Moringa oleifera has, for centuries, been a humble participant in traditional cuisine in various parts of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Its leaves, in some parts, have been eaten raw, cooked, or dried in a domestic setting, largely valued for their high nutritional value rather than flavour. In more recent years, moringa has moved into mainstream consciousness due to the rising tide of interest in plant nutrition, functional foods, and novel, ‘sustainable’ sources of key, necessary nutrients. The practice of chewing raw moringa leaves, one of the least processed ways in which moringa can be taken, has recently attracted attention as an original, whole-food source of vitamins and phytochemicals. As diets in more ‘developed’ parts of the world continue to be dominated by processed foods, the idea of traditional practices like this one having health-supportive potential is attracting increasing interest in scientific and prospective nutritional communities.

3 ways moringa leaves can help your health

The act of chewing raw moringa leaves provides the user with an array of nutrients extracted directly from plants, making nutrients accessible through consumption without heat treatment. This form of consumption also closely relates to traditional ways through which moringa has been widely eaten. Studies reveal several overlapping regions in which the consumption may be advantageous.

1. Nutritional support and micronutrient availability

Another often-cited attribute of moringa is its sheer nutritional value. This is due to several key nutrients that are found in substantial amounts in moringa leaves, both as a vitamin supplement, including vitamin A-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron, and amino acids. The paper published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences explains how these nutrients are used as part of a physiological diet. The leaves can be chewed, which allows useful heat-sensitive components to be extracted. The saliva also has enzymes that initiate the breaking down of plant fibres. This may be a valuable source of nutrition for communities that may not have access to a variety of foodstuffs.

2. Metabolic balance and blood sugar regulation

The plant has compounds that affect carbohydrate and fat metabolism within the human body. Isothiocyanates and flavonoids from the plant are associated with enhanced insulin sensitivity and reduced glucose uptake. Chewing plant leaves promotes eating slowly, an aspect that may be crucial in preventing high peaks in blood glucose levels after eating. Slowing the intake of biological compounds enables controlling and regulating metabolism within human bodies.

3. Antioxidant and immune support

Oxidative stress arises when the level of free radicals overpowers the body’s endogenous antioxidant defences, hence leading to damage of cells. Moringa leaves come with antioxidants like quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and beta-carotene, which have the ability to counteract the effects of free radicals. Together with that, the leaves contain micronutrients that are vital for the Proper functions of the immune cells.

How to use moringa leaves safely and effectively

Raw leaves from the Moringa plant can also be eaten in moderation. Chewing on a few leaves that have been washed is not only beneficial but also enables people to enjoy the nutritional values in the plant. It is worth noting that the leaves can have a bitter taste. However, with maturity, the taste improves.

Safety measures related to the use of Moringa leaves

Although it has been observed that the leaves of this plant are quite harmless when consumed in moderate amounts, eating too much could result in some gastrointestinal problems for some people. Some parts of the plant should never be ingested; these include the root and bark of the plant. Those who already have some medical conditions should be careful.

Also Read | Could water replace oil to make tandoori-style paranthas? Here’s how

NEW DELHI: The shipping ministry has notified the guidelines for two major shipbuilding initiatives with an outlay of Rs 44,700 crore, aimed at boosting India’s shipbuilding capacity.The two schemes include the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS), with a corpus of Rs 24,736 crore, and Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS), with an allocation of Rs 19,989 crore. These schemes are expected to provide a strong policy push to revive shipbuilding activity, attract investments and strengthen India’s maritime ecosystem.Under SBFAS, the government will provide financial assistance ranging from 15% to 25% per vessel, depending on the category of ships built. The scheme offers graded incentives for small normal, large normal and specialised vessels, with disbursement linked to clearly defined construction milestones and backed by security instruments. Incentives for series orders have also been included to encourage scale and efficiency.Under Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS), greenfield shipbuilding clusters will receive 100% capital support for common maritime and internal infrastructure through a 50:50 Centre–state special purpose vehicle, while existing shipyards will be eligible for 25% capital assistance for brownfield expansion of critical infrastructure such as dry docks, shiplifts, fabrication facilities and automation systems.“These guidelines create a stable and transparent framework that will revive domestic shipbuilding, boosting forward and backward linkage amping ‘Make in India’ initiative, enable large-scale investment and build world-class capacity, positioning India as a major maritime nation on the path to Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” port and shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Saturday.A key feature of SBFAS is the proposed National Shipbuilding Mission, which will ensure coordinated planning and execution of shipbuilding initiatives. The scheme also introduces a Shipbreaking Credit Note, under which ship owners scrapping vessels at Indian yards will receive a credit equivalent to 40% of the scrap value, linking ship recycling with new ship construction and promoting a circular economy. Over the next decade, SBFAS is expected to support shipbuilding projects worth about Rs 96,000 crore and generate employment.The SbDS focuses on long-term capacity and capability creation, including establishment of an India Ship Technology Centre to support research, design, innovation and skills development. The scheme also includes a Credit Risk Coverage Framework, offering govt-backed insurance for pre-shipment, post-shipment and vendor-default risks to improve project bankability and financial resilience.

Thane: As preparations gather pace for the Thane Municipal Corporation elections, the civic administration has issued a strict warning to polling officials and staff against skipping mandatory election training, even as the nomination process got underway across the city. Municipal Commissioner and Election Officer Saurabh Rao said training sessions for polling personnel will be held from Dec 27 to 29, 2025, to ensure that the voting process is conducted smoothly, transparently, and in accordance with rules. A first day of training session was held. He cautioned that officers and employees who remain absent despite official orders will face disciplinary action and criminal proceedings, stressing that election training is an essential part of poll duty under Election Commission guidelines.For the conduct of polling, a total of 10,120 staff have been deployed across 2,013 polling booths. The training, to be held in two daily sessions at Ram Ganesh Gadkari Rangayatan and Dr Kashinath Ghanekar Natyagruha, will include detailed guidance on polling-day responsibilities, EVM handling, mock polls, voter identification, enforcement of the model code of conduct, and emergency procedures. Rao said no excuses for non-attendance will be accepted, noting that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and every assigned official is expected to discharge duties responsibly.Meanwhile, the nomination process for the civic polls commenced on Friday, with 521 nomination forms distributed across nine ward committees in Thane on the first day. Of these, 13 candidates filed their nomination papers before the respective returning officers — eight from the Uthalsar ward committee, two each from Kalwa and Diva, and one from Mumbra. Civic officials said that between Dec 23, 24, 26, and 27, a total of 3,599 nomination forms have been distributed so far. Ward committee-wise, Majivada-Manpada accounted for 65 forms, Vartak Nagar 53, Lokmanya Savarkar Nagar 100, Wagle Estate 58, Naupada-Kopri 60, Uthalsar 34, Kalwa 39, Mumbra 49, and Diva 63, with the administration stating that the election process is progressing smoothly under close supervision.

Silver prices surged over 15 per cent last week to reach Rs 2.42 lakh per kg in the nation’s futures market. This rally was driven by strong industrial demand, expected US interest rate cuts in 2026, and concerns about supply disruptions. The price surge was mirrored globally, with silver reaching an all-time high of $79.70 per ounce.On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), silver futures for March 2026 delivery jumped by Rs 18,210 in a single day. The white metal has shown incredible growth this year, rising by nearly 175% from its December 2024 levels.“Silver is no longer trading merely as a precious metal like gold. Its indispensable role in high-performance technology, combined with shrinking above-ground stocks and non-negotiable industrial demand, is reshaping its fundamentals,” said Rahul Kalantri, VP, Commodities, Mehta Equities, as quoted by PTI.The surge is largely attributed to China’s new export restrictions on silver, set to begin January 1, according to commodities experts. As the world’s largest consumer of silver for solar panels, electronics, and electric vehicles, China’s policy change is expected to hit global supply chains.Jigar Trivedi, senior research analyst at Reliance Securities, predicted that Comex silver prices could reach $100 per ounce next year, based on growing industrial demand outpacing supply.The precious metal has shown consistent growth in global markets too. Silver prices increased by $47.95, or 164 per cent, from $29.24 per ounce recorded at the end of 2024. Other factors that contributed to silver’s remarkable performance are strong industrial consumption, steady ETF inflows, and increased investment interest.

Grace Hayden, one of cricket broadcasting’s fastest-rising faces, marked her return from ILT20 duties with a warm, festive family gathering alongside her father, Australian great Matthew Hayden. Social media quickly lit up with images of the joyful reunion, blending holiday cheer with a touch of cricketing heritage.

Sports presenter Grace Hayden reunites with her father after UAE stint

The pictures – widely reshared by fan pages – show Grace and Matthew beaming together, capturing a relaxed, celebratory mood after weeks on the road.

Grace recently concluded a prominent presenting role during the ILT20 Season 4 in the UAE, where she featured extensively at matches involving the Dubai Capitals. Broadcasting from the Dubai International Stadium, she impressed viewers with confident analysis, smooth delivery and an easy rapport with players and pundits.

Her tournament posts drew thousands of likes, with fans praising her polished on-air presence and distinctive style. Photos from matchdays – often featuring elegant cream and white outfits -earned particular attention, including a popular “Lady in White” look that circulated widely during the league’s latter stages.

Grace’s Instagram stories charted the transition from tournament grind to holiday mode. Posts from the airport hinted at excitement about heading home, followed by celebratory captions such as “Let the holidays begin.” She also thanked the league publicly, tagging ILT20 with a message of appreciation: “Thank you for having me… you were a blast!”

Those posts set the scene for the family celebration that followed, as Grace reconnected with loved ones after weeks abroad.

Matthew Hayden’s influence on Grace

Beyond the festive photos, Grace has often spoken about the influence of father Matthew on her professional growth. In recent ILT20 reflections, she revealed that Matthew’s feedback sometimes blunt – has been instrumental in sharpening her craft as a presenter. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Grace credited both parents for maintaining strong family connections despite Matthew’s extensive travel during his playing career.

Their easy chemistry is evident in shared content over the years, from birthday tributes – such as Grace’s heartfelt message on Matthew’s 54th – to playful Ashes banter and light-hearted challenges testing each other’s IPL knowledge during Star Sports segments.

Also READ: ILT20 Season 4 – Complete list of presenters and commentators – From Grace Hayden to Mohammad Kaif

While new party images with Matthew are circulating online, fans have also resurfaced older festive moments – most notably a 2005 Australian team Christmas lunch where a young Grace posed with her father at home.

The contrast between this throwback and the recent reunion highlights how far Grace has come, carving her own path in the cricket world while staying closely connected to her roots.

Also READ: “I’m disowning my father…”: Grace Hayden’s hilarious warning to father Matthew Hayden after Joe Root’s Ashes century saves the day

Chaitanya Marpakwar Mumbai: After almost a week of negotiations between the BJP and Shiv Sena for the BMC polls, Mumbai BJP chief Ameet Satam on Saturday said that the two parties finalised a 128-79 (BJP-Sena) formula, but talks on 20 more seats were still pending. Satam mentioned that a decision on these 20 seats would be taken by the top leadership of the two parties. Sena functionaries stated that they had sought an additional 10-15 seats, taking their total to over 100 seats, which was their original demand when talks began. If there is a consensus on the remaining 20 seats, then the list of candidates could be declared on Sunday. The last date for filing nominations is Tuesday.“It has been decided that Mahayuti will contest 227 BMC seats together. There is already consensus on 200 seats, but the decision is pending for the 27 seats, and it will be decided based on the candidates and combinations of winability criteria,” Satam said.The BJP increased their offer by over 10-15 seats from their initial offer of just 70 seats. A senior Sena functionary said they were expecting a few more seats, and more rounds of talks were likely late on Sunday. The BJP stated they had conceded more seats from their initial offer of 60-70 seats, and it might not be possible for the party to concede over 100 seats. After the first round of talks, where CM Devendra Fadnavis and DCM Eknath Shinde were present late on Monday, there was a second round of negotiation between BJP’s Ashish Shelar, Ameet Satam, Praveen Darekar, Atul Bhatkhalkar, and Sena’s Uday Samant and Rahul Shewale late on Tuesday. There are 227 seats in BMC, and both Sena and BJP will have to accommodate some smaller parties, such as RPI (A), too.“The BJP was very reluctant to even consider any seat, beyond 70. But now, with the Shiv Sena (UBT)-MNS alliance in place and the challenge posed by the Thackeray cousins, they have offered around 80 seats. So they are more accommodating compared to before. We will have one more round of talks. But we are still keen on over 100 seats given the new political reality after the Thackeray reunion,” the Sena functionary said.At a meeting with CM Fadnavis on Monday, Shinde asked for triple-digit seats and told the BJP it would be hard for him to concede over 100 seats and explained the rationale behind the demand. The Sena functionary said Shinde claimed he had 60 sitting former corporators, and BJP must give it more seats to fight the Sena (UBT)-MNS combine in Marathi areas.

Mumbai: A 34-year-old caregiver accused of defrauding an 82-year-old retired IIT Bombay professor of nearly Rs 7 crore was granted bail. Nikita Vijay Naik was in judicial custody since June 2025. Additional Sessions Judge DG Dhoble observed that the continued detention of the accused would amount to “pre-trial punishment,” given that the investigation is complete and the charge sheet has already been filed.“The applicant is a woman having two children, and she has been in jail since her arrest, i.e., June 30, 2025. Considering the nature of allegations, facts, and circumstances of the case, and without expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, this court is of the view that the applicant deserves to be enlarged on bail,” the judge said.It was alleged that Naik, working as a domestic help for the elderly victim, took advantage of his visual impairment and isolation to embezzle Rs 6.93 crore between 2017 and 2025. The allegations included the misappropriation of Rs 1.03 crore from bank accounts, the theft of gold jewellery worth over Rs 8 lakh from a locker, and the fraudulent transfer of the professor’s share in three flats—valued at Rs 4.89 crore—via a registered gift deed. The police further claimed to have seized Rs 2 crore in cash from Naik’s bank accounts during the probe.Defending the caregiver, her lawyer argued that Naik was a victim of false implication. It was argued that the professor, a highly educated former academic, voluntarily transferred the assets out of “love and affection” because Naik cared for him during years when his own children allegedly deserted him. The defence said that until 2023, the informant was managing his own affairs and was of sound mind, suggesting the financial transactions were legitimate gifts rather than the result of coercion or fraud.The court, while considering the gravity of the financial fraud involving a vulnerable senior citizen, noted that the dispute over the property transfers and gift deeds was essentially a civil matter, which is already pending before a civil court. The judge referred to the legal principle that “bail is the rule and jail is the exception,” particularly for offences not punishable by life imprisonment or death. “One of the sons is a doctor by profession in Pune, and one of his daughters resides near his flat in the same vicinity. The alleged incident occurred during 2017 to 2025. The transaction of the flat is a registered one. The amount is transferred through the bank from time to time during the period…,” the judge said.In the order, the judge further said, “All allegations raised by the prosecution and submission of the applicant are required to be adjudicated during the course of the trial, and no final conclusion can be arrived at this stage.”Naik was granted bail on a bond of Rs 25,000 with strict conditions, including a prohibition on tampering with evidence or leaving the country without the court’s permission. The case was registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal breach of trust, cheating, and theft.