An approach to recent applications of Moringa oleifera in the agricultural and biofuel industries

Abstract Studies on Moringa oleifera have traditionally been applied to medicinal uses and water treatment using its seeds and leaves; their constituents are characterized, and the effects of these compounds against various diseases are investigated. However, the composition of the leaves and seeds has several other applications. Because of this, the complex matrix of compounds present in plants can favor cost reduction and process improvement in agricultural production sectors. The effects of adding M. oleifera leaf extracts to animal supplementation and its use as a biostimulant in flowers and aromatic plants are discussed. The use of M. oleifera by-products as antioxidants for fuel is also analyzed, including a brief description of the current status of crop in Brazil. Therefore, we concluded that a better perception of the potential use of M. oleifera is necessary, considering its local effects, as in the Brazilian semiarid.