Malunggay a "miracle vegetable," says BAR
By Jessie R. Valdez
San Fernando City, La Union (2 October) -- Malunggay, described as the "miracle vegetable," is among the many native plants in the country that can contribute much to ones health, according to the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR).
The BAR disclosed that recently, the Medical College in Kolkota, India found out that among the many different medicinal herbs, malunggay, a green-leafy vegetables that has phytochemicals indicate the potential value it plays to prevent the development of cancer cells as well as treatment of female reproductive disorders like epithelial ovarian cancer.
Research studies also indicate that with malunggay as an effective treatment of ovarian cancer, this is attributed to a combination of anti-tumor and hormonal properties that can be taken from the malunggay's root bark extracts.
The plant, according to BAR has also antioxidants and can help prevent other chronic diseases like arthritis, kidney diseases and heart complications. Since it is also rich in vitamins A,C, and E, it helps maintain good eyesight, facilitates digestion and bowel movement, cleanses wounds and ulcers, cure stomach aches, scurvy, asthma, earache and headaches.
Malunggay, also branded as the drumstick tree or horseradish tree, is the most widely cultivated sample of the genus Moringa that can be grown almost anywhere using seeds and cuttings.
The DA revealed that three months after germination, the young leaves can already be harvested providing us vitamins, niacin, iron, calcium and protein.
With the many health benefits that malunggay can give as well as help farmers become their major source of income since it can be developed as an export crop under their biotechnology program, the DA and BAR have pledged to step up their campaign in the production and planting of said plant.
Recent studies also indicate that because of its nutritional value, the Department of Health also advocates to Filipino families especially lactating mothers to have more intake of the malunggay leaves in their daily diet since it's an excellent source of nourishment in breastfeeding babies. Tablets/vitamins made from malunggay is already available in drugstores in Region I and is recommended as supplementary diet.
In a related move, to further promote the development, production, and intake of malunggay, this will be showcased at the launching of the BAR's "Indigenous Plants for Health and Wellness Program" which is in commemoration with the proclamation of National Health and Wellness Month. (PIA La Union) [top]
