Recent Perspectives on the Pharmacological, Nutraceutical, Functional, and Therapeutic Properties of Moringa oleifera Plant

This comprehensive systematic review examined 45 studies investigating the diverse health properties of Moringa oleifera, a nutrient-dense plant with traditional medicinal uses. The review analyzed research on various plant parts including leaves, seeds, pods, and bark, examining their pharmacological, nutraceutical, functional, and therapeutic applications. Research suggests that moringa exhibits significant anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing key inflammatory markers including NF-κB, COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-6. These effects appear to be mediated primarily by bioactive compounds kaempferol and quercetin. Studies indicate that moringa may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs including doxorubicin and cisplatin, suggesting potential applications in cancer treatment support. The review also examined moringa's functional food applications, identifying both opportunities and challenges in product development. While moringa shows promise as a functional ingredient due to its rich nutritional profile including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, researchers noted significant sensory and stability challenges that must be addressed for successful commercial applications. The plant's bitter taste and color changes during processing present obstacles for consumer acceptance and product shelf-life that require innovative formulation approaches.