Biochemical and Phytochemical Efficacy of Defatted Moringa oleifera Seeds in combating Malnutrition

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a severe health condition affecting millions, especially in developing regions. This study investigates the potential of Moringa oleifera seeds as a low-cost protein source to address protein energy malnutrition. Moringa oleifera seeds were defatted using different solvents (n-hexane, acetone, and a mixture of n-hexane and acetone) and used in formulating diets for PEM-induced Wistar rats. The study analyzed the seeds phytochemical constituents, proximate composition, amino acid profiles, and bioactive compounds through Gas Chromatograph-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). Twenty (2) wistar Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: Group A, control group, B= PEM-induced group, Group C, malnourished rats treated with 15% soya bean based-diet and group D, malnourished rats treated with 15% defatted Moringa oleifera seed-based diet. The results show that defatting increased protein content and reduced anti-nutritional factors like oxalates, saponins, and tannins, enhancing nutrient bioavailability. Defatted Moringa oleifera seed-based diets improved liver and kidney functions, lipid profiles, and protein digestibility in protein energy malnutrition-induced rats. Additionally, the seeds contained essential bioactive compounds with potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings suggest that Moringa oleifera seeds could be a promising alternative protein source for combating protein energy malnutrition.