Exploring the Skin Advantages of Moringa in Skincare

Moringa powder is mostly available as a nutritional powder for consumption, however, this ingredient is starting to surface as a cosmetic ingredient, so let’s take a closer look at this amazing plant and what it offers in terms of skin benefits and health.

Moringa, often referred to as the “miracle tree” or “drumstick tree,” is a plant native to parts of Africa and Asia. Its scientific name is Moringa oleifera.

While it has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, its benefits in skincare have gained substantial attention in recent years. Here we explore the numerous ways Moringa can enhance skin health, backed by scientific evidence and traditional wisdom.

Nutritional profile of moringa

Moringa’s nutritional profile is quite incredible. While also considered a healthy food for internal consumption, moringa is packed with incredible nutrients that provide amazing benefits for the skin when applied through skincare.

Let’s take a look at its amazing nutritional compounds

Vitamin A (Beta-carotene)

• Essential for vision
• Immune function, and skin health.

Content

• Approximately 7564 IU per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

• Powerful antioxidant
• Aids in collagen synthesis, and enhances immune function.

Content

• Around 51.7 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

• Antioxidant that protects cells from damage and supports skin health.

Content

• Roughly 3.2 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

B-Vitamins (B1 – Thiamine, B2 – Riboflavin, B3 – Niacin, B6 – Pyridoxine, Folate)

• Important for energy metabolism
• Brain function, and red blood cell formation.

Content

• B1 (0.257 mg), B2 (0.660 mg), B3 (2.220 mg), B6 (1.200 mg), Folate (40 µg) per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Minerals

Calcium

• Essential for bone health and muscle function.

Content

• Approximately 185 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Iron 

• Crucial for oxygen transport and energy production.

Content

• Around 4.00 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Magnesium

• Important for muscle and nerve function
• Blood glucose control, and bone health.

Content

• Roughly 147 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Potassium

• Regulates fluid balance
• Muscle contractions, and nerve signals.

Content

• Approximately 337 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Zinc

• Supports immune function
• Protein synthesis, and wound healing.

Content

• Around 0.6 mg per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Selenium

• Antioxidant that helps prevent cellular damage.

Content

• Varies depending on the soil composition.

Amino acides

Moringa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source

• Leucine
• Isoleucine
• Lysine
• Methionine
• Phenylalanine
• Threonine
• Tryptophan
• Valine
• Histidine

Antioxidants and phytochemicals

Quercetin

• A flavonoid with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Chlorogenic acid

• It is known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels and act as an antioxidant.

Isothiocyanates

• Compounds with potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.

Niazimicin  

• Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Dietary Fibre

• Supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Content

• Approximately 2.0 g per 100 grams of fresh leaves.

Antioxidants and phytochemicals

Different parts of the Moringa plant offer varying nutritional benefits

Leaves

• Richest in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Seeds

• High in protein and fat, with a substantial amount of omega-3 fatty acids.

Pods (Drumsticks)

• Excellent source of vitamin C, dietary fibre, and minerals like magnesium and potassium.

Roots

• Contains various compounds with medicinal properties, though less commonly consumed due to potential toxicity.

Benefits of Moringa in skincare

Anti-Ageing Properties

• Moringa oil, derived from the seeds of the plant, is a powerful anti-ageing agent.
• It is rich in antioxidants that help reduce fine lines and wrinkles by neutralising free radicals that cause oxidative stress.
• The high content of vitamins A and C stimulates collagen production, promoting skin elasticity and firmness.

Moisturising Effects

Moringa oil is an excellent moisturiser. Its emollient properties help to soften and soothe the skin. It is particularly beneficial for dry and flaky skin conditions. The oil is easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for all skin types.

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

• The anti-inflammatory properties of Moringa make it effective in treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
• Compounds like isothiocyanates and niazimicin present in Moringa reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin.

Cleansing and Detoxifying properties

• Moringa powder, made from dried leaves, can be used as a natural exfoliant. It helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving the skin clear and radiant.
• Additionally, the antibacterial properties of Moringa help to cleanse the skin and prevent infections.

Brightening and Even Skin Tone

• Vitamin C in Moringa is known for its skin-brightening properties.
• It helps to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots, leading to a more even skin tone.
• Regular use of Moringa-based products can result in a brighter and more luminous complexion.

Healing and Repair

Moringa promotes wound healing and skin repair. Its high vitamin content accelerates the healing process and reduces scarring. This makes it an excellent ingredient for post-acne treatment and for repairing damaged skin.

Application in Skincare Products

Moringa Oil

• Used in its pure form or as a component in creams and lotions
• Moringa oil provides intense hydration and nourishment for the skin.
• It is suitable for use as a night serum, moisturiser, or even a makeup remover.

Moringa Powder

• Incorporated into face masks, scrubs, and cleansers
• Moringa powder offers exfoliating and detoxifying benefits.
• It can be mixed with other natural ingredients like honey or yogurt for a DIY face mask.

Moringa Extract

• Moringa extract, found in serums and toners

• Moringa extract is used for its anti-aging and skin-brightening properties.
• It helps improve skin texture and tone.

Several studies have supported the skincare benefits of Moringa

• A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Moringa, confirming its efficacy in skincare applications.
• Research in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science demonstrated that Moringa oil has excellent moisturising properties and can improve skin barrier function.
• Another study in the journal Molecules found that Moringa extracts have significant antibacterial activity, making them useful in treating acne and other skin infections.

Practical Tips for Using Moringa in Skincare

Patch Test

• Always perform a patch test before using a new Moringa-based product to ensure no allergic reactions.

Consistency

• For best results, use Moringa products consistently over time.

Combination with Other Ingredients

• Combine moringa with other natural ingredients like aloe vera, turmeric, or rose water for enhanced benefits

Consumption

For internal consumption, moringa provides incredible health benefits. It is available as a powder to be consumed in smoothies as it is quite bitter. Dose is also important, so it is advisable to start with just ¼ teaspoon.  For this reason, capsules are often the preferred option.

Contradictions

Contradictions include pregnancy and children. While relatively safe, if you suffer from any health issues or are on medication, it is always advisable to seek medical advice before combining supplements with medication. 

Skin ingredients

For the skin, however, moringa is a versatile and potent ingredient in skincare, offering a myriad of benefits, from anti-ageing to moisturising and healing. Its rich nutritional profile and various bioactive compounds make it a valuable addition to any skincare regimen.

As research continues to uncover more about its properties, Moringa is set to become a staple in natural and organic skincare products. Embracing Moringa in your skincare routine can lead to healthier, more radiant skin, truly living up to its reputation as the “miracle tree.”