Nutraceutical Potential and Processing Aspects of Moringa oleifera as a Superfood

Abstract

Abstract: Plants are used by almost 80% of the world's population for health and healing, and medicinal and aromatic plants account for 25% of all integrated pharmaceuticals. Moringa oleifera is a multi-purpose herbal plant that is utilized as a portion of human food and a therapeutic alternative all over the world. According to studies, it has been discovered as a plant with a wide range of health benefits, including nutritional and medicinal characteristics. It can live on nutrient-depleted soils and is drought-resistant, and it flourishes in wet tropics and scorching dry regions. With a pH of 5.0–9.0 and a minimum annual rainfall need of 250 mm and a maximum annual rainfall demand of over 3000 mm, it can endure a wide variety of rainfall. Moringa is a plant that can aid in the fight against climate change. Moringa’s ability to respond to water stress and its tolerance to it were investigated in this study. Moringa is used in traditional medicine all over the world for a variety of ailments, including skin infections, anemia, anxiety, asthma, blood impurities, bronchitis, chest congestion, cholera, infections, fever, glandular, swelling, headaches, abnormal blood pressure, hysteria, pain in joints, pimples, psoriasis, respiratory disorders, scurvy, semen deficiency, sore throat, sprain, tuberculosis, for intestinal worms, lactation, diabetes, and pregnancy. Moringa oil is prized in the cosmetic business because of its unique properties. Moringa oil is light and easily absorbed by the skin. It's ideal for massage and aromatherapy purposes. Although M. oleifera's nutritional value is lower than that claimed by popular nutritional claims, its abundance in food-insecure areas and wide range of nutrients keep it viable as a nutritious food source for populations in low- and middle-income countries. Malnutrition, which includes undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, and overnutrition, is more widespread than hunger per se and affects most nations around the world. The diversity and quality of food produced and consumed are crucial in reducing the triple burden of malnutrition. In this climate, fruit, vegetables, and nuts are quickly becoming the focus of the nutrition community. Moringa's diet is higher in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) than in saturated fatty acids (SFAs).