Abstract

FROM TRADITIONAL REMEDY TO MODERN SUPER FOOD: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MORINGA OLIFERA

Shraddha R. Jaybhaye*, Komal B. Jaiswal, Ashiwini R. Shelke, Sandip V. Phoke, Sunil S. Jaybhaye

ABSTRACT

This project aims to comprehensively analyze the nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and health benefits of Moringa oleifera, highlighting its potential as a superfood. The study provides an overview of its nutritional and medicinal properties, evaluates its potential health benefits, and discusses its applications in food, medicine, and other industries, while also reviewing its traditional uses, environmental, and economic benefits. Moringa oleifera leaves are recognized as important sources of micro-nutrients and phytochemicals, positioning them as key ingredients for the development of nutraceuticals and functional foods. The presence of key phytochemicals confers essential therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-cancerous, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anti- inflammatory effects. The dietaryapplications of Moringa oleifera leaves have been found to be significant, making it an important candidate for food product development. Food products enriched with these leaves show high nutritional value—such as increased protein, dietary fibers, and important antioxidants—with acceptable sensory properties when used up to 10%. Furthermore, consumption of Moringa oleifera leaves within specific doses was found to be safe. Overall, Moringa oleifera leaves are emerging as a prospective ingredient for developing food products that are both nutritionally rich and therapeutically active.

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