Moringa olifera: constituents and protective effects on organ systems

Abstract

Moringa olifera (MO) belongs to Moringaceae family commonly known as the Miracle Tree. It is a versatile tree useful for human beings and animals and also has industrial values. It is one among the richest plant sources of vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K. MO leaves and fruits are used as vegetables in various countries of the world. Earlier studies have found that MO to be nontoxic and recommended for therapeutic use in developing countries. It has been used in treatment of many diseases such as antimicrobial activity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, hypo cholesterolemic activity, cancer, high blood pressure and for cardiac stimulation. It is an antioxidant which is known to be more powerful and a free radical scavenger able to inhibit oxidant and stimulate antioxidant status.