Approximately 15% of the worlds' population is malnourished.  Those numbers are overwhelming, especially when you understand that most of those numbers represent children. There is hope from something that I have never even heard about, the Moringa Tree. Curiously (or perhaps not so curiously) this tree grows right where it is needed the most!

One of the problems though is that many don't even know that the trees that surround them can help feed them too!

It is being called the Miracle Tree because its leaves are so nutrient dense that it can be used as a sole food source.  They can be dried and powdered for future use and don't require refrigeration.  They are also used to feed livestock healthfully.  It also goes by the name of The Mother Tree because it has helped so many pregnant women in Africa have easier deliveries and their babies are born healthier too.

Another sad and overwhelming fact is that over two million people die every year from diseases thought to come from contaminated water, the majority are children under the age of 5.  The Moringa tree is again the answer.  Amazingly, it's seeds can be crushed and used to purify water into a safe, drinkable source.

Every aspect of this life-giving tree is usable in some way to help sustain and nourish the people that need it the most.  The leaves, flowers, and buds can be eaten raw or cooked, the seedpods can be eaten like green beans (immature stage) or okra (mature stage).

Not only are the seeds usable to purify water but also contain an oil that can be used for lubrication (such as machinery), cosmetic creams, soaps, cooking, and to burn in lanterns because it doesn't smoke.  One mature tree can provide up to 200 - 300 pounds of seeds!

The trees themselves provide shade, erosion control, can be used as a living fence and, when combined with vining plants become a windbreak and/or privacy screen.  It is an extremely fast growing tree (10 - 15' feet per year).  The wood is not strong enough to use to build homes but is a good source of fuel for wood stoves and such. 

This sustainable resource also offers marketable fair trade commodities that can help sustain families and whole communities.  The most important fair trade marketable item is Moringa tea.  This is a flavorful, healthy, environmentally friendly drink.  This tea has a natural, spicy flavor, either hot or iced, and can be made into speciality flavors as well. Don't just drink the tea though, open the bag and add the contents to soups or stews to get the full benefit of the leaves.

Do be careful when purchasing moringa online as some of the products may not be pure Moringa nor organic.  I saw that the Vitamin Shoppe sells it and the health food stores in the area also carry it in powder or pill form.  If you are interested check it out and see which one is suitable for you.  I'm going to try it out to see if it will help with my eyesight, as it is being tested in India to help with blindness because of it's high Vitamin A content.  I'll keep you posted on the results.  Let me know about yours.  Enjoy!

A big Thank you to Char Tara for telling me about Moringa!