Moringa leaves are widely recognized around the world for their exceptional nutritional value, medicinal properties, and versatility in cooking. Known scientifically as Moringa oleifera, this plant is often referred to as a “miracle tree” due to its ability to thrive in harsh climates while providing immense health benefits. However, in India—where moringa has been cultivated and used for centuries—the plant is known by many different names depending on language, region, and cultural tradition.
Understanding the Indian name for moringa leaves offers valuable insight into the plant’s deep-rooted significance in Indian cuisine, Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and daily life. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Indian names of moringa leaves, their meanings, regional variations, and how these names reflect the cultural importance of this remarkable plant.
What Are Moringa Leaves?
Moringa leaves come from the Moringa oleifera tree, native to the Indian subcontinent. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and vibrant green. They are commonly used fresh, dried, or powdered in cooking and herbal remedies.
Moringa leaves are rich in:
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Vitamins A, C, and E
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Calcium, iron, and potassium
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Protein and essential amino acids
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Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Because of these properties, moringa has been a staple in Indian households long before it gained global popularity as a superfood.
Indian Name for Moringa Leaves: The Most Common Terms
India is a linguistically diverse country, and moringa leaves are known by different names across regions. Below are the most commonly used Indian names for moringa leaves.
1. Sahjan (सहजन) – Hindi
In Hindi-speaking regions, moringa leaves are commonly called Sahjan. The tree itself is known as Sahjan ka ped, and the leaves are referred to as Sahjan ke patte.
Usage and cultural context:
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Widely used in North Indian households
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Known for medicinal benefits in Ayurveda
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Often associated with immunity and digestion
2. Drumstick Leaves – English (Indian Usage)
Although not a traditional Indian language name, drumstick leaves is a widely used term in Indian English. It comes from the long, slender shape of the moringa pods, which resemble drumsticks.
This term is commonly used in:
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Indian grocery stores
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Recipe books
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Health and wellness discussions
3. Murungai Keerai (முருங்கைக் கீரை) – Tamil
In Tamil Nadu, moringa leaves are known as Murungai Keerai.
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Murungai refers to the moringa tree
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Keerai means leafy greens
Cultural importance:
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A staple in Tamil cuisine
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Used in dishes like Murungai Keerai Poriyal and soups
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Often given to postpartum women for strength and recovery
4. Munaga Aaku (మునగ ఆకులు) – Telugu
In Telugu-speaking regions, moringa leaves are called Munaga Aaku.
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Munaga = moringa tree
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Aaku = leaves
These leaves are commonly used in:
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Curries
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Lentil dishes
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Traditional herbal remedies
5. Nugge Soppu (ನುಗ್ಗೆ ಸೊಪ್ಪು) – Kannada
In Karnataka, moringa leaves are referred to as Nugge Soppu.
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Nugge = drumstick tree
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Soppu = leafy greens
Nugge Soppu is frequently included in:
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Traditional Karnataka dishes
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Nutritional meals for children and elders
6. Shevgyachya Paanya (शेवग्याच्या पानं) – Marathi
In Maharashtra, moringa leaves are called Shevgyachya Paanya.
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Shevga = moringa tree
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Paanya = leaves
Maharashtrian cuisine uses moringa leaves in:
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Bhaji (vegetable stir-fries)
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Herbal decoctions
7. Sajina Saag (ସଜନା ଶାଗ) – Odia
In Odisha, moringa leaves are known as Sajina Saag.
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Saag indicates leafy vegetables
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Widely used in traditional Odia meals
8. Soanjna Saag – Punjabi
In Punjabi-speaking regions, moringa leaves are often referred to as Soanjna Saag.
They are less common in everyday Punjabi cooking but are valued for their medicinal properties.
Regional Indian Names for Moringa Leaves (Summary Table)
| Language | Indian Name for Moringa Leaves |
|---|---|
| Hindi | Sahjan ke Patte |
| Tamil | Murungai Keerai |
| Telugu | Munaga Aaku |
| Kannada | Nugge Soppu |
| Marathi | Shevgyachya Paanya |
| Odia | Sajina Saag |
| Punjabi | Soanjna Saag |
| Malayalam | Muringa Ila |
Indian Name for Moringa Leaves in Ayurveda
In Ayurvedic texts, moringa is often referred to as Shigru.
Shigru in Ayurveda
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Considered heating in nature
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Used to balance Kapha and Vata doshas
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Believed to support digestion, circulation, and joint health
Ayurveda uses not just the leaves but also the bark, seeds, roots, and flowers of the moringa tree.
Cultural Significance of Moringa Leaves in India
Moringa leaves are deeply embedded in Indian traditions.
Traditional Medicine
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Used in home remedies for colds and inflammation
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Prepared as herbal teas or pastes
Religious and Ritual Use
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In some regions, moringa leaves are considered auspicious
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Used during fasting or religious cooking
Household Nutrition
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Commonly fed to children and elderly family members
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Valued as a natural source of iron and calcium
Indian Cooking Methods Using Moringa Leaves
Moringa leaves are cooked in various ways across India:
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Stir-fried with spices
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Added to lentils (dal)
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Cooked in soups and stews
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Dried and powdered for long-term storage
Despite regional differences, the nutritional value remains consistent.
Why Knowing the Indian Name for Moringa Leaves Matters
Understanding the Indian name for moringa leaves is useful for:
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Buying the correct ingredient in local markets
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Reading traditional recipes
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Exploring Ayurvedic and folk medicine
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Conducting cultural or botanical research
For travelers, researchers, and health enthusiasts, these names provide deeper cultural context.
Global Popularity vs Traditional Indian Knowledge
While moringa is marketed globally as a superfood, India has used it for thousands of years. The diverse Indian names reflect:
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Regional culinary practices
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Linguistic diversity
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Generational knowledge
This traditional wisdom is now being rediscovered worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Name for Moringa Leaves
What is the most common Indian name for moringa leaves?
Sahjan (Hindi) and Murungai Keerai (Tamil) are among the most widely recognized names.
Is drumstick leaf the same as moringa leaf?
Yes, drumstick leaves and moringa leaves come from the same tree, Moringa oleifera.
What is moringa called in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, moringa is known as Shigru.
Final Thoughts
The Indian name for moringa leaves varies widely across the country, reflecting India’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity. From Sahjan in Hindi to Murungai Keerai in Tamil and Nugge Soppu in Kannada, each name carries historical, culinary, and medicinal significance.
Moringa leaves are not just a modern health trend—they are a timeless part of Indian life. Understanding their Indian names helps preserve traditional knowledge while connecting it to global wellness practices.
As interest in natural nutrition and plant-based remedies continues to grow, moringa leaves—and the many Indian names that define them—will remain a symbol of sustainable health and cultural heritage.
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