Drumstick a miracle food of 21st century: A review
Tanu Narwal and MK Rana
The drumstick tree (Moringa oleifera) belonging to Moringaceae family is a tropical perennial, dicotyledonous, deciduous tree widely cultivated in countries, such as India, Pakistan, African countries, South America, Asia and the Middle East. It is known by its numerous names, i.e., Saijan (in Hindi), Shigru (in Sanskrit), miracle tree, horseradish tree, superfood, novel food and healthy food. Its optimal cultivation requires sandy loamy soil with a pH 5.6-6.5 and temperature between 25 and 35 °C, thriving best in tropical or subtropical climates. Celebrated as a nutritional powerhouse, every part of the Moringa tree, including roots, leaves, fruits (pods) and seeds, holds significant nutritional value. Its roots are rich in vitamin C, potassium and iron. The leaves are abundant in protein, fibre, fat and essential minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, sulphur, iron and copper. The fruits are a rich source of protein and fibre, while the seeds contain 52% protein, 22-40% crude fat and vitamins A and C. Moringa also possesses a myriad of therapeutic applications, including the prevention and treatment of various ailments. All parts of the tree, including roots, bark, leaves, sap, flowers, and seeds, provide quick remedy for conditions like stomach ulcers, cancer, high blood sugar, headaches, sore gums and respiratory and gastric problems. Overall, Moringa exhibits numerous medicinal properties, such as anti-diabetic, anticancer, antioxidant, antifungal, antihypertensive, anti-asthmatic, anti-clastogenic, anti-cirrhosis, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects.