They also saw the Moringa tree as an “Elixir of long life”, “the Tree of Immortality”, “the Tree of Life”, “the Never Die Tree”, “the Miracle Tree" and “Mother’s best friend”. Other common names for Moringa are Drumstick tree (referring to the large drumstick shaped pods) Horse-radish tree, Benolive tree (referring to the oil that can be squeezed out of the seeds)

Step 2 - Washing:

1.The Moringa leaves are transported to the Processing Plant where they are first washed in large buckets or pots in well or catchment water.

2. The second wash is done using BioSand filtered water. This particular type of filter is an adaptation of the traditional slow sand filter, which has been used for community water treatment for almost 200 years. The BSF is smaller and adapted for intermittent use, making it most suitable for households, typically around five people. The filter body, or the outside of the filter (also known as the filter container), is commonly made of concrete.

Step 4 - Drying:

The leaves are now placed in the drying trays in the shade for 2 - 3 days.

The leaves are shifted around a few times per day to ensure a circulation of air.

The drying area must be rodent free.

Photographs compliments of Shape Lives Foundation

Step 6 - Grinding:

A flour grinding mill can be used attached to a small engine to work the machine.

Photographs compliments of Shape Lives Foundation

Step 8- Weighing and packaging:

Photographs compliments of Shape Lives Foundation

This is the latest video from Shape Lives Moringa Farm showing all the various stages of processing Moringa and the processing methods. This various video shows the experience gained in processing Moringa for the past years and adopting the best hygiene practices to ensure quality.

CLICK to view