**Daun Kelor (Moringa oleifera): The Miracle Tree in Traditional and Modern Medicine**

Abstract

Daun Kelor, also known as Moringa (Moringa oleifera), is widely recognized in tropical and subtropical regions for its exceptional nutritional and medicinal value. Known as the “Miracle Tree,” it has been used in Traditional Malay Medicine (TMM) for centuries to treat various ailments, including inflammation, infections, and malnutrition. This article reviews its botanical properties, traditional uses, phytochemical components, and health benefits, with insights into its potential role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

1. Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Moringa oleifera
Common Names: Daun Kelor (Malay), Moringa (English), Drumstick Tree, Horseradish Tree
Family: Moringaceae
Native Region: Northern India, widely cultivated in Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America
Plant Description: Fast-growing, drought-resistant tree; pinnate leaves with oval-shaped leaflets; white flowers; long, drumstick-like seed pods

2. Traditional Malay Medicine (TMM) Perspective

In Traditional Malay practices, Daun Kelor is considered a versatile herbal remedy used for:

Reducing inflammation and swelling
Treating joint pain (rheumatism)
Boosting milk production (galactagogue)
Detoxifying the liver and blood
Addressing skin infections and wounds
Improving digestion and alleviating constipation

Fresh leaves are consumed in soups or ground into paste for topical application, while dried leaves are infused as tea.

3. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) View (Interpretive)

Although not a formal herb in the Chinese pharmacopeia, Moringa’s energetic and therapeutic qualities can be interpreted as follows:

Taste: Sweet, slightly bitter
Nature: Cool
Meridian Tropism (theoretical): Liver, Spleen, Stomach
Functions (interpreted):
- Clears heat and detoxifies
- Nourishes blood and yin
- Promotes digestion and resolves dampness
- Benefits the eyes (due to its high vitamin A content)

Caution is advised in patients with cold constitutions due to its slightly cooling nature.

4. Phytochemical Composition

Group	Key Compounds	Function
Flavonoids	Quercetin, Kaempferol	Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
Alkaloids	Moringine, Moringinine	Antihypertensive, antibacterial
Glucosinolates	Benzyl isothiocyanate	Antimicrobial, anti-cancer potential
Vitamins	Vitamin A, C, E, B-complex	Immunity, skin, eyes, energy metabolism
Minerals	Iron, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc	Bone health, blood formation, heart health
Amino Acids	Leucine, Isoleucine, Threonine (essential)	Muscle, enzyme, and hormone production

5. Nutritional Profile (per 100g dried leaves)

Protein: ~27g
Vitamin C: 17.3 mg
Vitamin A (as beta-carotene): 16.3 mg
Calcium: 2,003 mg
Iron: 28.2 mg
Potassium: 1,324 mg
Fiber: ~19g

This dense nutritional profile makes Daun Kelor a popular supplement to combat malnutrition.

6. Medicinal Benefits

6.1 Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant

Rich in flavonoids that neutralize free radicals
Reduces swelling in conditions like arthritis and asthma

6.2 Antimicrobial and Antiviral

Compounds like isothiocyanates inhibit bacterial and fungal growth
Traditionally used to treat wounds, skin infections, and sore throats

6.3 Anti-Diabetic and Blood Sugar Regulation

Helps lower postprandial blood sugar levels
Enhances insulin sensitivity

6.4 Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Health

Reduces LDL cholesterol and blood pressure
Contains plant sterols that support heart health

6.5 Eye and Skin Health

High vitamin A content improves vision and supports skin regeneration
Used topically to heal skin rashes and wounds

6.6 Brain and Mood Support

Antioxidants protect neurons
Improves memory and reduces anxiety-like behaviors (animal studies)

7. Common Preparations

Form	Preparation
Fresh Leaves	Added to soup, curry, or stir-fry
Dried Leaf Powder	Mixed with honey, smoothies, or warm water
Leaf Tea	1 tsp dried leaf in hot water, steeped for 10–15 minutes
Capsules/Tablets	Standardized supplements available for easy consumption
Topical Paste	Ground leaves applied to skin for wounds or inflammation

8. Safety and Considerations

Side Effects (Rare)

Mild laxative effect
May cause hypotension in sensitive individuals
Avoid during pregnancy (due to alkaloids in bark/root)

Drug Interactions

Caution when taken with antihypertensive or antidiabetic medications due to additive effects

9. Conclusion

Daun Kelor (Moringa oleifera) lives up to its name as the “Miracle Tree,” offering a powerhouse of nutrients and medicinal properties that benefit nearly every body system. While its use in TCM remains theoretical, its compatibility with detoxifying, nourishing, and blood-enhancing principles makes it a valuable addition to integrative health strategies. With proper use and standardization, Daun Kelor holds promise in addressing malnutrition, chronic diseases, and inflammatory conditions globally.

References -Data Compile by CHat GPT

Fahey, J. W. (2005). Moringa oleifera: A review of the medical evidence for its nutritional, therapeutic, and prophylactic properties. Trees for Life Journal, 1(5), 1–15.
Anwar, F., Latif, S., Ashraf, M., & Gilani, A. H. (2007). Moringa oleifera: A food plant with multiple medicinal uses. Phytotherapy Research, 21(1), 17–25.
Leone, A., Spada, A., Battezzati, A., Schiraldi, A., Aristil, J., & Bertoli, S. (2015). Moringa oleifera seeds and oil: Characteristics and uses for human health. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 16(12), 12791–12835.
Rockwood, J. L., Anderson, B. G., & Casamatta, D. A. (2013). Potential uses of Moringa oleifera and an examination of antibiotic efficacy conferred by M. oleifera seed and leaf extracts using crude extraction techniques available to underserved indigenous populations. International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology, 19(2), 75–91.

Needles & Herb

Sunday, July 27, 2025