Moringa Oil Benefits for Skin, Hair, and Health: Side Effects and Uses

Credit:iStock.com/kickkapoohjp

Moringa oil is used for health benefits ranging from inflammation to minor abrasions and can even be applied to the skin and hair for beauty treatment. Derived from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera (or drumstick) tree found in the Himalayas, this oil is known to have natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Moringa oil also adds a rich, nutty flavor to dishes when used in small quantities.

Commonly known as Ben oil, moringa seed oil possesses oleic acid, a valuable mono-unsaturated fat that makes it a sought-after commodity by cosmetic companies. Medicinal uses of moringa oil have been passed down since ancient times in Rome and Greece.

Moringa leaves, bark, seeds, and fruit all have beneficial nutrients that may treat or prevent a variety of ailments, disorders, and diseases. The moringa tree seeds used to make the oil have been shown in studies to help slow the aging process, as well as target sleeplessness, gout, dandruff, and extremely dry skin.

Nutritional Facts of Moringa Oil

The nutritional makeup of moringa oil includes high levels of the omega-9 fatty acid known as oleic acid. With its content above 70%, the oil may help to regulate blood pressure levels, and remains viable for long periods of time.

The oil also contains vitamins C and B, as well as a balanced amount of behenic acid. This saturated fat may cause cholesterol levels to rise, but when used in small amounts, behenic acid may protect the skin cells from environmental damage and reverse hair damage.

Moringa Oil Properties

Moringa oil has holistic properties that may heal cuts and abrasions, inflammation, and infections, and remove toxins from the body. The active components may also be beneficial for skin tissue cells.

• Antioxidants may protect the skin from harmful free radicals and reverse damage.
• Anti-inflammatory compounds may fight inflammation.
• Anti-aging components may protect against and tighten loosening of the connective tissue.
• Anti-microbial properties could potentially destroy harmful bacteria for water purification.
• Disinfectant activity may help cleanse wounds and minor cuts.
• May act as a preservative for foods to prevent spoilage.
• Moisturizing properties seal moisture into the skin and heal dry skin.
• Hepatoprotective components may work to protect the liver from damage.
• Exfoliant properties destroy dead skin cells.
• Therapeutic as a carrier oil in aromatherapy.

Moringa Oil Benefits 

1. Moringa Oil for Skin

The benefits of moringa oil for skin issues are attributed to its antiviral, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and astringent properties. These allow the oil to penetrate the skin to potentially treat minor and severe infections such as blackheads, athlete’s foot, and burns. Skin can also benefit from the moringa oil acne treatment and prevention use.

In addition to healing properties for the skin, moringa oil may offer moisturizing behaviors as well as skin tightening. It contains antioxidants to promote healthy, wrinkle-free skin. The oil also helps to diminish and prevent scars.

One study showed that the water-in-oil cream of hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves applied to photoaged skin effectively reduced excess sebum content, increased skin hydration, and was effective against skin wrinkles, roughness, and scaliness.

Researchers credited the phenolic compounds found in the extract for the benefits.

2. Moringa Oil for Hair

With vitamins and minerals such as zinc and vitamin A, studies indicate that the use of moringa oil for hair treatment may lead to diminished dandruff, improved hair strength, and added moisture to dry brittle strands. The oil promotes the flow of blood to the scalp, which may enhance hair growth.

The hair follicles and scalp are thought to be protected by the antibacterial, antioxidant, and emollient components of the moringa oil. These do not change the natural pH levels or the natural secretion of sebum of the hair.

3. Moringa Oil for Health

The potential health benefits of moringa oil cover several body processes, including the immune system, the heart, the brain, blood circulation, and the nervous system.

Antioxidants and oleic acid may promote a better sleep, increased energy, the production of good cholesterol, bone protection, blood pressure regulation, detoxification, and cell repair.

• Insomnia may be curbed by the behenic acid content in moringa oil. This acid is thought to help to calm and relax the body.
• Liver damage and high levels of toxins within the organ may be reduced with regular use of moringa oil.
• Blood pressure levels could potentially be lowered by the oil’s oleic acid through reduced cholesterol levels and the promotion of proper blood circulation.
• Abdominal disorders may be settled by the antioxidant properties in the oil, while proper digestion reduces acid build-up.
• A healthy immune system may be supported and boosted by the omega-9 fatty acids, anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and vitamin C and E components of moringa oil.
• Oral problems such as gum disease and dental issues may be treated with the oil.
• Joint health may be assisted, as the oil may reduce inflammation, boost range of motion, and treat pain associated with joint damage. This includes joint issues as a result of injury.
• Emotional issues such as anxiety or hysteria may be calmed by moringa oil.
• Energy levels may be boosted as the oil is believed to stimulate the brain and encourage proper physical functions.

Moringa Oil Side Effects

• Abdominal problems: The rich flavor of moringa oil encourages its use as a cooking aid. Only small amounts of the oil are recommended for consumption as the potency of the oil may cause stomach pain and discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and bloating.
• Blood pressure: While the oleic acid works to lower high blood pressure levels, moringa oil may also interfere with any prescription medication for the disease. The combination may reduce blood pressure to dangerous levels and result in hypotension.
• Pregnancy concerns: As moringa oil targets muscle contractions, the oil should not be used by pregnant women. Uterine contraction may lead to the onset of bleeding, a miscarriage, or premature labor. However, the oil may be used after delivery to stimulate breast milk production.
• Skin issues: Moringa oil is highly concentrated, which may cause an allergic reaction in some patients when used topically. Those with sensitive skin may see redness, or a rash of tiny, raised bumps accompanied by itchiness and a burning sensation.

Moringa Oil Uses

Moringa oil is commonly used as a:

• Cleanser to remove toxins, dead skin cells, and debris to treat and prevent acne and blackheads.
• Moisturizer for dry skin and repair skin cells damaged by eczema and psoriasis.
• Strengthener for hair follicles as the oil works to soften hair while preventing breakage.
• Anti-aging agent, as it may rejuvenate skin cells by enhancing production of collagen and elastin.
• Carrier oil for massage oils.
• Perfume base as an aroma retainer and to prevent deterioration of the scent.
• Lubricant for machinery and metal parts.
• Sleep aid in conjunction with lavender essential oil.
• Soap component as a deep cleanser and moisturizer in hand soap and shampoos.
• Additive in salads, marinades, vegetable sir-fry, and sauté dishes to enhance flavor. 

How to Make Moringa Oil

Hot Press Method

• Place the moringa seeds in a frying pan and brown to a dark color.
• Crush seeds in a bowl with a hand mixer.
• Boil crushed seeds in a pot of water until a film of oil appears.
• Continue to boil for a total cooking time of 20 minutes.
• Remove from heat and skim oil from the top.
• Cool and pour liquid into glass containers for storage.

Cold-Pressed Moringa Oil

• Sun dry moringa seeds to remove at least five percent of water content.
• Separate the seeds from the shell with a dehuller or cracker.
• Combine these seeds with a handful of unpeeled seeds.
• Use an electrical moringa oil extraction machine to retrieve the oil.
• Heat the machine before placing the seeds into the hopper.
• Once oil begins to drip from the machine, collect in a glass jar for storage.

Final Thoughts on Moringa Oil

Moringa oil is produced from the seeds of the drumstick tree, or Moringa oleifera. It has been used for centuries as a natural treatment for gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, oral health, and bone protection.

The oil may work to detoxify the body while healing wounds and protecting the skin cells. It is even recommended as a preventive tool in the aging process.

Moringa oil contains oleic acid, behenic acid, vitamins C and B, and other monounsaturated fats. These may work to promote proper function of the brain, heart, and other vital organs. The potency of the oil is guarded against use during pregnancy to prevent premature contractions or labor.

When used properly, moringa oil can be a helpful natural remedy as preventative medicine.