Nutritional Properties of Moringa oleifera

Abstract

Moringa oleifera, a tree that belongs to the Moringaceae family, is native to the Himalayas and is currently cultivated in all tropical, subtropical and semi-arid regions of the world. It can grow in water shortage conditions, but its intensive cultivation with irrigation and fertilization increases biomass yields to over 100 tons per hectare. It is known by different names, depending on the area of cultivation, such as: marango, moringa, resedá, radish tree, drumstick tree, Angela, asparagus tree, pearl tree, ben tree, tree of life and miracle tree.

Numerous beneficial properties are attributed to both health and the environment, as well as a nutritional approach. The various parts of the plant have multiple applications, from the leaves to the seeds and roots, through various products made of them. Due to the above, today, studies focused on Moringa oleifera are increasing. In the south of the State of Yucatan, Mexico, a small company dedicated to the planting of the moringa tree and the production of products based on the leaves and seeds of the plant has been established. For this reason, the need to carry out scientific studies about the properties attributed to the Moringa plant arises.