Exploring the Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Nutritional Properties of Moringa oleifera: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Moringa oleifera is one of the most nutrient-packed species, commonly known as the drumstick tree or miracle tree, and has garnered substantial popularity for its health benefits, phytochemical profile, and therapeutic potential. Moringa oleifera is a plant that is native to the Indian subcontinent and has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years owing to its nutritional and therapeutic properties. Methods: The leaves, seeds, pods, roots, and flowers of this plant are enriched with a wide range of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. Therefore, it is considered a reservoir crop for both nutritional and medicinal applications. Result: The recent rediscovery of the plant is at the forefront of changes in nutrition, medicine, and public health. Owing to its varied clinical applications, the plant is a potential candidate for research in new drug development and functional foods. Conclusions: Potential applications of Moringa compounds in the treatment of chronic diseases include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial (bacterial or fungal), and anticancerous effects. In this review, various phytochemical extraction techniques, therapeutic properties, and applications are discussed.