Holistic Review on Shigru (Moringa Oleifera Lam.) With Special Reference to Its Nutritional and Therapeutic Dimensions

Abstract

Moringa oleifera Lam., commonly known as Shigru, is an important medicinal and nutritional plant with a long history of traditional use and increasing scientific interest. The plant is valued for its nutritional richness and diverse phytochemical constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic compounds, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds. These constituents may contribute to a broad spectrum of biological activities.
The present holistic review integrates the traditional Ayurvedic perspective with contemporary evidence concerning the nutritional, phytochemical, pharmacological, and therapeutic dimensions of M. oleifera. Available experimental and clinical literature indicates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective potential. These effects have been associated with modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, glucose and lipid metabolism, and cellular protective mechanisms. The nutritional profile of Shigru also supports its potential application as a functional food and nutraceutical resource.
However, the strength of evidence varies among therapeutic areas, and a substantial proportion of the available evidence remains preclinical. Limitations related to variation in plant material, extraction methods, phytochemical standardization, dosage, bioavailability, and limited well-designed human clinical trials restrict definitive therapeutic conclusions. Therefore, further standardized clinical investigations are required to establish appropriate dosage, formulation, efficacy, safety, and long-term use.
Overall, Moringa oleifera represents a promising bridge between Ayurvedic knowledge, nutrition science, and modern pharmacology. An integrated evidence-based approach may facilitate the development of safe, standardized, and scientifically validated applications of Shigru in preventive and supportive healthcare.