The Potential of Some Moringa Species for Seed Oil Production

Over the last decade there has been increased interest in Moringa seed oil from Moringa oleifera for its potential for food and industrial purposes.  However little research has been done on the oil potential from other Moringa species, which is the purpose of this study.  The other species covered in this study are M. peregrina, M. stenopetala, M. concanensis, M. drouhardii, and M. hildebrandtii.

CONCLUSIONS:

“The Moringa genus has a great biodiversity reserve that should be better explored, particularly in sub-tropical countries. Current knowledge has demonstrated that the efforts applied to M. oleifera have proven its potential as a multipurpose plant, particularly as a profitable source of vegetable oil for food and industrial purposes. There have been recent efforts to find efficient methods to optimize production yields (select adapted varieties, appropriate cultivating methods, spacing areas, fertilizers and irrigating systems) and oil extraction (classical and emergent technologies).

“However, other Moringa species present characteristics that point to similar abilities, providing that they receive equal attention by cultivators, researchers and financial institutions in general. In particular, M. stenopetala has an interesting adaptation to severe drought, of potential interest in a climate change scenario. The same applies to M. peregrina, showing great resistance to pests and diseases. Knowing that field studies take a huge time to accomplish sustained conclusions, even if supported by the knowledge already assembled from M. oleifera studies, there is an urgent need to increase attention about these species. In the search for alternative oil sources, particularly those rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, Moringa species have valuable promise in the years to come.”