Description:

Moringa oleifera is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree native to Northern India, often referred to as the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, or malunggay in different regions. It is widely cultivated in South and Southeast Asia for its edible parts, including leaves, seed pods, and seeds, all of which have various culinary and medicinal applications. The tree is also used for water purification, with its seeds acting as a natural flocculant to help purify water. The seeds of the Moringa tree are the primary source of moringa oil (also known as ben oil), which is extracted mainly through cold pressing. Moringa oil is rich in fatty acids, particularly oleic acid (65.7%), palmitic acid (9.3%), stearic acid (7.4%), and behenic acid (8.6%), giving it exceptional moisturizing, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is highly valued in the cosmetic industry for its ability to hydrate skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve hair health. Additionally, moringa oil has an unusually long shelf life, making it ideal for use in beauty products and perfumes. Almost every part of the Moringa tree is edible and used in traditional practices. The leaves are rich in nutrients and often used in soups, teas, and as a supplement. The seed pods (drumsticks) are commonly consumed as vegetables, while the flowers are used in teas. The roots have a horseradish-like flavor but must be used cautiously due to potential toxins. Beyond its culinary uses, Moringa seeds are also used for water purification and in the production of biofuel. With the increasing demand for natural, sustainable products, moringa oil has seen a resurgence in popularity, especially in the cosmetic and beauty industries. This demand has led to African and Caribbean countries with favorable climates for moringa cultivation starting to produce moringa oil for export, providing economic opportunities for these regions. The growing interest in organic and eco-friendly beauty products has further fueled the global demand for moringa oil.