Characterization and biochemical and nutritional composition of Moringa Oleifera harvested in the district of Bamako, Mali in 2020.

Abstract

With a view to finding an endogenous solution to malnutrition, Moringa Oleifera, also nicknamed "tree of life", has been identified as a possible solution. It is a fast-growing tropical tree that is used by people for its nutritional and medicinal properties. The aim of this study is the biochemical and nutritional characterization of Moringa leaves from four communes in the District of Bamako. A simple random survey was carried out for the choice of study sites. Samples of fresh Moringa leaves were taken from each commune to determine energy, macronutrients and certain mineral elements. Fresh leaves contained more energy (4117 kcal/kg) than dried leaves (4065 kcal/kg). Fat, protein and cellulose levels were higher in fresh leaves (8.0%, 25.0% and 12.9%) than in dried leaves (7.5%, 24.2% and 9.0%). The contents of sodium, magnesium, iron and vitamin A were on the other hand more provided in the dried leaves. The locality had an influence on the content of Moringa leaves in Sodium. The leaves harvested (fresh or dried) in commune VI were richer in calcium, iron and vitamin A than those harvested in the other communes. The chemical constituents present in Moringa leaf extracts were tannins and flavonoids. The consumption of fresh or dried Moringa Oleifera leaves could contribute to the prevention of malnutrition in developing countries.