Abstract:
This paper reviews the properties of the most cultivated species of the Moringaceae family,
Moringa oleifera Lam. The paper takes a critical look at the positive and the associated negative
properties of the plant, with particular emphasis on its chemistry, selected medicinal and nutritional
properties, as well as some ecological implications of the plant. The review highlights the importance
of glucosinolates (GS) compounds which are relatively unique to the Moringa species family, with
glucomoriginin and its acylated derivative being the most abundant. We highlight some new research
findings revealing that not all M. oleifera cultivars contain an important flavonoid, rutin. The review
also focuses on phenolic acids, tannin, minerals and vitamins, which are in high amounts when
compared to most vegetables and fruits. Although there are numerous benefits of using M. oleifera for
medicinal purposes, there are reports of contraindications. Nonetheless, we note that there are no
major harmful e ects of M. oleifera that have been reported by the scientific community. M. oleifera is
suspected to be potentially invasive and moderately invasive in some regions of the world because
of its ability to grow in a wide range of environmental conditions. However, the plant is currently
classified as a low potential invasive species and thus there is a need to constantly monitor the species.
Despite the numerous benefits associated with the plant, there is still a paucity of data on clinical
trials proving both the positive and negative e ects of the plant. We recommend further clinical trials
to ascertain the properties associated with the plant, especially regarding long term use.
