Abstract
Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the "miracle tree", has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and has recently garnered interest from the scientific community for its therapeutic potential. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the phytochemistry, nutritional composition, and medicinal properties of different parts of M. oleifera. The leaves, pods, bark, roots, seeds, and flowers contain various essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and phytochemicals such as flavonoids, glucosinolates, and phenolic acids. These bioactive compounds confer anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, anti-venom, and wound healing properties. Extracts and isolates from M. oleifera have shown efficacy against diabetes, cancer, hypertension, pain, infertility, and infections in preclinical studies. Besides the medicinal applications, the plant has commercial potential for uses in food fortification, water purification, biodiesel production, and cosmetics. However, further research through rigorous clinical trials is required to validate the traditional medicinal uses and establish safe and effective therapeutic applications. The phytochemical diversity of M. oleifera also needs to be fully explored to identify bioactive lead compounds. Harnessing the nutritional and multi-therapeutic potential of this "miracle tree" can provide affordable treatment options especially in developing countries.
Article History
Received: Oct 28, 2023; Accepted: Mar 01, 2024; Published: Mar 28, 2024
Recommended Citation
Zeeshan, A.,
Munir, M.,
& Sadia, S.
(2024).
Unlocking the Promise of the ″Miracle Tree: A Review on Therapeutic Applications and Phytochemistry of Moringa Oleifera L.,
Journal of Bioresource Management, 11
(1).
