PHYTOCHEMISTRY AND PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF MORINGA OLEIFERA

Moringa oleifera can grow well in the humid tropics or hot, dry lands, can survive destitute soils, and is little affected by drought. It tolerates a wide range of rainfall with minimum annual rainfall requirements estimated at 250 mm and maximum at over 3000 mm and a pH of 5.0-9.0. Moringa leaves have been reported to be a rich source of β-carotene, protein, vitamin C, calcium and potassium and act as a good source of natural antioxidants; and thus enhance the shelf-life of fat-containing foods due to the presence of various types of antioxidant compounds such as ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenolics and carotenoids. In the Philippines, it is known as ‘mother’s best friend’ because of its utilization to increase woman’s milk production and is sometimes prescribed for anemia. Moringa oleifera has both nutritional and multi medicinal activity. Some of the medicinal effects include antimicrobial, antifungal, antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hyperglycemic, antipyretic, wound healing, antitumor, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and for purification of water. Since, Moringa oleifera can survive drought condition and its diet content is superior to vitamins and even than milk in protein content, its nutritional benefit is indivisible. However, the more rigorous study is required to achieve a level of proof required for full biomedical endorsement of Moringa oleifera.