Unlocking the secrets of a miracle tree (Moringa oleifera) in Tanzania: Integrating traditional therapy with modern science

Abstract

A socio-ethnobotanical survey in Ngh’ongh’onha village, Dodoma, investigated demographic influences on Moringa oleifera knowledge and use. Older individuals (over 46 years, 65.6 %) had substantial knowledge, whereas younger people (18–30 years, 13.6 %) showed minimal acquaintance, primarily acquired through family influence. Women (58.18 %) were mainly responsible for herbal medicine preparation, while men (38 %) focused on cultivation and processing. Knowledge retention was greater among uneducated people (46.36 %) relying on oral traditions, while those with formal education (3.63 %) preferred modern treatments. Experienced individuals (over 15 years, 48.2 %) acted as community advisors, while those with less experience (0–5 years, 10 %) had little involvement. M. oleifera seed oil (15 %) was used to treat fungal and joint infections; seeds/leaves (13 %) to boost immunity; boiled leaves (11 %) for colds and flu; and stem bark (10 %) for joint pain. Other uses included cancer (7 %), malaria/anaemia (6 %), diabetes (5 %), and breastfeeding support (flowers). These findings highlight M. oleifera's broad pharmacological actions and antimicrobial potential. Further research identified bioactive compounds and evaluated the antibacterial properties of M. oleifera leaf extracts to integrate traditional knowledge with scientific validation. Samples were collected from forested areas in Ngh’ongh’onha and analysed at the University of Dodoma. Phytochemical analysis via Agilent GC-MS revealed 53 bioactive compounds. Major constituents included Lanosterol (20.57 %), Germanicol (15.1 %), Phytol (10.65 %), and β-Amyrone (9.7 %). Extracts exhibited antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, with inhibition zones of 16.6–19.8 mm against six microbial strains. This study confirms M. oleifera's ethnobotanical, antimicrobial, and therapeutic potential for pharmaceutical applications.