INTRODUCTION
There are two main burning issues in the world: one is nutrition, and the other is the presence of microplastics (less than 5 millimeters) everywhere. Based on various scientific studies, microplastics have now spread from households to human bodies; microplastic impacts are reaching everywhere, for example, air, water, and soil and even crossing the placenta. This is a worrying situation. Moringa comes up as the perfect solution to address both these challenges.
According to a global report on the food crisis, more than 266 million people in over 47 nations face severe food crises in 2025, a major reason for malnutrition among children under 5 years; 45 million are wasted and 149 million are stunted. This alarming health situation is more challenging for poor and developing countries compared to developed ones.
To overcome this threat, WHO has been emphasizing the use of moringa to counter the ongoing exigency.
Let’s discuss the drought-resistant and multinutritional value of the ‘miracle tree,’ also known as the ‘drumstick’ or ‘sahjan.’ Almost all plant parts possess a remarkable range of nutraceutical and medicinal properties. Leaves, flowers, and pods are usually eaten. It is deeply engrained in the Ayurvedic system owing to balancing the body’s three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Phytoconstituent—
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Fundamental of bodybuilding: protein
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Vitamin-rich sources: vitamins A, B, and C
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Strengthen bones: calcium, phosphorus
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Neural impulse conduction: potassium
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Digestive wellness: fibers
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Haemoglobin formation: iron
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Zinc: RNA and DNA synthesis
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Phytochemicals: amino acids, sterols, tannins, etc.
As a water purifier (removes microplastics)
A recent scientific study found that moringa seed extract, a sustainable flocculating agent, filters out deadly microplastics from water and outperforms its inorganic chemical counterpart known as alum (aluminum sulfate).
Positively charged protein presence in moringa attracts negatively charged particle presence in microplastics and forms large-sized clumps; this process is known as coagulation. Larger particles are easily filtered out.
Advantages
- It is a perennial and xeric tree.
- Unlike conventional water treatment, it is biodegradable.
- The overall process and operation are more cost-effective than other methods.
- Owing to human and instrumental errors, aluminum levels in water can rise; it has been linked to potential aluminum toxicity.
- Sludge is produced during alum treatment, which is not easily disposed of and is a major cause of soil pollution.
- Filters over 98% of microplastics from water.
- Moringa performs better in alkaline solution than alum.
Takeaway
Moringa can emerge as a better option both health-wise and in water treatment plants, especially in poor countries and developing countries. WHO’s advice must be followed and implemented. Research on water purification needs to be continued so that it can be further improved by modifications.
What do you know about drumsticks? What do you call them in your area?
MBH/PS