The Miracle Tree in Beauty: Unveiling the Cosmetic Potential of Moringa

Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, or simply moringa, is a plant that has been celebrated for centuries due to its incredible health benefits. Originating from the foothills of the Himalayas in India, moringa has now spread to tropical and subtropical regions across the globe. While much of the attention on moringa has traditionally focused on its nutritional and medicinal properties, recent years have seen a growing interest in its potential for cosmetic applications. The cosmetic value of moringa is vast, encompassing everything from skin care to hair care, making it a key ingredient in many beauty products today. Moringa oleifera is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree that belongs to the Moringaceae family. The tree is known for its slender, tall shape, and it can grow up to 10-12 meters in height. Almost every part of the moringa tree is useful, including the leaves, seeds, pods, flowers, bark, and roots. The leaves are particularly rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the seeds are valued for the high-quality oil they produce. Historically, moringa has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, infections, and digestive disorders. Its nutritional profile is so impressive that it is often referred to as the "miracle tree" or "tree of life." However, its potential in the cosmetic industry is equally remarkable and deserves significant attention. The cosmetic industry has recognized the value of moringa, and as a result, an increasing number of skincare and haircare products now feature moringa as a key ingredient. These products range from facial creams and serums to hair oils and conditioners, each leveraging the potent benefits of moringa. The versatility of moringa allows it to be used in various formulations, whether as a primary active ingredient or as part of a broader blend of natural botanicals. Its appeal lies not only in its effectiveness but also in its natural origin, which aligns with the growing consumer demand for clean, green beauty products.

BOTANICAL INFORMATION^[1]

• Kingdom            :   Plantae
• Sub kingdom     :   Tracheobionta
• Super Division   :   Spermatophyta
• Division              :    Magnoliophyta
• Class                   :    Magnoliopsida
• Sub class             :    Dilleniidae
• Order                  :    Capparales
• Family                 :    Moringceae
• Genus                  :    Moringa
• Species                 :    oleifera
• Scientific Name   :    Moringa oleifera
• Common Name   :    Moringa, Drumstick tree, Horseradish tree, Ben oil tree                                                  

Figure 1: Moringa Plant

Figure 2: Drum sticks

Figure 3: Moringa Leaf Powder

MORPHOLOGY^[1]

Moringa oleifera is a small fast – growing evergreen or deciduous tree usually grows up to 10 or 12 m in height. It has spreading, fragile branches, feathery foliage of tripinnate leaves, and whitish gray bark.

Leaves

The leaves are bipinnate or commonly tripinnate up to 45 cm long the leaflets are hairy, green and almost hairless on the upper surface. The twigs are hairy and green, these are compound leaves with leaflets of 1–2 cm long. Moringa leaves, characterized by their small, oval-shaped, and vibrant green leaflets, contributes to their high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a potent ingredient in cosmetic formulations for skin rejuvenation and protection.

Flowers

The fragrant, bisexual, yellowish white flowers are hairy stalks in spreading or drooping axillary panicles 10 – 25 cm long. Individual flowers are approximately 0.7 to 1 cm long and 2 cm broad and five unequal yellowish – white, thinly veined, spathulate petals, five stamens with five smaller sterile stamens and pistil composed of a 1-celled ovary and slender style.Moringa flowers contributes to their use in cosmetics for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, often incorporated into skincare products for their calming effects on the skin.

Fruits

Fruits are tri – lobed capsules and are referred to pods it is pendulous, brown triangular, and splits into three parts lengthwise when dry 30 – 120 cm long, 1.8 cm wide fruits production mostly occurs in march and april. Fruit contain around 26 seeds during their development stage. Immature pods are green in color they turn brown on maturity. Moringa fruit, typically long and slender with a ribbed surface, is utilized in cosmetics primarily for its seeds, which are rich in oil known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties.

Seeds

Seeds are round 1cm in diameter with brownish semi – permeable seed hull with 3 papery wings hulls of seed are brown to black but can be white if kernels are of low viability. Viable seed germinate within 2 weeks, each tree can produce around 15,000 to 25,000 seeds/year. Average weight is 0.3 gm/seed. Moringa seeds, characterized by their small, round, and winged morphology, are rich in oil and antioxidants, making them highly valuable in cosmetic formulations for skin nourishment and protection.

HABITAT AND GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION^[2]

Moringa oleifera, is native to India. It has been widely cultivated in the tropical and subtropical regions all over the world with a temperature of 25–35 °C. It is often known as “horseradish tree” or “drumstick tree”. It can withstand mild frost environment and severe drought.

CULTIVATION AND HARVESTING ^[2]

Cultivation and harvesting of Moringa oleifera require specific practices to ensure optimal growth, yield, and quality of the plant. Below is a detailed guide on the cultivation and harvesting of moringa:

1. Site Selection and Soil Requirements:

• Climate:

Moringa thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. Ideal temperature range: 25-35°C (77-95°F).

• Soil:

Well-drained sandy or loamy soils are preferred. pH range: 6.3-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Sunlight:

Requires full sunlight for optimal growth.Plant in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.

2. Propagation:

• Seeds:

Direct Seeding: Sow seeds directly in the field at a depth of about 2 cm (0.8 inches).Seedlings: Start seeds in nursery beds or pots and transplant them after 1-2 months when they are about 30 cm (12 inches) tall.

• Cuttings:

Use hardwood cuttings about 45-100 cm (18-40 inches) long and 4-10 cm (1.6-4 inches) thick.

• Spacing:

For leaf production: Space plants 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart in rows 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart.

For seed production: Space plants 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) apart.

3. Planting:

• Season:

Planting is usually done at the beginning of the rainy season.In irrigated areas, moringa can be planted year-round.

• Planting Depth:

Seeds: Sow at a depth of 2 cm (0.8 inches). Cuttings: Plant with about one-third of the cutting buried in the soil.

• Watering:

Water immediately after planting and maintain adequate moisture during the establishment phase.Once established, moringa is drought-resistant and requires minimal watering.

4. Crop Management:

• Fertilization:

Moringa is not heavily dependent on fertilizers, but the application of compost or organic manure can improve growth.

• Weeding:

Regular weeding is necessary, especially in the early stages of growth, to reduce competition for nutrients and water..

5. Harvesting:

• Leaves:

First harvest can be done 2-3 months after planting.Harvest leaves by cutting the branches 30 cm (12 inches) from the ground.

Harvesting can be done every 6-8 weeks for continuous leaf production.

• Pods (for seeds):

Harvest pods when they are mature and dry, typically 8-12 months after planting. Pods should be brown and dry before harvesting to ensure fully developed seeds.

• Flowers:

Harvest flowers during the blooming season. And can be picked once they are fully open

6. Post-Harvest Handling:

• Leaves:

Wash leaves to remove dirt and debris.Dry leaves in the shade or under low heat to preserve their nutritional content.

Store dried leaves in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

• Seeds:

Remove seeds from the pods after harvesting.Dry seeds thoroughly before storage to prevent mold growth.

Store in a cool, dry place to maintain viability.

• Oil Extraction:

For oil extraction, press seeds immediately after drying to prevent degradation of oil quality.

• Processing:

Leaves can be ground into powder for supplements or teas.Seeds can be used for oil extraction or planted for further cultivation.

7. Yield and Economic Aspects:

• Yield:

Leaf yield: Approximately 4-6 tons per hectare per year under optimal conditions.Seed yield: Around 300-500 kg per hectare per year.

• Economic Viability:

Moringa is highly valued for its nutritional, medicinal, and industrial applications.The plant is considered economically viable due to its multiple uses and low maintenance requirements.

8. Sustainability and Environmental Impact:

• Soil Health:

Moringa improves soil health by preventing erosion and adding organic matter through leaf litter.

• Agroforestry:

Moringa can be intercropped with other plants, enhancing biodiversity and providing additional income streams for farmers.

• Water Conservation:

Moringa is drought-tolerant, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions where water conservation is crucial.

METHOD OF EXTRACTION AND ISOLATION^[3]

The extraction and isolation of bioactive compounds from Moringa oleifera involve various methods depending on the specific compound of interest (e.g., oils, phenolics, proteins). Below are the commonly used methods:

A. Extraction of Moringa Oil (Ben Oil) from Seeds

Method: Cold Pressing or Solvent Extraction

Cold Pressing:

Procedure: Clean and dry moringa seeds. Press the seeds mechanically using a cold press machine to extract the oil. Collect the oil and filter it to remove any impurities. Store the oil in a cool, dark place.

Solvent Extraction:

Procedure: Grind the seeds into a fine powder.Use a solvent like hexane to extract the oil.After extraction, evaporate the solvent under reduced pressure to obtain the oil.Purify the oil by filtration or further refining.

B. Extraction of Phenolic Compounds (e.g., Quercetin, Kaempferol) from Leaves:

Method: Solvent Extraction

Procedure: Dry and grind the moringa leaves into a fine powder.Use a solvent like methanol, ethanol, or water to extract the phenolic compounds.Stir the mixture and allow it to steep for several hours or overnight.Filter the extract to remove solid plant material. Concentrate the extract by evaporating the solvent under reduced pressure.Purify the phenolic compounds using techniques like liquid-liquid extraction, column chromatography, or preparative HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography).

C. Extraction of Proteins from Moringa Leaves:

Method: Aqueous Extraction

Procedure: Harvest fresh moringa leaves and wash them thoroughly. Grind the leaves in a blender with water to form a slurry. Filter the slurry to separate the liquid (containing proteins) from the solid residue.Precipitate the proteins by adjusting the pH with an acid (e.g., acetic acid) to the isoelectric point of the proteins.Centrifuge the mixture to collect the protein precipitate.Dry the protein precipitate using freeze-drying or air-drying.

D. Isolation of Specific Bioactive Compounds:

Method: Chromatographic Techniques

Procedure:

Column Chromatography: Prepare a column packed with a stationary phase (e.g., silica gel).Load the moringa extract onto the column.Elute the compounds using a solvent or solvent gradient.Collect fractions and analyze them for the presence of desired compounds.Pool and concentrate fractions containing the target compound.

PHYTOCHEMISTRY OF MORINGA PLANT^[1,2]    

Table 1: Phytochemistry of Moringa Plant

Key: + = Positive

Active Constituents

1. Vitamins:

Fresh leaves from MO are a good source of vitamin-A. It is well established that vitamin A has important functions in vision, reproduction, embryonic growth and development, immune competence and cell differentiation. MO leaves are a good source of carotenoids with pro-vitamin A potential .MO leaves also contain 200 mg/100 g of vitamin C, a concentration greater than what is found in oranges.  Quercetin is found in dried MO leaves, at concentrations of 100 mg/100 g, as quercetin-3-O-β-d-glucoside (iso-quercetin or isotrifolin). Phenolic acids are a sub-group of phenolic compounds, derived from hydroxybenzoic acid and hydroxycinnamic acid, naturally present in plants, and these compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and anticancer properties . In dried leaves, Gallic acid is the most abundant, with a concentration of 1.034 mg/g of dry weight

2. Alkaloids, Glucosinolates and Isothiocyonates:

Alkaloids are a group of chemical compounds, which contain mostly basic nitrogen atoms. Several of these compounds, including N,α-l-rhamnopyranosyl vincosamide, phenylacetonitrile pyrrolemarumine,4′-hydroxyphenylethanamide-α-l-rhamnopyranoside and its glucopyranosyl derivative, have been isolated from Moringa Oleifera leaves.Glucosinolates are a group of secondary metabolites in plants. Both glucosinolates and isothiocyanates have been found to have important health-promoting properties.

3. Tannins:

Tannins are water-soluble phenolic compounds that precipitate alkaloids, gelatin and other proteins. Their concentrations in dried leaves range between 13.2 and 20.6 g tannin/kg being a little higher in freeze-dried leaves. Tannins have been reported to have anti-cancer, antiatherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory and anti-hepatoxic properties.

4. Saponins :

MO leaves are also a good source of saponins, natural compounds made of an isoprenoidal-derived aglycone, covalently linked to one or more sugar moieties. The concentrations of saponins in MO freeze-dried leaves range between 64 and 81 g/kg of dry weight. Saponins have anti-cancer properties

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS^[4]

Moringa, specifically Moringa oleifera, contains various bioactive compounds. One of the primary compounds found in Moringa is moringinine (also known as benzylamine). However, Moringa also contains a range of other chemicals like isothiocyanates, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.

Table 2: List of Chemical Constituents

CHEMICAL NAME	CHEMICAL FORMULA	STRUCTURE
Moringinine	C7H9N
Benzyl Isothiocyanate (BITC)	C8H7NS
Kaempferol	C15H10O6
Quercetin	C15H10O7

ALLIED SPECIES^[2]

Moringa oleifera, known for its diverse applications in nutrition, medicine, and cosmetics, has a few allied species and substitutes that share similar properties and can be used in place of or alongside moringa. These allied species includes,

1. Moringa stenopetala:

Geographical Distribution: Native to East Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Kenya. Similar to Moringa oleifera, Moringa stenopetala is used for its edible leaves and seeds, which are also rich in nutrients and have medicinal properties. The leaves are consumed as food, and the seeds are used to produce oil.

2. Moringa peregrina:

Geographical Distribution: Found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa.

Uses: The seeds of Moringa peregrina are used to extract oil, known as "ben oil," which is highly valued for its light texture and stability. The leaves are also consumed, though less commonly than those of Moringa oleifera.

STORAGE AND HANDLING^[3]

Freshly prepared Moringa powder, tablets and capsules were packed and sealed quickly in polylines paper bag, the packed produces have been stored under two different atmospheric condition i.e., ambient storage condition (28 ± 20°C) and cold storage condition (4°C) for a period of four months. The samples of Moringa products were drawn at the 30 days intervals for proximate nutrient analysis to assess the quality and shelf life of value added products of Moringa.

STANDARDIZATION AND QUALITY CONTROL^[4]

Standardization and quality control of Moringa oleifera products are essential to ensure consistency, safety, and efficacy, particularly when used in food, pharmaceuticals, or cosmetics. Below are the key steps and methodologies used in the standardization and quality control of moringa products:

1. Raw Material Selection
2. Processing and Extraction Standardization
3. Phytochemical Analysis
4. Microbial and Contaminant Testing
5. Product Formulation and Stability Testing
6. Compliance with Regulatory Standards
7. Analytical Quality Control
8. Storage and Distribution

COSMETIC USE OF MORINGA ^[5]

Moringa oleifera has become a highly valued ingredient in the cosmetic industry due to its rich nutritional profile, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids. These components make moringa an excellent choice for various skin and hair care products. Below are some of the key cosmetic uses of moringa:

Figure 4: Benefits of Moringa

1. Anti-Aging Products:

Benefits: Moringa is packed with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, which help combat free radicals that cause skin aging. These antioxidants support collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity.

Common Products: Anti-aging creams, serums, facial oils, and eye creams.

2. Moisturizers:

Benefits: Moringa oil is rich in oleic acid, making it a powerful moisturizer that can penetrate deeply into the skin. It helps to maintain the skin's moisture barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing dryness.

Common Products: Body lotions, face creams, and hydrating serums.

3. Cleansers:

Benefits: Moringa has natural cleansing properties that help remove impurities, dirt, and excess oil from the skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Its antibacterial properties also help in keeping the skin clean and reducing acne breakouts.

Common Products: Cleansing oils, facial washes, and micellar waters.

4. Healing and Soothing Products

Benefits: Moringa’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for soothing irritated or inflamed skin. It is beneficial for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne, where it helps to reduce redness and calm the skin.

Common Products: Soothing creams, balms, and ointments for sensitive or irritated skin.

5 Hair Care Products:

Benefits: Moringa oil is highly nourishing for the hair and scalp, promoting hair growth, strengthening hair, and reducing dandruff. It also helps in moisturizing the hair, making it smoother, shinier, and less prone to breakage.

Common Products: Shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, and hair serums.

6.Nutrient-Rich: Moringa leaves are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which are vital for skin health. These nutrients help protect the skin from oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote overall skin vitality.

7. Antioxidant Properties: Moringa contains powerful antioxidants, including quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and beta-carotene. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which can reduce signs of aging and promote a youthful complexion.

8. Anti-Inflammatory: Moringa has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. This makes it useful in formulations for sensitive skin or inflammatory conditions like acne or eczema.

9.Hydrating: Moringa oil is an excellent moisturizer. It is rich in oleic acid, which helps in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. It can be used in creams, lotions, and oils to keep the skin soft and supple.

ADVERSE EFFECT^[4]

Eating large amounts of moringa might be dangerous. Though the leaves give pregnant mothers plenty of vitamins and minerals, the bark may cause uterine contractions. Lab studies show that moringa could lead to liver and kidney damage, as well as infertility. It can also cause problems with the diabetes medication sitagliptin. Lower blood pressure and slow heart rate because of the alkaloids in the plant. Uterine contractions from moringa bark. Cell mutations caused by a chemical isolated from roasted moringa seeds. Interference with fertility. Upset stomach, gas or diarrhea due to laxative properties.

MARKETED FORMULATION^[6]

Figure 5: marketed formulations of moringa

Moringa oleifera has gained significant attention in the cosmetic and wellness industries due to its exceptional nutritional profile and health benefits. As a result, various marketed formulations of moringa are available, targeting skin, hair, and overall wellness. These formulations utilize different parts of the moringa plant, such as the leaves, seeds, and oil, to deliver its potent benefits. Below is an overview of some popular marketed formulations of the moringa plant.

1. Moringa Oil:

Product Type: Facial oils, hair oils, body oils

Description: Moringa oil, extracted from moringa seeds, is a highly sought-after ingredient in skincare and haircare products. It is rich in oleic acid, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants. Moringa oil is marketed as a lightweight, non-greasy oil that penetrates deeply into the skin, providing hydration and nourishment. It is used for moisturizing dry skin, reducing wrinkles, and promoting hair growth.

Brands: Kuli Kuli, True Moringa, and The Body Shop.

2. Moringa Leaf Powder:

Product Type: Dietary supplements, face masks, and hair masks

Description: Moringa leaf powder is made by drying and grinding moringa leaves into a fine powder. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In cosmetics, moringa leaf powder is used in face masks and hair masks to provide nourishment and detoxification. It is also marketed as a dietary supplement for overall health and wellness, often added to smoothies or taken in capsule form.

Brands: Organic India, Kuli Kuli, and MRM Nutrition.

3. Moringa Creams and Lotions:

Product Type: Moisturizers, anti-aging creams, body lotions

Description: Moringa-infused creams and lotions are designed to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. These products often combine moringa oil or extract with other natural ingredients to create formulations that target dry skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. The high antioxidant content in moringa helps protect the skin from environmental stressors, making these creams and lotions popular in anti-aging skincare.

Brands: Neal’s Yard Remedies, Zest of Moringa, and Tree of Life.

HOME MADE REMEDIES^[6]

Moringa oleifera, often referred to as the "miracle tree," is widely celebrated for its rich nutritional and medicinal properties. You can harness these benefits at home through various simple, homemade remedies. Here are some easy-to-make remedies using moringa for skincare, haircare, and overall wellness:

1. Moringa Face Mask for Glowing Skin:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon moringa powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (optional for added moisture)

Instructions: Mix the moringa powder and honey in a small bowl. If you have dry skin, add the yogurt for extra hydration.Apply the mixture evenly to your face, avoiding the eye area.Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.

Benefits: Moringa is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help brighten the skin and reduce inflammation. Honey provides moisture and antibacterial properties, while yogurt gently exfoliates and softens the skin.

2. Moringa Hair Mask for Strength and Shine:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons moringa powder
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or olive oil)
• 1 egg (optional for added protein)

Instructions: Mix the moringa powder with the coconut oil to create a smooth paste. If using, add the egg and mix well. Apply the mask to your hair, focusing on the scalp and ends.Leave it on for 30-45 minutes, then wash your hair with a mild shampoo. Condition as usual.

Benefits: This mask nourishes the scalp, promotes hair growth, and adds shine. Moringa provides essential nutrients, while coconut oil deeply moisturizes and strengthens the hair.

3. Moringa Tea for Detoxification and Energy:

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried moringa leaves (or 1 moringa tea bag)
• 1 cup hot water
• Honey or lemon (optional, for taste)

Instructions: Steep the moringa leaves or tea bag in hot water for 5-7 minutes.Strain the leaves if using loose tea. Add honey or lemon if desired.Drink warm or chilled.

Benefits: Moringa tea is a great way to boost your energy levels and support detoxification. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, helping to cleanse the body and improve overall wellness.

CURRENT STATUS^[7]

The global moringa market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing awareness of its health benefits and diverse applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. As of 2024, the market is valued at approximately USD 9.5 billion and is expected to reach USD 18.2 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5%.

Figure 5: Moringa Market