A PANORAMIC VIEW ON PHARMACOGNOSTIC, PHARMACOLOGICAL, NUTRITIONAL, THERAPEUTIC AND PROPHYLACTIC VALUES OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM

Abstract

Moringa oleifera or Moringa pterygosperma, one of the miracle tree, is widely cultivated throughout India, belongs to family Moringaceae. It is widely used as a nutritive herb and possesses valuable pharmacological activities. Present article describes habitat, pharmacognostic features, phytochemistry, nutritive values and pharmacological activities like anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, hypotensive, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti- asthmatic, anthelmintic, anti-fertility, etc of Moringa. It is one of most rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, milk protein, etc. Present review gives information which is required to prove its medicinal and nutritional importance. Every part of Moringa is said to have beneficial properties that can serve humanity so the whole plant can be extensively studied for further research aspects.