Evaluation of phytochemical and medicinal properties of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) as a potential functional food

Abstract

Moringa oleifera (Moringa), a perennial deciduous tropical plant belonging to the Moringaceae family, is rich in many bioactive compounds. Moringa is also considered as a remedy to fight malnutrition. It possesses many pharmacological properties such as anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It is possible that the pharmacological properties of Moringa is closely associated with the presence of its bioactive compounds including flavonoids. Therefore, this review will summarize the bioactive compounds and medicinal properties of Moringa, which provides a reference for its potential application as a functional food.