Moringa oleifera and Blood Pressure: Evidence and Potential Mechanisms

The prevalence of hypertension is increasing worldwide, in particular in developing countries. Anti-hypertensive drugs are commonly used to treat hypertension. However, in developing countries, where access to health care is scarce and the supply system is poor, anti-hypertensive drugs may not always be available. Moringa oleifera is a plant widely found in developing countries, with its leaves, seeds, flowers, roots, and pods used both for nutritional purposes and in traditional medicine to treat various diseases, including hypertension. This review summarizes the evidence, both in animal and human models, about the antihypertensive effects of different parts of M. oleifera, discusses possible mechanisms of action, explores its bioactive compounds with potential antihypertensive properties, and highlights the limitations of its use as a hypotensive agent. Many preclinical studies attribute antihypertensive properties to M. oleifera, particularly the leaves. However, it is premature to draw firm conclusions, as there is a great lack of randomized controlled trials demonstrating its real efficacy. The mechanisms of action and the compounds responsible for the hypotensive effect have not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, further clinical trials showing its efficacy are strongly required before promoting Moringa for therapeutic purposes. At present, Moringa remains a plant with nutritional and pharmacological potential.