Moringa oleifera Lam.: medicinal applications and nutritional composition

In contemporary times, the context of healthy eating occupies a great deal of space, especially in the social media, being propagated as a lifestyle to be adopted. Eating out has grown in recent years due to a demand for practicality, although most meals are still eaten at home. From this point of view, the literature has focused on Moringa oleifera Lam. due to its nutritional and pharmacological potential. Moringa oleifera Lamarck or Moringa pterygosperma Gaertner, is a leguminous plant belonging to the Moringaceae family, popularly known in Brazil as moringa, white lily or okra. M. oleifera contains essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Consuming moringa leaves is a strategy that can guarantee prevention and protection against various diseases, as well as boosting the body's intake of essential nutrients.