European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

MORINGA OLEIFERA: A POTENTIAL NATURAL NUTRACEUTICAL

Dr. Praveen Raghuwanshi* and Damini Raghuwanshi

ABSTRACT

Nutraceuticals are products derived from food sources that are purported to provide extra health Benefits, in addition to the basic nutritional value found in food and may be used to improve health, delay the aging process, prevent chronic diseases, increase life expectancy, or support the structure or function of the body. Nowadays, natural Nutraceuticals have received considerable interest due to potential nutritional, safety and therapeutic effects. Moringa oleifera Lam., also known as the ‘Drumstick Tree’ is recognized as a vibrant and affordable source of phytochemicals, having potential applications in medicines, functional food preparations, water purification, and biodiesel production. Moringa oleifera are renewable sources of Tocopherols (γ and α), Phenolic compounds, β-carotene, Vitamin C and total Proteins, including the essential Sulfur Amino acids, Methionine and Cysteine. The seed protein and fat contents are higher than those reported for important grain legumes and soybean varieties, respectively. Unsaturated fatty acids, especially Oleic acid, Carbohydrates and Minerals are present in the seed in reasonable amounts. The nutritional content of 100 g of fresh M. oleifera leaves are Energy is 64 kcal, Protein 9.40 g, Carbohydrates 8.28 g, Dietary fiber 2.0 g, Fat 1.40 g, Vitamin A 378 ug, Vitamin B1 0.257 mg, Vitamin B5 0.125 mg, Vitamin B6 1.200mg, Vitamin C 51.7 mg, Vitamin E had the highest concentration of 77 mg than Beta-carotene, which had 18.5 mg The predominant mineral elements like Potassium is 337 mg, Calcium 185 mg, Magnesium 147 mg, Phosphorus 112 mg, Sodium 9 mg, and Iron 4.00 mg. Taking into consideration the excellent nutritional properties, The Moringa have been used to combat malnutrition, especially among infants and nursing mothers and it can be an alternative to some leguminous seeds as a source of high-quality Protein, Multivitamin, Minerals and Antioxidant containing compound. Since M. oleifera thrives in arid and semiarid environments, so it may consider as a versatile, foodstuff (a fortified food or a dietary supplement) throughout the year.

Keywords: Ben oil, Antioxidant, Malnutrition.