PHARMACOGNOSOSTIC STUDIES ON THE LEAVES OF MORINGA OLEIFERA

Abstract

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Syn.M. pterygosperma Gaertn.) is a small graceful tree used for food and medicinal purposes in many countries. It is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various diseases including fertility control and as an arbortifacient. M. oleifera Lam. has been reported to exhibit antitumour, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and anti-convulsant activities. Macro- and micromorphology, and some pharmacognositic constant for the leaves and powder of M. oleifera, which could be used to prepare a monograph for the identification of the plant, were determined.


Key Words: Moringa oleifera Lam, Horseradis tree, Moringaceae, Macro/micro morphology, Pharmacognostic constants.


Nig. J. Nat Prod. And Med. Vol.5 2001: 45-49