Abstract

Ethnopharmacological use of Moringa oleifera: an updated review

Authors: Arfa Shahzad, Ammar Tahir, Muhammad Kashif, Muhammad Arshad, Amar Nasir, Mazhar Abbas

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.71081/cvj/2024.010

Abstract
Moringa oleifera, commonly known as Moringa, is one the most cultivated medicinal trees in South Asia. It is a member of the genus Moringa belonging to the family Moringaceae. The anti-cancerous efficacy of Moringa is one of the most important research topics in the world. Moringa oleifera contains good nutritional values and serves as an antioxidant, antispasmodic, antipyretic, antibacterial, anti-hypertensive, wound healing, and antiretroviral lead molecule which have been used to improve the activity of immune system. Dried powder of Moringa seeds has a special ability to bind the pollutants present in water. This plant proved its significant activity against different pathogenic microbes. M. oleifera is often known to be a "Miracle Tree" because of its strong immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties. M. oleifera extract contains Flavonoids, which have been used against many respiratory disease-causing viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus and coronavirus. Topical application of ointment, as well as extract, is also helpful in enhancing the wound healing process. It is considered a good diet because it can prevent different chronic diseases such as obesity diabetes and can be used as a medicine against these diseases. Moringa spp. has a good concentration of Vitamin A and other compounds in the extract, playing a good role in the prevention of ocular diseases. Though it has various nutritional, therapeutic, and health promotional effects, still much of its benefits are hidden and are yet to be discovered for the welfare of mankind.

Keywords: Moringa, Importance, Therapeutic Value, COVID-19