Moringa oleifera as a Life-Science Resource for Sustainable Development: Environmental Sustainability, Human Health and Global Food Security Perspectives

Moringa oleifera Lam., commonly known as the drumstick tree, is a multipurpose plant recognized for its remarkable nutritional, medicinal, and environmental importance. In recent years, it has gained increasing global attention as a valuable life-science resource that can contribute to sustainable development. This review examines the potential of Moringa oleifera in promoting environmental sustainability, improving human health, and supporting global food security. The plant shows exceptional adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions, including semi-arid and drought-prone regions, while requiring minimal agricultural inputs. Its rapid growth and high biomass production make it suitable for sustainable agriculture and climate-resilient farming systems. Different parts of the plant, such as leaves, pods, seeds, and flowers, contain significant levels of proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive phytochemicals associated with antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective activities. Environmentally, moringa contributes to soil improvement, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and natural water purification through seed-based coagulants. Additionally, its cultivation and value-chain development can support rural livelihoods. Overall, Moringa oleifera represents a sustainable, nature-based biological resource that integrates environmental protection, nutritional security, and human health improvement.