Abstract
The tree Moringa oleifera Lam. provides its leaves, pods, flowers and seeds for human nutrition. The chemical profile of all these Moringa products varies substantially, not only among the different parts of the plants used. Cultivating, processing as well as storage conditions chiefly determine the contents of nutrients and anti-nutritive constituents. Anti-nutrients, e.g., phytic acid or tannins, are present in notable amounts and may affect micronutrient bioavailability. Although Moringa oleifera products have been promoted for several health benefits and are discussed as an alternative treatment in various diseases, risk assessment studies evaluating contamination levels are scarce. Recent investigations have demonstrated alarming contents of heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and mycotoxins in Moringa oleifera products, indicating the need for a comprehensive risk assessment and contingent legal regulation of these products. In this mini review, we briefly outline pivotal, food chemistry and nutrition related data on Moringa preparations in order to stimulate in-depth research to close the presented knowledge gaps.
Highlights
The tree Moringa oleifera Lam. belongs to the family Moringaceae, genus Moringa, known as “horse radish tree,” “drumstick tree” or as “moringa.” Moringa oleifera is native to India but is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Central and South America
Products include leaf powder, which accounted for the largest market share of Moringa products with 30%, and leaf tea, oil and seeds (1)
The analysis revealed no significant difference in hemoglobin status or growth parameters between the three groups
Summary
The tree Moringa oleifera Lam. belongs to the family Moringaceae, genus Moringa, known as “horse radish tree,” “drumstick tree” or as “moringa.” Moringa oleifera is native to India but is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Central and South America. Its multipurpose use as food and feed, dietary supplement or even as functional ingredient of cosmetic products has led to an increased cultivation and global trade (1). In 2018, the market of Moringa products was evaluated with USD 5.5 billion globally, which is considerably lower than the market size for algae products of USD 32.6 billion in 2017. The global market of Moringa is expected to rise in upcoming years. Products include leaf powder, which accounted for the largest market share of Moringa products with 30%, and leaf tea, oil and seeds (1). The products of the so-called “miracle tree” are discussed for medicinal usage, it clearly needs a more critical observation of undesired side-effects, and a closer look at the bioavailability of nutrients (3).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
