Moringa Vs Ashwagandha: Which Superfood Is Better for Stress and Immunity

Ayurveda, the ancient medicine system of India, promotes overall health and wellness through natural remedies. Ayurveda works around natural herbs for human health, among which drumstick tree and Withania somnifera, popularly known as Moringa and Ashwagandha, holds a special value. With modern lifestyles turning into a daily hustle, growing stress and anxiety, there has been a surge in demand for these adaptogens. Due to their exceptional nutritional value, particularly in managing stress and strDt Sujatha Stephen, Chief Dietician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabadengthening immunity, these two have even gained the nickname of ‘Superfood’.

Despite already being a part of many people’s daily routines, there is a confusion about which is more effective for stress relief and which works better as an immunity booster. To gain more clarity over the same, we spoke with Ms Veena V, Chief Clinical Dietician & HOD - Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.

Ayurvedic Properties Of Moringa and Ashwagandha

In Ayurvedic science, both Moringa and Ashwagandha are regarded as one of the most precious single rejuvenators or Rasayanas. According to Dietician Ms Veena, “Moringa is a superfood that has been used traditionally to detoxify and nourish the body, as it balances Vata and Kapha doshas. Along with this, Ashwagandha is highly respected for its broad-spectrum Adaptogenic effect that leads to nervous system strengthening, stress relief, and overall vitality.”

She adds that in Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is considered a herbal medicine that improves physical stamina and mental sharpness.

Also Read: From Gym to Office: How Moringa Supports Men’s Daily Performance

Rising Demand For Moringa and Ashwagandha In modern Lifestyle

The modern-day lifestyle is fast-paced and brings high stress, unhealthy dietary choices, and sleep deprivation. These challenges of changing lifestyle have fuelled the demand for natural adaptogens including Moringa and Ashwagandha. Ms Veena explains, “People want to have safe-to-use, natural remedies that ease body adaptation to stress, hence, herbs like Moringa and Ashwagandha have gained immense popularity. They are instrumental in normalising cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, facilitating energy metabolism, as well as improving sleep and focus.”

The rising concern about holistic wellness, immune system, and plant-based nutrition has further contributed to high demand of these herbs, not only in India but across the world.

Health Benefits Of Moringa

Moringa's powerful anti-inflammatory properties contribute to the relief of stress-caused inflammation, whilst its nutrient-rich composition supports general well-being.

Elaborating the health benefits of Moringa, Dt Sujatha Stephen, Chief Dietician, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad says, “Moringa consists of a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals such as calcium, zinc, magnesium and iron, which makes it a perfect immunity booster. It also contains antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress, the most common cause of chronic fatigue and low immunity.”

While Moringa supports both immunity and stress management, it is particularly effective as an Immunity booster. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and promote digestive health. Consuming a powder-based Moringa smoothie, soup, or tea can become part of your daily regimen to keep your immune system strong.

Also Read: The Hidden Risks Of Ashwagandha: Can This Popular Supplement Cause Liver Damage?

Health Benefits Of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is particularly known to calm the nervous system and stabilise the stress hormones. It strengthens the body against both physical and mental stresses.

Ms Veena notes, “Ashwagandha imparts good qualities to sleep, concentration, and stamina. It can alleviate most cortisol-related disorders, and lower the anxiety level. Its medicinal properties are considered beneficial even for the thyroid and reproductive system.”

She adds that Ashwagandha has immune-modulating abilities, helping the body fight against foreign invaders in the defense system. This is why it is a herb of choice for physical strength and emotional balance.

Ashwagandha Vs Moringa: Managing Stress And Boosting Immunity

There is no doubt that both Moringa as well as Ashwagandha offer unique health benefits, particularly in stress management and boosting the immune system. According to Ms Veeeena, “Moringa acts better as an energy-filled superfood that nourishes the body and toned the immune system, whereas Ashwagandha works directly on the intervention of stress, hormonal imbalance, and mental wellness. “

Those who want an extra dose of nutrition each day will find Moringa more suitable, while individuals with chronic stress, insomnia, or weakness may benefit more from Ashwagandha.

Bottomline

Both Moringa and Ashwagandha act as natural shields against anxiety and maintain health and immunity in the long run. When used together, they only compliment each other. However, one must follow professional advice when already on prescribed medicine or dealing with any chronic health condition.