Moringa oleifera Lam.: A Comprehensive Review of Nutritional Value, Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, Safety and Future Research Perspectives

Abstract

Moringa oleifera Lam., usually called the drumstick tree, is a quick-growing plant belonging to its own family, Moringaceae, and is native to the sub-Himalayan region of South Asia. It is now extensively cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions because of its dietary fiber, adaptability, and various phytochemical composition. The plant carries essential bioactive components, which include flavonoids, phenolic compounds, glucosinolates, carotenoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, niazirin, niazinin, and niaziminin. Its leaves are especially rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and antioxidant-associated compounds, making them precious as a dietary complement and practical meal element. Various components of M. Oleifera, such as leaves, pods, seeds, plant life, roots, and bark, have been investigated for their dietary and pharmacological properties. Reported biological activities consist of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, analgesic, antipyretic, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, cholesterol-decreasing, diuretic, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, cardioprotective, and potential antitumor properties. However, an enormous share of the evidence is derived from in vitro and animal studies, even as human scientific proof remains relatively limited. Moringa products are available in fresh, powdered, capsule, and tablet forms; however, their dietary and phytochemical composition may also vary consistent with species, geographical origin, adulthood, processing, and storage conditions. Safety concerns are also vital, especially for focused extracts and non-meal plant elements together with roots and bark. Therefore, in addition, well-designed clinical studies, standardized preparations, excellent-control procedures, and long-term protection investigations are required. Overall, M. Oleifera represents a promising nutritional and phytochemical resource with good potential for functional foods and evidence-based therapeutic applications.