Across Africa’s farmlands and backyards grows a tree that is transforming both health and livelihoods — Moringa oleifera, fondly called the Tree of Life. Known locally as zogale in Nigeria, m’longe in Malawi, and yavontor in Ghana, moringa has been part of African food and healing traditions for generations.
Today, it’s not only a household remedy but also a source of extra income for women entrepreneurs. From smallholder farmers in rural communities to urban women running online herbal shops, moringa is opening up new opportunities for financial independence.
The appeal is simple: it grows fast, needs little water, and almost every part of the plant — leaves, seeds, flowers, and oil — can be sold. Women are now packaging moringa powder for supermarkets, producing herbal teas for health-conscious customers, and even using moringa oil in beauty products. For many, this side business supplements family income, pays school fees, or funds bigger business dreams.
Why Moringa is Africa’s Green Gold
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that moringa leaves are among the most nutrient-dense foods in the world. Per gram, they contain:
- 7× more vitamin C than oranges
- 4× more vitamin A than carrots
- 4× more calcium than milk
- 3× more potassium than bananas
- 2× more protein than yogurt
For women and children, especially in rural Africa, these nutrients can be life-changing — strengthening immunity, fighting malnutrition, and improving overall health.
A Tradition Rooted in Care
For centuries, African women have used moringa in postpartum meals to help new mothers recover and produce more breast milk. In some communities, moringa leaves are dried, ground, and sprinkled into porridge to boost nutrition for children.
A single teaspoon of moringa powder can significantly increase a child’s daily vitamin and mineral intake — a low-cost intervention with high impact in fighting malnutrition.
Women Entrepreneurs Turning Leaves into Livelihoods
The economic potential of moringa is just as powerful as its health benefits.
- In Ghana’s Upper East Region, women’s cooperatives grow moringa, process the leaves into powder, and sell them in both local markets and supermarkets. Some cooperatives report earning up to GHS 2,500 per month in extra income during peak seasons.
- In Nigeria, women-owned beauty brands are incorporating moringa oil into natural skincare lines, attracting both domestic and international buyers. Some small brands have reached annual revenues exceeding $50,000.
- In Kenya, female farmers have partnered with export companies to supply moringa tea leaves to Europe and Asia, tapping into the global moringa products market, which the African Development Bank projects will reach $10 billion by 2030.
For many of these women, moringa is more than a plant — it’s a path to self-reliance, education for their children, and community development.
How to Use Moringa at Home
- Powder: Add 1 teaspoon to smoothies, soups, or tea for a daily nutrient boost.
- Fresh leaves: Steam lightly and serve as a side vegetable.
- Oil: Apply to skin and hair for natural hydration and shine.
Herbal Spotlight Tip:
If you’re a woman farmer or aspiring entrepreneur, consider cultivating moringa. It’s low-maintenance, grows all year round, and has multiple product possibilities. With global demand rising, moringa could be your gateway to both better health and a thriving business.Join the Conversation:
Do you use moringa in your daily life — for health, beauty, or business? Share your experiences with us using #HerbalSpotlight and #MoringaMagic.
