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Nutritional and Phytochemical Composition of Moringa oleifera Lam and its Potential Use as Nutraceutical Plant: A Review

Authors

A. Godinez-Oviedo
Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Rancho Universitario, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km. 1, Ex Hacienda Aquetzalpa, Apartado Postal No. 32, Tulancingo, Hgo, Mexico
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N. Guemes-Vera
Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Rancho Universitario, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km. 1, Ex Hacienda Aquetzalpa, Apartado Postal No. 32, Tulancingo, Hgo, Mexico
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CORRESPONDING AUTHOR
O.A. Acevedo-Sandoval
Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Rancho Universitario, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km. 1, Ex Hacienda Aquetzalpa, Apartado Postal No. 32, Tulancingo, Hgo, Mexico
Published on: March 15, 2016
DOI 10.3923/pjn.2016.397.405
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Abstract

Moringa oleifera Lam. is a plant that is known for its nutritional value and particularly for its protein quantity and quality. Due to its nutrient constitution, M. oleifera is used in several regions to treat malnutrition, especially in children. Moreover, M. oleifera contains phytochemical compounds that have important biological activities. Several previous studies confirmed that extracts or compounds isolated from M. oleifera have antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive properties, as well as the ability to protect against hepatic damage. This review discusses the characteristics and potential benefits of M. oleifera nutrients and phytochemicals.

Keywords:

Moringa oleifera Lam, nutrients, phytochemicals

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Godinez-Oviedo, A., Guemes-Vera, N., & Acevedo-Sandoval, O. (2016). Nutritional and Phytochemical Composition of Moringa oleifera Lam and its Potential Use as Nutraceutical Plant: A Review. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 15(4), 397–405. https://doi.org/10.3923/pjn.2016.397.405
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