Bioactive Compounds and Medicinal Applications of Moringa oleifera: A Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46325/qcetyy93Keywords:
Moringa oleifera, Nutritional properties, Therapeutic applications, Bioactive compounds, Medicinal plants.Abstract
Moringa oleifera is increasingly recognized as a "miracle tree" due to its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties. This plant serves as a valuable natural resource, not only enhancing dietary intake but also aiding in the prevention and treatment of a variety of health conditions. Rich in easily absorbable proteins, iron, calcium, potassium, and essential vitamins such as A, C, and E, M. oleifera also contains significant levels of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols. Various parts of the plant such as seeds, roots, leaves, flowers, bark, and buds, demonstrate a wide array of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. This review aims to provide a thorough overview of the current global research on M. oleifera, covering its phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, toxicological data, and ethnomedicinal uses. Furthermore, it emphasizes its potential phytopharmaceutical applications and presents a case study illustrating its effectiveness as a natural coagulant in water purification. By synthesizing these findings, this review aims to inspire further research into the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of M. oleifera.
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