Investigating the Therapeutic Impact of Moringa Oleifera Consumption on Human Health: A Comprehensive Review of Evidence-Based Studies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/hhah0784Abstract
Background: Moringa oleifera is widely consumed as a nutrient-dense functional food and has attracted scientific interest for potential metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits relevant to chronic disease prevention and management. Objective: To synthesize and critically appraise evidence on the therapeutic and nutritional effects of Moringa oleifera consumption on human health, with emphasis on glycemic control, lipid profile, blood pressure-related outcomes, antioxidant status, inflammation, and nutritional indices. Methods: This narrative review synthesized evidence from peer-reviewed literature identified through structured searches of major biomedical and academic sources and reference-list screening. Human interventional and observational studies evaluating Moringa oleifera preparations (leaf powder, extracts, capsules, and related formulations) were prioritized, while mechanistic and experimental literature was included to contextualize biological plausibility. Evidence was synthesized thematically and appraised qualitatively based on study design, intervention characterization, duration, and outcome reporting. Results: Across the reviewed literature, Moringa oleifera consumption demonstrated a generally favorable direction of effect on glycemic outcomes and lipid parameters in several studies, supported by mechanistic evidence indicating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Nutritional applications were supported by compositional data and evidence suggesting utility for micronutrient supplementation. However, findings were limited by heterogeneity in formulations and dosing, small samples, short follow-up periods, and inconsistent control of lifestyle confounders, which collectively reduced certainty. Conclusion: Moringa oleifera shows promise as a complementary dietary and nutraceutical strategy for metabolic and nutritional support, but current human evidence is insufficient to support definitive clinical recommendations. Rigorous, longer-term randomized controlled trials using standardized preparations are required.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Yusra Khan, Anam Ali, Fateen Khan, Muhammad Azhar Sherkheli, Aamir Shazad, Nauman Akhtar (Author)
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