly.
Most species of Moringa are extremely resistant to plagues.
Moringa can adapt to a variety of soil types.
Moringa Oleifera leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.
Moringa Oleifera leaves can be dried and stored for relatively long periods of time.
Natural Moringa is relatively easy to cross breed between its varieties, permitting the creation of specific cross-breeds with adaptive traits for regional conditions.
Most parts of Moringa Oleifera can be used to feed livestock, allowing healthy growth and increased milk and egg production.
Perhaps this is Mother Nature’s answer. Many of the most suitable locations for the cultivation of Moringa coincide with areas of high malnutrition. Whilst in our world we use Moringa to enhance our already privileged lives, for many in other parts of the globe, availability of Moringa could mark the difference between life and death. We have the science, the logistics and the means to start this nutritional revolution. All we need, as a collective society, are empathy and motivation.