Moringa: The Ayurvedic Superfood for Nutrition, Metabolism & Complete Vitality

Ancient nourishment for strength, balance, and sustainable wellness

Ayurvedic practitioners consider Moringa (also known as Shigru in Ayurveda) a highly nourishing and cleansing herb that significantly supports maintaining strength, metabolism, and overall vitality. Ayurvedic scriptures also include descriptions of Shigru as Deepana-Pachana (helps with digestion and improving calorie burning), Balya (helps increase physical endurance), and Shothahara (as an anti-inflammatory). Moringa helps to balance both Kapha and Vata doshas, as well as providing a means of establishing normal Agni by clearing metabolic blockages, thereby making it ideal for individuals with sluggish (or low) digestion, who are malnourished, or who have accumulated toxic build-up (Ama). The high nutrient content of Moringa also offers patients an excellent source of energy, support for musculoskeletal health, and a means of providing strength during recovery periods.

What is Moringa (Moringa oleifera)?

शिग्रु तीक्ष्णो लघुः रूक्षो दीपनो लेखनो गुरुः ।
कफवातहरो मेध्यो बल्यः शोथविनाशनः ॥

Translation: Moringa is described as a powerful herb that stimulates digestion, reduces Kapha and Vata, clears metabolic obstructions, enhances intellect, promotes strength, and alleviates inflammation.

Moringa has been officially identified by many scientific studies as a nutritional superfood comprising vitamins A, C, and E and complete proteins (being made up of all the essential amino acids), as well as a large supply of important minerals, including calcium and iron, and a broad range of very powerful antioxidants, such as quercetin and chlorogenic acid. Research also demonstrates that moringa supports immune system function, regulates blood sugar and lipid metabolism, decreases chronic inflammation, and protects against the effects of oxidative stress. 

Ayurvedic Identity of Moringa

• Sanskrit Names: Shigru, Shobhanjana, Akṣhiva, Bahumula

• Botanical Name: Moringa oleifera

• Family: Moringaceae

• Part Used: Leaves (primarily), seeds, pods, flowers, bark and roots

Karma

• Balya – Enhances physical strength, stamina, and nourishment of Dhatus.

• Deepana & Pachana – Stimulates Agni, improves digestion, and corrects metabolic sluggishness.

• Lekhana – Helps scrape excess Kapha, Meda (fat), and metabolic toxins.

• Vatakaphahara – Pacifies aggravated Vata and Kapha Doṣas.

• Shothahara – Reduces inflammation, swelling, and pain.

• Pramehahara – Supports healthy glucose metabolism and metabolic balance.

• Medohara – Aids in lipid regulation and weight management.

• Yakrit-uttejaka – Supports liver function and detoxification processes.

• Raktashodhana – Purifies blood and supports circulatory health.

• Krimighna – Helps combat microbial and parasitic infestations.

Ayurvedic Properties of Moringa 

Classical references

Shaloka Reference:

अथ शोभाञ्जनः (सहिजना), (श्यामः श्वेतो रक्तश्च) | शिगुरू कटुः कटुः पाके तीक्ष्णोष्णो मधुरो लघुः ||दीपनो रोचनो रूक्षः क्षारस्तिक्तो विदाहकृत् । संग्राही शुक्रलो हद्यः पित्तरक्तप्रकोपणः ||

Translation: The description above describes the characteristics of the herb "Sigru", also known as Drumstick. It is a very pungent, strong herb when ingested internally. The heat produced from this herb is readily digestible and penetrative throughout the body's digestive system. Ingesting this herb helps reduce water retention in the body caused by excess heat (Pitta) in the blood tissue (Rakta). It stimulates digestive fire, increases taste perception, and helps to produce a good quality of semen.1

Top Benefits of Shigru (Moringa) as per Ayurveda 

Powerful Nutrient Rasayana for Strength, Vitality & Daily Wellness

Ayurveda regards Shigru as a Balya and Deepana-Pachana herb that enhances vitality and strength through improved digestion and assimilation of the nutrients, as are Rasayana herbs. Shigru produces Agni and clears the Ama through the correct nourishment of the Dhatus. A regular intake of Shigru enhances energy, muscle strength and resiliency in those suffering from fatigue, malnutrition or weak digestive capability.

Supports Healthy Metabolism & Weight Balance

The Lekhana and Medohara properties of Shigru have established it as a distinguished treatment of Kapha predominance in metabolic disorders. By stimulating the metabolic rate and decreasing the accumulation of Ama, Shigru supports a normal metabolic process for glucose and lipids. Ayurveda recognizes that Shigru can be of assistance to those diagnosed with Prameha and lifestyle-based disorders by improving insulin sensitivity, decreasing metabolic stress, and inhibiting the build-up of excess body fat while ensuring the integrity of the tissues.

Natural Anti-inflammatory & Joint–Muscle Support

'Shothahara' and 'Vedanasthapana' are terms referring to Shigru being effective in reducing pain, swelling and other inflammatory-related symptoms, as depicted in classical texts. It has historically been employed in the treatment of Sandhivata, Amavata and musculoskeletal stiffness, and recent scientific literature supports this use by demonstrating that Shigru contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that modulate inflammatory pathways and provide pain relief and muscle recovery in individuals suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions.

Enhances Digestion, Detoxification & Liver Function

Shigru is a strong Amapachaka and Yakrit-uttejaka that aids in the elimination of metabolic toxins and enhances liver function. Shigru also promotes detoxification through its ability to stimulate bile flow (improving liver metabolism) and helps to keep Srotas clear of toxins, which can help reduce sluggishness, fatty liver, and fatigue associated with toxins.

Supports Immunity through Nutritional & Antioxidant Strength

Shigru helps to maintain Vyadhi-kshmatva (the body's natural ability to resist disease) through providing concentrated micronutrients and protective antioxidants. Shigru has high levels of vitamin C, beta-carotene, polyphenols, and essential amino acids, which help to build the natural immune system of the body, promote faster recovery, and help to increase resistance to repeated infections and environmental stress.

Promotes Cellular Protection & Healthy Ageing

By correcting digestion, reducing inflammation, and improving nutrient utilization, Shigru helps improve endurance and recovery after sickness and physical exertion. Shigru is of particular benefit to persons who are under chronic stress, exposure to pollution, or experiencing nutritional deficiencies, providing a method of restoring balance and sustained vitality without excessive stimulation.

Shigru for Semen Quality, Virility & Male Reproductive Health

According to Ayurvedic teachings, the quality of healthy semen (Shukra Dhatu) is contingent on the strength of Agni, the quality and quantity of nourishment to the Dhatus, and unobstructed Srotas. Shigru is considered to be a 'Balya', 'Vrushya' (a mild herbal aphrodisiac), and 'Dhatu-pushtikara' – meaning it helps with the nourishment and strength of tissues when Agni is optimally functioning. Since Agni increases and Ama decreases, the effects of Shigru on improving the formation of Shukra Dhatu will improve the size, consistency and vitality of semen, particularly in cases of Kapha-related sluggishness, obesity, or metabolic disorder.

Scientific Studies on Shigru (Moringa)

Immunomodulatory & Antioxidant Effects

Research on Moringa oleifera has found that it contains high concentrations of polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as vitamin C. These components help the body counteract free radicals and help prevent oxidative stress. They protect immune cells so that they can function properly, as well as help to keep your body's immune response balanced. 

Antidiabetic & Metabolic Regulation

Research through both experimental and clinical trials has demonstrated that the use of Moringa will assist in regulating metabolic blood glucose levels through improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing your body's response to postprandial blood sugar increases. Some of these phenolic compounds include chlorogenic acid and isothiocyanate. These two substances improve carbohydrate metabolism, which reduces the amount of insulin required by your body. 

Anti-inflammatory & Analgesic Activity

In studies on Moringa extracts, they have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory compounds TNF-α, IL-6, and COX enzymes. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory properties of moringa support its use as an effective treatment for arthritis and joint pain, as well as other musculoskeletal disorders throughout history. By being able to reduce the inflammatory process, Moringa can relieve swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Hepatoprotective & Detoxification Support

Many animal and laboratory studies have indicated that moringa has the potential to improve liver health by increasing antioxidant enzymes and decreasing lipid peroxidation, thereby protecting the liver from toxic damage. It is hypothesised that moringa may enhance the liver's natural ability to remove toxins and thus may also assist with the improvement of liver function by supporting the health of the liver.

Cardiovascular & Lipid-Lowering Effects

In addition to the above studies, there is scientific evidence to suggest that moringa has a positive effect on lipids in the body. Moringa may help to reduce total cholesterol, LDL, and triglyceride levels, while at the same time supporting the production of healthy levels of HDL. Moringa appears to work by preventing the oxidation of lipids and improving the efficiency of the vascular system. Therefore, moringa appears to offer potential benefits for cardiovascular health and supports Ayurvedic beliefs about moringa's ability to act as both a Lekhan and a Medohara for treating obesity and other Kapha-related conditions.

Male Reproductive Health & Semen Quality

The antioxidant nutrients found in moringa, including zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, are believed to help protect sperm cells from damaging oxidative stress. Research conducted using animal models has demonstrated that moringa can increase the number of sperm and improve their motility and morphology. The increase in the number of sperm, their motility, and morphology was attributed to the reduced level of oxidative stress and the improved nutritional status of the experimental animals and thus supports the traditional belief of moringa's ability to support the growth and development of Shukra Dhatu by providing metabolic and tissue support.

How Shigru Works: Interlocking the Mechanism

Ayurvedic Mechanism

• Encourages Agni and rectifies errors in digestion and metabolism (Deepana–Pachana). 

• Elimination of Ama and removal of metabolic blockages (Amapachana & Lekhana). 

• Balances Vata and Kapha Dosha, especially with a dominant Kapha metabolic disorder. 

• Acts as a Balya, increasing the strength, stamina and nourishment of the Dhatu.

• Reduces inflammation and swelling (Shothahara) in the joints and soft tissues.

• Purifies blood and maintains proper circulation (Raktashodhana & Raktaprasadana).

• Promotes healthy liver functioning and body detoxification (Yakrit-uttejaka).

• Aids in the regeneration and resilience of healthy tissue in chronic weakness.

Modern Biomedical Mechanism

• Boosts cellular antioxidant defence systems and mitigates oxidative stress. 

• Modulates inflammatory mediators and cytokines involved in chronic inflammatory disease. 

• Increases glucose and lipid metabolism and helps insulin sensitivity. 

• Protects liver cells and meets the needs of hepatic detoxification pathways. 

• Provides dense micronutrients needed for enzyme activity and tissue repair. 

• Assists with the proper functioning of the vascular system and the balance of lipids, which is vital for cardiovascular health. 

• Boosts mitochondrial energy utilization, endurance and physical stamina. 

• Contributes to metabolic efficiency and tissue protection in times of stress.

Who Should Take Shigru (Moringa)?

• Individuals suffering from sluggish digestion or weak Agni.

• Individuals experiencing fatigue or overall low energy, or individuals who are simply feeling weak.

• Individuals who have nutritional deficiencies or poor nutrient absorption.

• Individuals with Kapha-Dominant Metabolic Imbalance.

• Individuals who are overweight or obese and have a lipid imbalance.

• Individuals with prediabetes, diabetes, or insulin resistance.

• Individuals with chronic inflammation or stiffness in their joints.

• Individuals who have fatty liver disease or metabolic fatigue from toxins.

• Individuals who are under chronic stress or suffer from exposure to environmental toxins.

• Men with low semen quality due to metabolic or nutritional causes.

• Athletes and physical fitness enthusiasts (e.g., those who go to the gym) require improved recovery time and stamina.

• Adults who want to support their metabolism daily and have longevity.

Safety Guidelines while using Moringa

• When used appropriately at recommended dosages, there is no risk with long-term use of this herb.

• Excessive use may cause Pitta aggravation (e.g., an increase in heat sensation or excessive acidity). 

• Use with caution if you have gastric issues or an ulcer or other conditions related to high Pitta. 

• Do not use medicinal doses while pregnant. 

• Nursing mothers should use it only under the guidance of a doctor.

• Those taking antidiabetic medicine or antihypertensives should monitor their levels when taking this herb. 

• Consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before using this herb for chronic or long-term purposes.

Yukti Herbs Moringa (Shigru) Capsules 500mg Standardized Extract

Metabolic Support • Nutritional Vitality • Natural Strength & Recovery

Yukti Herbs Shigru Capsules contain 500 mg of standardized Moringa oleifera leaf extract in 100% vegetarian capsules. Shigru, valued in Ayurveda as a powerful Balya and Deepana–Pachana herb, is known for supporting digestion, metabolism, and overall vitality while nourishing the body with essential nutrients.

This formulation helps improve Agni and metabolic efficiency, supports healthy glucose and lipid metabolism, reduces inflammation, and aids natural detoxification through liver support. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, Shigru supports immune resilience, muscle strength, stamina, and recovery during fatigue, nutritional deficiency, and lifestyle-related metabolic imbalance.

References:

1. Bhav Prakash Nighantu, Guducyadi Varga, Shloka 105-106

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