Nutritional Profiling of Moringa Oleifera Leaves: Emphasis on High Bioavailable Iron

Abstract

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, is widely recognized in traditional medicine as a panacea capable of treating hundreds of diseases. This review highlights its extensive use in herbal medicine, particularly in India and other tropical regions, attributing its therapeutic properties to a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. Various parts of the Moringa tree exhibit significant medicinal activities, such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant effects. The increasing global interest in herbal medicine makes Moringa a crucial, inexpensive, and accessible option for quality health services in developing nations. Nutritionally, Moringa leaves and powder are exceptionally dense in essential macro- and micronutrients. They provide high levels of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy lipids, along with significant amounts of essential minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc) and vitamins (A, C, B-complex, folate). Notably, Moringa leaves contain substantially more calcium than milk and more iron than many common foods. This dual high-nutrition and high-nutraceutical profile underscores Moringa oleifera's potential as a functional food ingredient to support general well-being, aid in disease prevention, and supplement essential dietary needs for growth and development across all age groups.