Why Are My Moringa Capsules Brown Instead of Green?
At Only Organic Wellness, we use Moringa extract to prepare Moringa extract capsules, not just dried leaf powder. The brown colour of our Moringa capsules is completely normal and a result of the extraction process.
Moringa leaf powder is typically green because it’s made by drying and grinding the raw leaves. In contrast, Moringa extract is created by concentrating the bioactive compounds—such as antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential nutrients—through a process that naturally darkens the final product. Once concentrated, the extract is spray-dried or freeze-dried, often resulting in a brown to dark green hue, depending on the extraction method and concentration level.
Why Is Moringa Extract Brown?
During the extraction process, many of moringa’s beneficial compounds become more concentrated—however, chlorophyll (the green pigment) doesn’t carry over as effectively into the extract.
Instead, the extract retains higher levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and other active plant compounds, which naturally have a brownish hue. Additionally, the concentration process can trigger chemical changes that influence the final colour of the product.
Think of it like brewing tea: even though the tea leaves are green, the tea itself turns amber or brown. Similarly, when moringa is extracted and concentrated, the final result is a brown-coloured powder, not green.
So, the brown colour indicates a potent, concentrated form of Moringa—not a lower quality product.
What are the benefits of Moringa Extract Capsules over Leaf Capsules?
Moringa extract capsules offer several key benefits:
✅ More Potent: One capsule of extract can be equivalent to 5–10 capsules of leaf powder in terms of nutrient concentration.
✅ Better Absorption: Extracts are more bioavailable, meaning your body can absorb and use the nutrients more effectively.
✅ Convenience: You need to take fewer capsules to get the same or greater effect.
✅ Enhanced Efficacy: Extracts are often used in scientific studies and clinical trials because of their consistency and potency.
However, if you’re looking for a gentle, food-based supplement for everyday use, leaf powder capsules are still a great choice—they offer a whole-food approach with fibre and all-natural nutrition.
Are the brown capsules safe and effective?
Absolutely! The brown capsules are not only safe but often more effective due to their concentrated nature. We source our Moringa extract from premium-quality Moringa oleifera leaves, using a clean extraction method (using ethanol-based), ensuring no harmful chemicals are involved.
All our capsules are:
✔️ 100% plant-based and vegan
✔️ Free from additives, fillers, and binders
✔️ Lab-tested for purity and potency
Which one should I choose—Moringa Extract or Leaf Capsules?
It depends on your needs:
Choose Moringa Extract Capsules if you’re:
Looking for faster results
Wanting high antioxidant support
Managing specific health concerns (e.g., inflammation, fatigue, blood sugar)
Choose Moringa Leaf Capsules if you’re:
Seeking everyday nutritional support
Prefer a whole-food supplement
Sensitive to stronger herbal formulas
| Aspect | Moringa Powder (Green) | Moringa Extract (Brown) |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration | 1:1 ratio (whole leaf) | 20:1 concentration(our extract) |
| Nutritional Profile | Contains all nutrients from the leaf, including fiber | Rich in active compounds, but contains little to no fibre |
| Flavour when tasted | Strong, earthy, and grassy taste | Milder flavour – often easier to consume |
| Typical Dosage | Higher - often 1-2 teaspoons or multiple capsules | Smaller doses needed due to the higher concentration |
| Cost Comparison | Usually more affordable per bottle | Lower - fewer or smaller capsules due to concentration |
| Processing | Minimally processed - dried and ground leaves | More refined – a concentrated extract of the plant |
Bioavailability: Does the Form Affect Nutrient Absorption?
A common question we hear is whether your body absorbs nutrients differently from moringa powder versus moringa extract. While direct research comparing the two forms is limited, we can draw insights from general nutritional science.
Whole leaf powder retains natural plant fibres, which can slow down digestion slightly. This slower process may help certain nutrients absorb more gradually, which can be beneficial for sustained release. However, for some nutrients, the presence of fibre might slightly reduce how much your body absorbs.
Moringa extracts, on the other hand, are more refined. The extraction process removes most of the fibre and concentrates the active compounds. This can potentially allow for faster and more efficient absorption of certain nutrients. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that some compounds in moringa were more bioavailable in extract form than in the whole leaf.
That said, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best form for absorption can vary depending on the specific nutrient and your individual health needs. Both forms have their benefits—and the right choice depends on your goals, whether it’s general nutrition or targeted support.
However, if you find it difficult to take moringa in powder form, we strongly recommend choosing moringa extract capsules over leaf capsules.
This is because moringa leaf capsules typically provide only a small amount of powder—around 600 mg per capsule—whereas a standard serving of moringa powder is about one teaspoon (approximately 10 grams). The nutritional difference is significant, and such a small dose from leaf capsules is unlikely to deliver noticeable benefits.
In contrast, moringa extract capsules are far more concentrated and effective, making them a much better alternative for those who prefer not to consume moringa powder directly.