Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Maharashtra Institute of Pharmacy, Betala Bramhapuri, Maharashtra, India.
Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam, Moringaceae) is a multipurpose plant cultivated mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, valued for their food, medicinal, and industrial applications. It is also called “The Mother’s Best Friend” for its ability to increase milk production in nursing mothers; it is a highly nutritious and medicinal plant. Moringa leaves contain 7 times the vitamin C of oranges, 4 times the calcium of milk, 4 times the vitamin A of carrots, 3 times the potassium of bananas, and 2 times the protein of yogurt. They serve as food for humans and forage for animals, while also contributing to soil fertility, biogas production, gum production, pulp, and water purification, among other uses. Moringa is a deciduous, perennial tree that grows to a height of 10–12 meters. It can thrive in diverse climatic conditions, ranging from rainforest zones to areas with low rainfall. The young leaves are edible and are commonly cooked and eaten like spinach or used in soups and salads. They are an excellent source of provitamin A, vitamins B and C, minerals (particularly iron), and sulfur-containing amino acids, methionine, and cystine. The amino acid composition of the leaf protein is well balanced. Since dried leaves are more concentrated, they contain higher amounts of many of these nutrients. Extracts from the leaves are used to treat malnutrition, augment breast milk in lactating mothers. It is used as potential antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antimicrobial agent. M. oleifera seed, a natural coagulant is extensively used in water treatment. The scientific effort of this research provides insights on the use of moringa as a cure for diabetes and cancer and fortification of moringa in commercial products. This review explores the use of moringa across disciplines for its medicinal value and deals with cultivation, nutrition, commercial and prominent pharmacological properties of this “Miracle Tree”.
Nature has provided a complete storehouse of remedies to cure all ailments of mankind. Since the dawn of civilization, in addition to food crops, man has cultivated herbs for his medicinal needs. Herbal medicines are a Valuable gift of nature, and have been playing a significant role in the prevention and treatment of various human ailments. Herbal medicine is gaining more attention in clinical research for treating and preventing various diseases. Plants have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. Drumstick leaves (Moringa oleifera) are one of them, which are available at no cost and are very rich in all micronutrients. It is an exception. A Nutritious tree with a variety of potential uses, with medicinal, nutritional, and socioeconomic value. The tree is often referred to as a “wonder-tree” for its multipurpose usability and is also known as 2 “Drumstick-tree, Horseradish-tree, and Ben-oil tree. Affectionate names to Moringa, people gave us “Miracle Tree,” “Mother’s Best Friend,” and “Never Die.” [1]. Leaves possess remarkable nutritional and medicinal qualities. They contain high amounts of vitamin C, which helps fight illnesses such as colds and flu; vitamin A, which protects against eye and skin diseases, heart ailments, diarrhea, and many other conditions; calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth and helps prevent osteoporosis; potassium, which is essential for proper brain and nerve function; and proteins, the basic building blocks of all body cells. Another important point is that moringa leaves contain all essential amino acids in good proportion, making them a valuable protein source for people who do not consume meat. Moringa also contains arginine and histidine, two amino acids especially important for infants who cannot produce enough protein for their growth requirements [2]. They can be consumed fresh or dried. Dried leaves have a long shelf life and can be used regularly. Many companies worldwide produce various moringa products such as moringa tea, tablets, capsules, leaf powder, soaps, and face wash. Some beverages made from moringa leaves are also available on the market. Hence, hygienic drying and processing of moringa leaves are necessary for further use.Because of these exceptional properties, Moringa leaves are an important can dietary supplement,especially for communities lacking access to animal protein. To maximize benefits, hygienic drying and processing methods are essential for safe and effective consumption [3].
The chart below will give you a quick view of the source of the nutrients contained in the leaf:
Figure 1: Dry Moringa Leaf Contains
Moringa leaves are exceptionally nutrient–dense, containing vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, iron, and protein in forms that are easily digested and absorbed by the human body. Beyond these essential nutrients, it contains over 40 antioxidants and approximately 539 bioactive compounds. According to traditional African and Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine, these compounds are believed to help prevent more than 300 diseases [4].
2. MATERIALS AND METHODS
Collection: To avoid variations in micronutrient content due to soil differences, Moringa oleifera leaves were collected at the same time from a single tree. Only young, healthy leaves were selected for producing high-quality dried powder. Washing Leaves were separated from the main branches and washed thoroughly 3–4 times to remove dirt and debris. Moringa leaves are typically 20–70 cm long, with 8–10 pairs of pinnae bearing opposite elliptic or oblong leaflets, and a terminal leaflet about 1–2 cm long. After washing, excess water was removed by air-drying at room temperature on clean paper, turning the leaves frequently to prevent fungal growth. Petioles were kept intact for easier handling. The leaves were tied into small bundles, hung in open spaces to drain and air dry, and finally separated from the petioles before drying the process was completed.
Freshly washed Moringa oleifera leaves were spread on cotton sheets and placed in a well-ventilated, dust- and insect-free room for shade drying using natural airflow. Drying continued until the leaves became brittle, retaining only 6–7% moisture. The dried leaves were then ground with a mortar and pestle, and the powder was passed through a fine 1 mm sieve [5]
Preservation Methods of Moringa leaves retain their nutrients even after long-term storage when frozen or dried. Dehydration extends shelf life while preserving most nutrients, though excessive Consumption can lead to high iron levels, potentially causing hemochromatosis or gastrointestinal discomfort [6]
3. Botanical Description
Moringa is a slender softwood tree that branches freely and can be extremely fast-growing. Although it can reach heights of more than 10 m (33 feet), it is generally considered a small- to medium-sized tree [7]. The alternate, twice- or thrice-pinnate leaves occur mainly at the tips of the branches. They measure 20–70 cm in length and are grayish-downy when young. Each long petiole bears 8–10 pairs of pinnae, with every pinna carrying two pairs of opposite, elliptic to obovate leaflets, plus a single terminal one, all about 1–2 cm long. Small glands are present at the bases of both the petioles and the pinnae [8].
Table No 1: Regional and Traditional Name
|
Region Names |
Traditional Names |
|
Latin |
Moringa oleifera |
|
Sanskrit |
Subhan Jana |
|
Hindi |
Aguna, Sainjna |
|
Tamil |
Morigkai |
|
Unani |
Sahajan |
|
Ayurvedic |
Akshiva, Haritashaaka, |
|
English |
Drumstick tree, Horseradish tree, Ben tree |
4. Geographical Description:
The tree is wild in the Sub-Himalayan tracts from Chenab to Oudh. It grows at elevations from sea level to 1400 m. It is very commonly cultivated near houses in Assam, Bengal, and peninsular India. It is a prolific coppice16. It is also cultivated in the north-eastern area. Pakistan, north-eastern Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, West Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, East and West Africa, throughout the West Indies and southern Florida, in Central and South America from Mexico to Peru, as well as in Brazil and Paraguay [9].
5. Medicinal properties and Pharmacological action: -
Medicinal properties: Moringa oleifera has long been recognized as an important nutritional supplement with a wide range of medicinal properties. According to India’s ancient Ayurvedic tradition, the leaves of the Moringa tree are believed to prevent 300 diseases. M. oleifera leaves act as antioxidants, adding another valuable attribute to their pharmacological importance. The most effective solvents for extracting antioxidant compounds from M. oleifera leaves are methanol (80%) and ethanol (70%). Table 5 presents a detailed summary of the medicinal properties of different parts of the Moringa plant.
Fresh leaves can be rubbed against the temples to relieve headaches or applied as a poultice on shallow cuts to stop bleeding. Moringa leaf tea is effective for healing gastric ulcers and diarrhea. The leaves are also used to treat fevers, bronchitis, eye and ear infections, and inflammation of the mucous membrane. Due to their high iron content, they are often prescribed to combat anemia. Research has shown that M. oleifera leaf extracts help regulate hyperthyroidism, act as an antineoplastic agent in the treatment of sickle cell disease and possess anti-ulcer properties. They also function as hypocholesterolemic agents in obese patients, show antiproliferative activity, and induce apoptosis in human cancer cells [. A study by Suphachai (2014) [ further provided evidence that M. oleifera leaves have chemopreventive and cytotoxic properties, suggesting their potential as alternatives to anticancer drugs. M. oleifera leaves are also used as ethnomedicine for diabetes mellitus. Experimental findings by Soliman (2013) and Yassa (2014) demonstrated that aqueous extracts of M. oleifera leaves may serve as a potent antidiabetic treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1–4 grams per day of Moringa leaf powder is sufficient to meet the nutritional needs of an adult. Findings from Ganatra et al. (2012b) and Panda et al. (2013) suggest that the cardioprotective potential of alkaloids isolated from M. oleifera leaves is mediated through their free radical scavenging activity. Additionally, M. oleifera has been shown to reduce alcohol-induced testicular toxicity through antioxidant properties comparable to vitamin C. A study demonstrated that pretreatment with methanolic extracts of M. oleifera leaves provided significant radiation protection to bone marrow chromosomes in mice and prolonged survival for 30 days after lethal whole-body irradiation.Research by Bakre et al. (2013) supports the traditional use of M. oleifera leaf extracts in the treatment of epilepsy. The leaves show a dose-dependent CNS-depressant effect (sedative–hypnotic, anticonvulsant), likely mediated through positive modulation of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor.
Pharmacological action: Moringa oleifera leaves are known for their diverse pharmacological action, such as antioxidants, antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory effects:
Figure: pharmacological action of Moringa oleifera leaves [10].
5. Nutritional uses
Moringa oleifera is considered the most nutrient-dense plant discovered so far. Used for centuries in traditional diets and healing practices, it gained significant scientific attention starting in the 1970s. Rich in essential nutrients, amino acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, Moringa is often called the “Miracle Tree” or “Mother’s Best Friend.” Since 1998, the World Health Organization has promoted it as a local solution to malnutrition, reducing dependence on imported foods.
A unique feature of Moringa is that its leaves contain all essential amino acids in beneficial amounts proportions — something rarely found in plants. This makes it a valuable protein source, particularly for communities with limited access to meat. Importantly, it also provides arginine and histidine, two amino acids crucial for infants’ growth and development. With protein deficiency affecting nearly 30% of children in sub-Saharan Africa, Moringa could be a life-changing resource. Beyond human nutrition, Moringa also enhances livestock productivity. Studies show that supplementing cattle feed with fresh or dried Moringa leaves significantly boosts both weight gain and milk production—up to 65% in some cases. If applied widely, this could significantly transform food security in developing countries and help combat protein malnutrition on a large scale [15]. Fuglie (2005) reported that an 8 g serving of dried Moringa leaf powder can meet a child’s daily requirements (ages 1–3) by providing 14% of protein, 40% of calcium, 23% of iron, and nearly all of the required vitamin A. For women, a 100 g portion of leaves can meet more than one-third of daily calcium needs while also supplying significant amounts of iron, protein, copper, sulfur, and B vitamins [11].
Table2:- Nutritional values of 100 Grams fresh and dried Moringa oleifera leaves.
|
Nutrients |
Fresh Leaves |
Dried Leaves |
|
Calories (cal) |
92(cal) |
205(cal) |
|
Crude protein (g) |
6.70 g |
27.1 g |
|
Fat (g) |
1.70 g |
2.3 g |
|
Carbohydrate (g) |
12.5 g |
38.2 g |
|
Fiber (g) |
0.90 g |
19.2 g |
|
Calcium (mg) |
440 mg |
2,003 mg |
|
Potassium (mg) |
259 g |
1.324 mg |
|
Iron (mg) |
0.85 mg |
28.2 mg |
|
Magnesium (mg) |
42 mg |
368 mg |
|
Copper (mg) |
1.07 mg |
0.57 mg |
|
Vitamin A (mg) |
1.28 |
3.63 |
|
Vitamin C (mg) |
220 mg |
17.3 mg |
|
Vitamin E (mg) |
448 |
10.8 |
|
Arginine |
406.6 mg |
1,325 mg |
|
Histidine |
149.8 mg |
613 mg |
|
Lysine |
342.4 mg |
1,325 mg |
|
Tryptophan |
107 mg |
4425 mg |
|
Phenylalanine (g/16 gN) |
310.3 mg |
1,388 mg |
|
Threonine (g/16 gN) |
117.7 mg |
1.188 mg |
6.Phytochemical Analysis of moringa leaves: - Since the leaves of Moringa oleifera are the most widely utilized part of the plant, this review focuses on their phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties. Numerous bioactive compounds have been identified in the leaves, including vitamins, carotenoids, polyphenols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, tannins, saponins, as well as antinutritional factors like oxalates and phytates [12].
1.Vitamin:
Moringa oleifera leaves are rich in several essential vitamins, though their content varies depending on environmental conditions, plant genetics, drying methods, and extraction techniques000.
A. Vitamin A C β-carotene: Fresh leaves contain 11,300–23,000 IU of vitamin A, important for vision, reproduction, immunity, cell growth, and brain function.
B. Vitamin C: Fresh leaves provide about 200 mg/100 g, surpassing oranges. Vitamin C supports metabolism, cholesterol conversion, iron absorption, and antioxidant defense.
C. Vitamin E (α-tocopherol): Present t ~9.0 mg/100 g in fresh leaves, comparable to nuts. Drying raises concentrations to 74.45– 122.16 mg/100 g DW. Besides its antioxidant role, vitamin E regulates gene expression, bone mass, and cell proliferation.
D. B Vitamins: Only thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3) have been detected. In fresh leaves, levels range from 0.06–0.6 mg/100 g (B1), 0.05–0.17 mg/100 g (B2), and 0.8–0.82 mg/100 g (B3). In dried leaves, reported concentrations are higher (2.85, 22.16, and 8.86 mg/100 g DW, respectively), though riboflavin values may be overestimated. Bioavailability of these vitamins is moderate (61.6% for B1, 51.5% for B2, 39.9% for B3).
E. Other Vitamins: No reliable data exist on vitamins B5, B6, B12, D, or K in Moringa oleifera leaves, high lighting the need for further research.
2. Polyphenols: Moringa oleifera dried leaves are rich in polyphenols, with concentrations ranging from 2,090 to 12,200 mg GAE/100 g DW or 1,600 to 3,400 mg TAE/100 g DW. These levels are notably higher than those typically found in fruits and vegetables. Variations in reported values can be attributed to environmental conditions, plant genetics, harvesting season, leaf maturity, drying techniques, and extraction methods. The main polyphenols present are flavonoids and phenolic acids.
3. Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds, known for their antioxidant and protective effects against infectious and degenerative diseases, are abundant in Moringa. Total flavonoid content ranges from 5.06–12.16 mg/g DW in dried leaves and 21.0–61.62 mgRE/g DW in freeze-dried leaves—levels comparable to or higher than many fruits and vegetables. The major flavonoids include myricetin (~5.8 mg/g), quercetin (0.2–16.6 mg/g), and kaempferol (ND–7.6 mg/g), with higher concentrations in freeze-dried leaves.
4. Phenolic Acids: Compounds like gallic, chlorogenic, caffeic, ellagic, and ferulic acids contribute to antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Concentrations vary widely depending on dry analytical methods, with gallic acid being the most abundant in dried leaves (~1.03 mg/g). Freeze- dried samples show higher levels of some acids, including o-coumaric and caffeic acid.
5. Alkaloids: Several alkaloids—such as niazirin, marumosides, and methyl carbamates—have been identified though their quantitative levels remain unreported. These compounds are pharmacologically important.
6. Oxalates and Phytates: Although beneficial compounds dominate, Moringa also contains anti-nutrients. Oxalates (430–1050 mg/100 g DW) are within ranges typical for oxalate-rich plants, while phytates are found at 21–31 g/kg DW—higher than legumes and cereals but lower than bran. These compounds reduce mineral bioavailability [13].
8.Traditional Wisdom
In many tropical cultures, the distinction between food and medicine has always been blurred, as several plants are valued for both purposes. Among them, Moringa oleifera holds a very special place because its bark, fruits, leaves, nuts, seeds, tubers, roots, and flowers are widely used in traditional practices. For centuries, rural and tribal populations in India have preserved deep knowledge about the dietary and medicinal value of moringa leaves and integrated them into their food habits and healing systems. The tree itself is closely linked with rural life, often found growing near homes, and villagers have perfected clonal propagation and seasonal pollarding to ensure healthy and productive trees. This strong association between the plant and people shows how deeply moringa is rooted in cultural traditions. Beyond India, the tree has spread to Ethiopia, the Philippines, Sudan, and many regions of Africa,Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Florida, and the Pacific Islands, becoming a crop of global significance. In traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, moringa is regarded as an important healing plant. Ayurvedic practitioners often incorporate moringa leaves into their therapies, though much of the indigenous knowledge about their medicinal uses remains undocumented. Tribal groups in eastern and central India have long employed moringa leaves as antidotes for snakebites and scorpion stings, and for this reason, the trees are carefully conserved by local communities. Folk remedies also include applying crushed leaves as apoultice on the abdomen to expel intestinal worms. Soups prepared with moringa leaves are considered highly beneficial in preventing respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, and asthma. Reports from Rajasthan and north eastern [14].
9.Animal Uses of Moringa Leaves
Moringa oleifera leaves are recognized as a rich source of digestible protein, organic matter, and energy, making them a valuable supplement in animal nutrition. They also provide essential minerals, contributing to improved growth and performance in livestock. Although the palatability of moringa forage has been reported to be moderate, its inclusion in ruminant diets has shown positive effects of nutrient intake and productivity. Furthermore, moringa leaves can be fed fresh or processed, and when ensiled with crops such as sugarcane, they enhance he overall nutritive value of silage. Owing to their high nutritional profile, moringa leaves are often regarded as promising alternative feed resource for ruminants.
From the following examples, the positive effects of moringa oleifera leaves on different animal can be see:
1.Dairy cattle: - Moringa leaves have been evaluated as a protein supplement for dairy cows on low-quality forages. Their inclusion showed inconsistent effects on dry matter intake and milk yield, without altering milk composition. When provided as the sole forage (fresh or ensiled) with molasses, moringa leaves performed similarly to low-quality forage supplemented with concentrate.
2.Seeps: - Moringa leaves completely replaced cottonseed cake in the diet of lamb fed low-quality hay, resulting in improved performance. Lamb fed Moringa showed higher hay intake (355 vs. 324 g DM), better dry matter digestibility (70% vs. 60%), and greater daily weight gain (62 vs. 52 g/d) compared to those fed cotton seed cake (Murro et al., 2003).
3.Goats: - Feeding growing goats with Moringa leaves, either alone or mixed with other legume tree leaves, generaly did not change total feed intake (278–289 g/day) or overall diet digestibility (76–77%) (Asaolu et al., 2011). However, including Moringa leaves up to 50% in diets based on low-quality forage improved daily weight gain and digestibility (Aregheore, 2002).
4.Poultry: - Moringa leaf meal (dried and ground leaves) is rich in protein, making it a potential alternative feed ingredient. However, its high fiber content reduces digestibility, especially for protein and amino acids, and limits energy value in poultry diets.
5.Rabbits: -
Fresh moringa leaves: -Fresh moringa leaves are high in protein and contain a moderate amount of fibre. In countries like Benin and Ghana, smallholder rabbit farmers use them as a nutritious forage, especially during the dry season when other feed is scarce [15].
10.Human Consumption of M. oleifera
Leaves Moringa oleifera leaves are considered highly nutritious. The tender leaves are edible and often prepared like spinach, added to soups, or used fresh in salads. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried over a screen for a few days and then ground into a fine powder. This powder can be mixed into foods such as pap, cereals, or beverages to enhance their nutritional value (Makkar C Becker, 1996; C Ellen, 2002).
On a dry matter basis, 100 g of M. oleifera leaves contain about 29±6 g protein, 28±6 mg iron, 1,924±288 mg calcium, 15,620±6,475 IU vitamin A, and 773±91 mg vitamin C. This is about double the protein in milk, half of that in eggs, more iron than beef, more calcium than milk, a vitamin A level comparable to carrots, and a vitamin C content exceeding that of oranges (Wangcharoen C Gomolmanee, 2013). Moringa is the only genus in the family Moringaceae and comprises 13 species, including M. oleifera, M. stenopetala, M. peregrina, and M. drouhardii. According to Gopalan et al. (1989), the leaves contain seven times more vitamin C than oranges, four times more vitamin A than carrots, four times more calcium than milk, three times more potassium than bananas, and double the protein of yoghurt.
Johnson (2005) noted that the leaves, seeds, and pods of M. oleifera are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals. In 100 g of fresh edible leaves, one can find water-soluble vitamins like vitamin B1 (2.6 mg), vitamin B2 (20.5 mg), vitamin B3 (8.2 mg), and vitamin C (220 mg). The same portion also provides fat- soluble vitamins such as vitamin A (16.3 mg), vitamin E (113 mg), along with important nutrients like choline (423 mg), dietary fibre (19.2 g), calcium (2003 mg), magnesium (368 mg), phosphorus (204 mg), potassium (1324 mg), copper (3.1 mg), iron (28.2 mg), and selenium (870 mg) [16].
CONCLUSION
Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree or “miracle tree,” is a plant of remarkable nutritional and medicinal value. Throughout this review, it becomes evident that every part of the Moringa plant, especially its leaves, offers immense potential as a source of essential nutrients, phytochemicals, and bioactive compounds. The leaves are particularly rich in vitamins (A, C, E, and B-complex), minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, and zinc), and high-quality proteins, making them an excellent natural supplement to combat malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies.
The phytochemical analysis of Moringa oleifera leaves has revealed the presence of diverse secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds. These constituents are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. The synergistic action of these compounds supports the plant’s therapeutic use in traditional and modern medicine alike.
Medicinally, Moringa leaves have shown promise in managing several health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and microbial infections. Their antioxidant potential helps neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative stress-related diseases. Nutritionally, the leaves serve as a sustainable and affordable source of essential nutrients, particularly beneficial in developing regions where malnutrition is prevalent. Traditional knowledge and modern scientific research both highlight the wide spectrum of applications of Moringa oleifera leaves — from household remedies and food supplements to pharmaceutical formulations. However, further studies are needed to standardize dosages, isolate active principles, and validate clinical efficacy. Moringa oleifera represents a highly valuable plant with dual potential as a nutraceutical and therapeutic resource. Its leaves stand out as a powerhouse of health-promoting compounds that can contribute significantly to improving human health, promoting sustainable nutrition, and supporting global food security. Continued research and awareness can help unlock the full potential of this “tree of life” for the benefit of present and future generation.
REFERENCES
Prachi Mandave*, Nikita Dhore, Komal Rane, A Review on Phytochemical and Nutraceutical Profile of Moringa Oleifera Leaves, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 11, 4389-4398 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17734616
10.5281/zenodo.17734616
