Potential of Moringa oleifera seeds and leaves as functional food ingredients for human health promotion

Udechukwu, M.C.; Abbey, L.; Nwodo, U.; Udenigwe, C.C.

Potential of Moringa oleifera seeds and leaves as functional food ingredients for human health promotion

2018

Udechukwu, M.C. | Abbey, L. | Nwodo, U. | Udenigwe, C.C.

Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) is a tropical and subtropical shrub used for horticultural, food and folk medicinal purposes. It has a prospect of use in meeting human nutritional needs and in health promotion. The interest in the application of Moringa oleifera as a functional food or source of nutraceuticals is an indication of the versatility of the plant and its various medicinal properties and use in the temperate and semi-temperate regions. Moringa seeds and leaves are the most utilized parts, containing bioactive compounds that can regulate osmotic adjustment, enzymatic and hormonal activities and various metabolic pathways. Studies showed that they possess the capacity to intervene in human diseases including diabetes, obesity, inflammation, cancer, hypertension and microbial infections. Their biological effects, especially in chronic diseases, are discussed in this review, focusing on the active phytochemicals and mechanisms of action. Further research is needed to identify the physiological targets, specific molecular mechanisms and bioaccessibility/bioavailability of the active components in moringa seeds and leaves. Most importantly, thorough human trials are strongly needed to validate efficacy and risk of toxicity, in order to facilitate their development and incorporation into foods as health-promoting agents.

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