Consume drumstick, but don’t dump its seeds!

Rajkot: The immense healing properties of moringa or drumstick are well documented. But its seeds as well as the seed shells are also not worth trashing in the bin.
After three years of research, biotechnology scientists at Junagadh Agriculture University (JAU) have found that the drumstick seeds are extremely helpful in cardiovascular disease, diabetes and are high in anti-oxidants that help prevent cancer.
Detailed studies in their food testing lab found that the moringa seeds were a good source of proteins, have anti-diabetic property and contain several compounds like saponin that helps lower LDL (bad cholesterol) as well risk of developing certain cancers or tumours.
Assistant professor, Dr. Shraddha Bhatt, said: “Women would be glad to know that the seeds and shells are loaded with lipids called ceramides which help keep the skin firm and youthful.”
JAU got the idea of studying the properties of moringa seeds and cover from Milan Panara, a scientific assistant with Indian Meteorological Department in Diu, who read about their medicinal values in ayurvedic books. Panara convinced JAU’s biotechnology department to scientifically study their various properties.
Dr. Rukamsinh Tomar, associate professor of biotechnology department said, “Besides having anti-diabetic property, the nutrients in the seeds and shells help improve vision and aid the functioning of lungs, kidneys and other organs.”
Cookies made from moringa seeds
Rajkot: After Junagadh Agriculture University (JAU) team managed to get rid of the bitterness of the seeds and shells, Diu-based Milan Panara now plans to launch cookies and chocolates made out the powder. Talking to TOI, Panara said the idea is to make this immensely beneficial part of moringa more palatable so that maximum people can be benefited.
“We will certify the nutraceutical values of the cookies after lab testing once Panara makes them,” added Dr Shradda Bhatt.
Seed powder a natural water purifier
Rajkot: JAU scientists found that powder made from moringa seeds and cover is a natural water purifier. The biotechnology department created a candle of reverse osmosis (RO) using the powder and water was passed from it. The result was that a significant load of bacteria from the water had decreased.