Vol. 7, Issue 12 (2018)

Author(s):
Shamim, Saad Ahmed and Lubna Fatima

Abstract:
Moringa oleifera is indigenous to the Himalayan foothills of South Asia from northeastern Pakistan to northern West Bengal State in India and northeastern Bangladesh, where it is commonly found from sea level to 1,400 m on recent alluvial land or near riverbeds and streams. It grows at elevations from sea level to 1400 m. It is very commonly cultivated near houses in Assam, Bengal and peninsular India. It is a prolific coppice. It is commonly called the horseradish tree, drumstick tree, ben oil tree, miracle tree, and mother’s best friend, known for its multi-purpose attributes, wide adaptability, and ease of establishment. Its leaves, pods and flowers packed with nutrients important to both humans and animals. Moringa has been used as a traditional medicine around the world, for anemia, skin infections, blackheads, anxiety, bronchitis, catarrh, chest congestion, asthma, blood impurities, cholera, glandular, swelling, headaches, conjunctivitis, cough, diarrhea, eye and ear infections, fever, hysteria, pain in joints, pimples, psoriasis, respiratory disorders, scurvy, semen deficiency, sore throat, sprain, tuberculosis, for intestinal worms, lactation, diabetes and pregnancy. In this paper, an effort has been made to review the medicinal properties if Sahajna (Moringa oleifera).