The Feasibility of Malunggay

(Moringa oleifera) as Cleaning Agent

Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate
malunggay leaves as cleaning agent. The
malunggay leaves wre separated from the stalk,
pounde using the mortar and pestle until the extract
comes out. The pounded malunggay leaves wre
mixed with baking soda and then water. The
purpose of baking soda is to increase the effectivity
of the product. The product was then placed in a
container. Using the sponge, apply the mixture on
stained areas (kitchen sink, refrigerator wall and tile
wall). After applying the mixture on stained areas,
rinse immediately. Observation was then done.
Chapter 1: Introduction

A. Background of the Study:

Cleaning agent refers to all compositions intended to
be used in connection with and for increasing the
effectiveness of cleaning activities. Cleaning agent
includes but is not limited to hard surface cleaning
compositions (kitchen, bathroom, floor, general
household & glass cleaning compositions),
detergents, dishwashing and food cleaning
compositions, disinfectants and the like. The term
cleaning as used herein refers to those activities
which involve the removal of undesirable residues
from surfaces and particularly includes activities
such as chemical, mechanical and thermal cleaning
activities as well as combinations thereof.

Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) is called a miracle

vegetable because it is not only a food, it is also a
medicine. It may therefore be a functional food. This
plant tree is not only useful but it is the most
nutritional vegetable and a herbal plant. its flowers,
leaves, young pods and roots are being utilized. It is
native to India but has spread to other tropical
regions; in the Philippines, it grows repidly and with
ease in nearly every backyard when desired. Its
leaves contain different amino acids such as
sitosterol and pectinesterase.

This study was conducted because the researcher

wanted to know if the malunggay leaves can be an
effective cleaning agent to household stains.
Through this the researcher will determine the effect
of malunggay leaves to common household stains.
This is why the research study is conceived.

B. Statement of the Problem:

General Problem: This study is aimed to determine

the effect of malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaves on
common household stains.

Specifically it answers the following questions:

1. Can the malunggay leaves be an effective
cleaning agent on common househod stains?
2. Is there any significant difference between the
malunggay leaves and the commercial one?
3. Is the cleaning agent suitable in replacing the
commercial one?

C. Hypothesis:

The malunggay leaves are effective as cleaning

agent.

D. Significance of the Study:

This research study can contribute an idea to young
minds in creating new alternative cleaning agents
derived from any abundant plants. Research studies
like this develops the value of resourcefulness and
open-mindedness to young researchers and if
landed to the right plant, this will serve as an
everyday use to clean common household stains.

E. Scope and Limitation:

This research study entitled "The Feasibiltity of
Malunggay (Moringaoleifera) Leaves as Cleaning
Agent" is limited only to the plant and part of the
plant mentioned. This is only after the effects of
pounded malunggay leaves on common household
stains. Other related matter such as the longevity of
the effects of malunggay leaves is no longer
honored in this study.
F. Definition of Terms:
Cleaning Agent- is a substance, usually liquid, that
are used to remove dirt, including dust, stains, bad
smells and clutter in solid surfaces.
Chapter 2: Review of Related Literature
A cleaning agent conforming to the present invention
may take any form that is suitable for the application
intended and be applied by a way of a suitable
cleaning procedure. Liquid cleaning agents can thus
sometimes be treated as concentrates. The use of a
clening agent conforming to the present invention is
also possible in the form of creams, pastes,
powders, pearls, tablets, etc. application as a
solution, suspension, emulsion, spray, foam, on a
moistened cloth, etc. as well as the extract exterior
presentation depends above all in the appliocation
intended. Mechanical cleaning activities include the
use of forces exerted onto the residues, potentially
including the use of tools such as sponges, scrapers
ang the like and/or potentially including other means
to deliver the forces such as ultrasonic waves, a
beam of solid particles and the like.
Malunggay is known as Horseradish Tree in English.
The odd name stemsfrom the fact that some Brits
noticed the roots of this tree looked nearly identical
to real horseradish and they used it on their beef as
a substitute for the sharp original condiment - the
two are not related at all. Besides the roots, the long
ribbed pods or "fruit" are edible and often used in
Indian curries; though the skinis discarded and only
the pulp is sucked out in what is apparently a rather
messy endeavor. The leaves are also edible and
apparently incredibly nutritious. Today, malunggay is
consumed in huge quantities every day across the
archipelago. It is added to soups and provides
excellent nutritional points for every little money. A
huge bunch of the market today was just PhP 5 or
10 U.S. cents and that's just for reference as we
normally just ask for some leaves from a neighbor, a
house or two down the street. The leaves must be
used almost immediately after picking. Just throw
them into the soup at the last minute or they will
overcook and even more slimy.
Resources: http://www.google.com/
http://www.marketmanila.com/archives/malungg
ay-horseradish-tree
Chapter 3: Methodology
A. Materials:
5 cups malunggay leaves
mortar and pestle
5 tsp. water
container
2 1/2 tsp. baking soda
sponge
B. Procedure:
Pound the malunggay leaves using mortar and
pestle to get the extractfrom it. Mix the pounded
malunggay leaves with baking soda and then water.
After mixing, place the mixture un a container.
C. Testing:
Using the sponge, apply the mixture on stained
areas (kitchen sink, refrigerator wall and tile walls).
After cleaning/applying the mixtures on stained
areas, rinse immediately. Observation was then
done.
D. Observation:
The areas (kitchen sink, refrigerator wall and tile
walls) was then observed if the product was
effective, if it can remove the stains in those areas.
Chapter 4: Results and Discussions
This chapter shows the results and discussions of
my research proposal entitled "The Feasibility of
Malunggay Leaves as Cleaning Agent". It shows the
ratings and comments of people who tried to use my
product.
Trial 1:
Names Areas Comments
Kitchen Sink Refrigerator Wall Tile Wall
Aguelo 3 3 3 It needs improvement
Padilla 3 3 3 It is not effective
Garces 4 3 3 The product needs improvement
Mackno 5 4 5 The product is not effective
Trial 2:
Names Areas Comments
Kitchen Sink Refrigerator Wall Tile Wall
Aguelo 2 2 2 The product is better than the previous
one
Padilla 3 2 3 The product is more effective
Garces 3 2 3 The product is better
Mackno 3 2 3 The cleaning agent is effective
Legend: 1-excellent 2-very good 3-good 4-fair 5-
poor
The researcher made two trials to see if the product
is effective or not. In the first trial, we can see that
the product really needs improvement. In the second
trial, we can see that the product has improved.
Chapter 5: Summary, Conclusions and
Recommendation
Summary:
This research study conducted last October 2008
and fulfilled after January 2009. The first trial was
obtained during the first week of october 2008 and
the second trial revealed results on the latter part of
January 2009. There were positive results showing
that the researcher obtain satisfactory results and
the researcher found out that the malunggay leaves
wiht baking soda can help remove common
household stains.
Conclusions:
1. Malunggay leaves with baking sopda can remove
stains on common household stains.
2. The commercial is still better than the product.
3. There is no significant difference between the
product and the commercial one.
Recommendation:
The study resulted into a smooth yet unsatisfactory
results. The researcher recommend further extended
studies on improving or creating other plant
alternatives. Furthermore, additional readings and
more informations about the study is highly
appreciated.

The Feasibility of Malunggay leaves (MoringaOleifera)

and Chili fruit (CapciumFrutescens) as Insecticide
St. Marys Academy Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City PAASCU Accredited
The Feasibility of Malunggay leaves (MoringaOleifera) and Chili fruit (CapciumFrutescens)
as Insecticide Researchers: 9-Perseverance Submitted to: Ms. Shairille Navarro Date:
March 15, 2013 I. PROBLEM How to create organic insecticide? II. TITLE
The Feasibility of Malunggay leaves (MoringaOleifera) And Chili
fruit (CapsicumFrutescens) as Insecticide. III. ABSTRACT Insecticide making is popular

Pages: 6 (1112 words)

 Feasibility Study
PRODUCTION OF CALCIUM RICH AND PROTEIN PACKED COOKIES FROM MILKFISH
BONES A Feasibility StudyPresented to The School of Accountancy and Management
Centro Escolar University In Partial Fulfillment Of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor
of Science in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management By Austria, Camille
C. Lambengco, Kimberley G. Mallari, Kim Kelly O. Obligacion, Mary Ann A. Oczon, Gladys
Ann I. March 2014 APPROVAL SHEET In partial fulfilment

Pages: 9 (1726 words)

Malunggay Leaves and Chili Fruit as Cockroach Killer

. Statement of the problem: This study lies to find out
the feasibility of malunggay leaves and chili fruit as pesticide (cockroach killer).
Specifically, it sought to find the acceptability of the alternative pesticide in terms of: A.)
QUALITY B.) ODOR C.) EFFECTIVITY/EFFECT Hypothesis of the study:
The malunggay leaves and chili fruit are an effective cockroach killer. Additionally, it has a
high acceptability rating in terms of quality, odor and effect. This product of malunggay

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A Rationale of the Study, Malunggay

A.Rationale of the Study This study is conducted to make use of the important nutritional
and medicinal properties found in malunggay (Moringa Oleifera).Creating an affordable,safe
and effective products and alternatives used daily in our homes.With this research the
researchers are creating cheap products that would not be risking our health but would help
us to improve it. Moringa oleifera is the most widely cultivated species of the genus
Moringa,which is the only genus in the family

Pages: 2 (411 words)

Malunggay
MALUNGGAY MORINGA OLEIFERA Also known as: "Malunggy" in Philippines, "Sajina"
in India, "Shojne" in Bengal, "Munagakaya" in Telugu, "Shenano" in Rajasthani,
 "Shevaga" in Marathi, "Nuggekai" in Kannada, "Drumstick Tree, Horse Radish Tree, Ben
Oil Tree" in English, "La mu" in Chinese. Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera), is a popular plant
known for nutritional value as well as a herbal medicine. Malunggay is a plant that grows in
the tropical climates

Pages: 1 (290 words)

malunggay
Malunggay Moringa oleifera Name: "Malunggy" in Philippines, "Sajina" in India, "Shojne" in
Bengal, "Munagakaya" in Telugu, "Shenano" in Rajasthani, "Shevaga" in Marathi,
"Nuggekai" in Kannada, "Drumstick Tree,Horse Radish Tree, Ben Oil Tree" in English, "La
mu" in Chinese. Characteristics : Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera), is a popular plant known for
nutritional value as well as a herbal medicine. Malunggay is a plant that grows in the tropical
climates such as the Philippines, India

Pages: 2 (510 words)

dota
__ ... 2. Feasibility Study - Essays - Christelyang - StudyMode.com www.studymode.com
Home ChemistryIsalin ang pahinang ito Feasibility Study. By christelyang | Feb. 2013.
Zoom In; Zoom Out. Page 1 of 27. FeasibilityStudy In T.L.E ... Like the pastillas and
polvoron. We know that these ... 3. My Research Proposal: The Feasibility of Malunggay ...
karenblones.blogspot.com/.../chapter-1-introducti...Isalin ang pahinang ito Mar 24, 2009 -
The Feasibility of Malunggay (Moringa oleifera

Pages: 2 (485 words)

Malunggay
Scientific Knowledge Today, scientists are beginning to investigate the traditional claims
about Malunggay. Lets take a look at what they have found. Nutritional Value One aspect
that scientists have examined is the nutritional value of Malunggay leaves. Nutritional
analysis has shown that Moringa leaves are extremely nutritious. In fact, they contain larger
amounts of several important nutrients than the common foods often associated with these
nutrients
 Pages: 2 (445 words)

Things to Know About Malunggay

treatment of prostate cancer and skin cancer. (Ref: Fuglie LJ (2000) New Uses of Moringa
Studied in Nicaragua. ECHO Development Notes #68, June, 2000.
ttp://www.echotech.org/network/modules.php?
name=News&file=article&sid=194) Malunggay - anti-inflamatory: Malunggay has been
found to inhibit inflammation in a controlled scientific study conducted by Philippine DOST
Scientists (Amelia P. Guevara, Carolyn Vargas and Milagros Uy). When an aquous seed
extract of malunggay has been administered

Pages: 7 (2355 words)

Malunggay Oleifera as Cleaning Agent

utilized. It is native to India but has spread to other tropical regions; in The Philppines, it
grows rapidly and with ease in nearly every backyard when desired. Its leaves contain
different amino acids such as cholesterol enzyme. This study was conducted because the
researcher wanted to know if the malunggay leaves can be an effective cleaning agent to
household stains. Through this the researcher will determine the effect of malunggay leaves
to commong household stains. This is why

Pages: 3 (950 words)

Malunggay as Vitamin Capsule

Chapter I Malunggay Veggie as Natural Vitamin Capsule a. Background of
the Study This study determines the effectiveness of malunggay as natural vitamin and to
determine if the malunggay can be a good and safe vitamin. To determine whether a
vitamins or natural vitamins made from malunggay veggie is comperable to the commercial
or chemical products in terms of : 1.1) its taste 1.2) its price 1.3) its effectiveness *This is
also to inform and pursuade the people to buy and to have

Pages: 2 (315 words)

 Dried Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera) Leaves in Ethanol
Production
of ethyl alcohol. However, in the year 2011, a big problem has emerged in the production of
ethanol. There is a lack of irrigated lands that caused the difficulty in ethanol production.
Because of the statement mentioned above, the researchers will conduct a study about
Dried Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Leaves in Ethanol Production.
Since malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaves are scientifically proven as a good antibacterial,
antiseptic and disinfectant and have components that are important

Pages: 27 (6998 words)

Investigatory Project
if the malunggay leaves and chilli fruit could be utilized as a pesticide. And determines the
effect of malunggay leaves and chilli fruit to the cockroach. Statement of the Problem:
This study lies to find out the feasibility of malunggay leaves and chilli fruit as
pesticide.(cockroach killer). 1.Is there a difference on the effect of malunggay leaves and
chilli fruit and the commercial pesticides in terms of: a.QUALITY b.ODOR
c.EFFECTIVITY/EFFECT Hypothesis: NULL HYPOTHESIS

Pages: 13 (2165 words)

Research
Sta. Clara Parish School 2360 P. Burgos St., Pasay City Telefax: 831-8253 * Tel. No. 833-
1238/832-8890 S.Y. 2013 -2014 50 Years of Clarian Legacy: Quality Catholic Education
Research I I. The effectiveness of Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera) as a soap II.
The Feasibility of Paper to become Furniture III. The capability of Talahib (Saccharum
spotaneum) to become a rope \ The Effectiveness of Malunggay (Moringa Oleifera) as a
Cleaning Agent (Biologically- Based Research) Chapter 1

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Malunggay (Moringga Oleifera)

 Hazy Joy L. Dela Cruz II-Science Class OUTPUT NO. 3 I. Background of the Related Topic
A. Malunggay Malunggay leaves was once considered a "poor man's vegetables" but now
it is known as a "miracle tree" or "nature's medicine cabinet" by scientists and health care
workers from around the world because it is loaded with vitamins and minerals that can be
an effective remedy against many kinds of ailments. All parts of the malunggay tree are
usable for nutritional and medicinal purposes

Pages: 9 (3290 words)

Feasibility Study
2. SYSTEM STUDY 2.1 FEASIBILITY STUDY The feasibility of the project is analyzed in
this phase and business proposal is put forth with a very general plan for the project and
some cost estimates. During system analysis the feasibility study of the proposed system is
to be carried out. This is to ensure that the proposed system is not a burden to the company.
For feasibility analysis, some understanding of the major requirements for the system is
essential. Three key considerations

Pages: 2 (352 words)

Malunggay & Makahiya Extract for S.I.P.

with malunggay reduced its length from 1 centimetre to 0.5 centimetres. On the other hand,
we noticed that the wound treated with makahiya reduced to 0.9 centimetres. We varied the
treatment; we did it weekly and shifted daily just to study the difference. We measured the
length and noticed that the result was almost the same as we did it daily. Treating rats is not
easy for we need to handle rats carefully, with the discovery made by the researchers;
theyre willing to extend their help especially from

Pages: 3 (468 words)

Project Feasibility Study

Fawaq International School Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Project Feasibility Study In
partial fulfillment of the requirements in Technology and Livelihood Ecucation (TLE) IV
Submitted by: Danielle Aimee Salaya Catapang IV Universe Submitted to: Ms. Herna S.
Bautista TLE Teacher March 09, 2011 Project Feasibility Study * I. Introduction A. Name of
 Business The name of the caf is HotSpot. B. Type of Business The type of this business is
Individual

Pages: 10 (1629 words)

Feasibility Study
What to Include in your Feasibility Study March 30, 2010, 3:32 am In starting a new
business venture, it is important to conduct a feasibility study to ensure that your business
will be successful. Some things to be included are plan, cost, and sources of funding,
manpower and personnel requirements, market and profitability. In the plan section of
your feasibility study, State clearly the objectives and description of the project. Duration to
complete the project is also included

Pages: 8 (2381 words)

malunggay and spinach powder

Malunggay andSpinach Powder ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The study aimed to introduce
the combination of Malunggay and Spinach powder inorder to make a natural, nutritious and
practical supplement for all especially to thosehealth-conscious individuals.Nevertheless,
this study wouldnt be possible without the everlasting love, care andassistance from the
researchers family, who supported her in the procurement of the muchneeded logistics and
references, cultivated and propagated the Malunggay

Pages: 3 (726 words)

Malunggay as an effective cooking oil

THE EFFECTIVITY OF MALUNGGAY (Moringa Oleifera) LEAVES EXTRACT AS AN
ALTERNATIVE COOKING OIL (Group 4) Louiejabe Yap Nuniala Justine Aligor Agustin John
Patrick Bagadiong Cruz Mitzi Louise Hisoller Hojilla John Patrick S. Caparoso Bianca Renee
Valaquio Bendero 7-Galileo Galilei December 2013 Mr. Abraham Saturnino C. Barrientos
Table of Contents I. Introduction Background of the Study................................................... 3
Statement of the Problem

Pages: 4 (916 words)

 Malunggay can be used as water purifier
Malunggay can be used as water purifier By Helen Flores (The Philippine Star) | Updated
July 12, 2008 - 12:00am MANILA, Philippines Aside from its potential as biofuel feedstock,
the seed of moringa, locally known as malunggay, could also be used for treating water, a
Filipino scientist said yesterday. Dr. Isidro Sia, a professor of the Department of
Pharmacology and Toxicology of the University of the Philippines-Manila, said moringa
seeds have been found to be one

Pages: 10 (1707 words)

Malunggay as Ointment
Malunggay as Ointment The Malunggay leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant
source of Vitambeta-carotein C, protein, iron and potassium. The leaves are cooked and
used like spinach. In addition to being used fresh as a substitute for spinach, its leaves are
commonly dried and crushed into a powder, and used in soups and sauces. Ointment is one
of the medicine that can cure wounds. Malunggay grows very wildly in hot tropical

Pages: 1 (274 words)

Feasibility Study
What is a feasibility study? A feasibility study is an evaluation and analysis of the
potential of the proposed project which is based on extensive investigation and research to
support the process of decision making (Wikipedia.com). Without the use of Wikipedia
defining feasibility study would fall on understanding the two words it
compresses. Feasibility or the root word feasible means a degree to which something can
be achieved or put into the effect, therefore something

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Fea Sibility Study

A Project Feasibility Study of Manufacturing a Squash Malunggay Maja Corn
INTRODUCTION Maja Blanca has been one of the Filipinos traditional holiday dessert, they
usually served this during fiestas and during the holidays, especially Christmas. It exist in the
 Philippines through the Spanish influence. A variety of desserts originated in Spain that was
adapted by us, Filipinos, is an evident to be considered why maja blanca also became
popular. In the Philippines, maja blanca

Fresh malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaves are rich in vitamins A, B, C,

calcium, potassium, protein and iron. Studies showed that malunggay gives a
feeling of wellness and at the same time balances sugar and
cholesterol content in the body. Leaves can be prescribed to treat anemia.
Dubbed as miracle vegetable or the power gulay, malunggay is now being
processed as food fortificant, food supplement, and even potent medicine.
Seeing this great agribusiness potential of malunggay, Agriculture Secretary
Arthur C. Yap urged the agriculture stakeholders to increase the production
and diversify the uses of this vegetable and thereby help in fighting hunger
and malnutrition especially in the rural areas.
The Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) included malunggay in its
Indigenous Plants for Health and Wellness Program and identified the
development of malunggay as priority project.
For its part, the DA RFU 5, through its research arm, the Bicol Integrated
Agricultural Research Center (BIARC), is developing and piloting promising
technologies for the banner commodities of Bicol. One of which is malunggay.
The DA-5 Regional Executive Director Dr. Jose V. Dayao had also instructed
the six Research Outreach Stations (ROS) in Bicol to facilitate the propagation
of planting materials in support to the program.
Developing food products from malunggay
Under the on-going DA-BAR funded project entitled Development, On-Farm
Demonstration and Piloting of Promising Value-adding Technologies for
Export Potential and Banner Commodities of Bicol, BIARC has found new
ways to integrate malunggay in various food preparations as well as packaged
it into different product lines. These include malunggay tea, instant juice,
malunggay powder, polvoron, yema, cookies, noodles, pastillas, and the
malunggay surprise.
Malunggay leaves were separated from the stalks and were either oven dried
or sun dried. They call these dried leaves as malunggay tea. The pounded
dried leaves of malunggay, on the other hand are turned into moringa
powder which can be mixed into common Filipino delicacies such as soups,
sauces, instant noodles, polvoron, cookies, and chocolates as an added
ingredient. In this way, children who are not very fond of vegetables get to
ingest essential nutrients present in malunggay without knowing it. This newly
developed products has a shelf life of six months at the most depending on
the packaging materials used.
BIARC is now on the process of establishing the nutrient facts of these
products. They are also conducting further trials to improve its shelf life and
enhance the packaging and presentation of the products.

Enhancing the role of R&D and technology commercialization

This initiative of BIARC is being supported by BAR under its National
Technology Commercialization Program (NTCP), together with the GMA High
Value Commercial Crops (HVCC) Program of the Department of Agriculture
RFU 5.
Through the help of the NTCP, BIARC was able to create awareness
regarding the importance of this valuable commodity and at the same time
promote the products developed from malunggay, Dr. de los Santos said.
NTCP, one of BARs flagship programs, is aimed at facilitating
the commercialization of newly developed technologies for maximum
utilization. Technologies shall be strategically placed and transferred to areas
and communities that needed them most. This strategy shall enhance
technology transfer as well as realize the impact of research results.

The processing technologies for Moringa developed by BIARC are a prime

example of technologies generated by DA-BAR supported projects which are
already ripe for commercialization, she added. This she considers a big role
in encouraging the pursuit of new production and processing technologies for
malunggay products.
BIARC participated in local and international trade fairs,
technology demonstrations, technology fora, trainings and seminars that draw
a lot of interested participants. The group also conducted sensory evaluation
and consumer acceptability trials as part of their promotional and marketing
strategies. They did market matching, domestic marketing trials, and export
marketing trials.
The malunggay industry is still very young in the Philippines. Dr. delos Santos
envisions that after the implementation of the project, appropriate POTs can
be developed and new products are identified from malunggay.
In addition, expanded markets for these products shall be developed as
additional source of livelihood in the countryside. At the same time, majority of
the people in the community will utilize malunggay as a cheap source of
nutrition and she ended.
Source: Ma. Eloisa E. Hernandez and Lovella P. Guarin- bar.gov.ph, October-
December 2008 Volume 10 Issue No. 4
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Effect of Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Capsules on Lipid and
Glucose Levels Mark Anthony S. Sandoval1,2 and Cecilia A.
Jimeno1,3 1Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and
Metabolism, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine and
Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
2Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of
the Philippines Manila 3Department of Pharmacology, College
of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila Introduction
Moringa oleifera Lam., locally known as malunggay, is widely
consumed as a vegetable in the Philippines. The leaves are
usually added in common viands, and the fruits or pods are
eaten as a vegetable dish. It is known as horse radish tree or
drumstick tree in other English-speaking countries. There are
popular but yet unproven claims that malunggay is used for the
treatment of high cholesterol and diabetes mellitus. There are,
however, several animal studies that have shown positive
effects. Mehta et al. in 2003 have shown that the
administration for 120 days of M. oleifera fruit, like lovastatin,
was able to lower the serum cholesterol, phospholipids,
triglyceride, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density
lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol ratio and atherogenic index, and
was able to increase the high density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio
compared to the corresponding control groups in rabbits. One
proposed mechanism of action is that M. oleifera promotes
gastrointestinal excretion of cholesterol as M. oleifera-treated
rabbits had higher levels of cholesterol in their feces.1 The
crude extract of the leaves of M. oleifera has also been shown
to possess hypocholesterolemic effects in highfat diet fed
wistar rats. If given for 30 days, the extract was able to
decrease the high-fat diet-induced increases in serum
cholesterol levels by 14.35%.2 The leaves of M. oleifera have
also been shown to decrease cholesterol levels by 50% in
hypercholesterol-fed rabbits after 12 weeks of treatment. 3
Aside from cholesterol levels, M. oleifera has been
demonstrated to improve glucose tolerance among rats. It was
demonstrated that M. oleifera leaves significantly improved
glucose tolerance after a 2-g/kg glucose administration in
nondiabetic rats and in rats induced to develop diabetes. 4 At
least four human clinical studies have been carried out already
in the Philippines but these investigated the effects of
malunggay on breastmilk volume, prolactin levels, and weight
gain of infants of mothers given malunggay.5,6,7,8 None of
these studies dealt with the effects on cholesterol levels. A
total of 126 Filipino mothers have been included in these four
studies. Malunggay was given at a dose ranging from 250 mg of
the leaves twice a day to as much as 700 mg three times a day.
Duration of administration of malunggay ranged from as short
as 3 days to as long as 4 months. Only the study by Co et al. in
2002, which administered 250 mg of the malunggay capsule 3x
a day for 14 days, reported an adverse event. 8 There was one
subject in the malunggaytreated group who reported
developing tinnitus but this was ORIGINAL ARTICLE Effect of
Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Capsules on Lipid and Glucose
Levels VOL. 47 NO. 3 2013 ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA 23 said to
be not directly related to the administration of malunggay.8 All
the three other studies did not demonstrate the occurrence of
any adverse effects. The monitoring of adverse events in these
studies was performed by asking for the development of any
abnormal symptoms, and did not include the performance of
any laboratory test. This study was proposed to fill the
knowledge gap regarding the metabolic effect, specifically on
the lipid profile and glucose levels, of the widely cultivated and
easily available malunggay in humans. Since clinical studies did
not find any significant adverse effects in lactating women, it
would be acceptable to perform a phase II clinical trial involving
humans with dyslipidemia. This study compared malunggay
with placebo, but did not compare it with statins, the standard
drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia. Since it would be
unethical to withhold statin therapy in patients for whom it is
recommended (i.e., those with high cardiovascular risk), this
study included dyslipidemic patients with low cardiovascular
risk in whom statin therapy only may be recommended (i.e., no
established atherosclerosis but have LDL >100 mg/dL or total
cholesterol >190 mg/dL and at least three cardiovascular risk
factors) or not recommended ( i.e., those with LDL >100 mg/dL
or total cholesterol >190 mg/dL but who have less than three
cardiovascular risk factors). These cut-off values were based on
the Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of
Dyslipidemia in the Philippines published in 2005.9 Research
Question What is the effect of malunggay leaf capsules on the
fasting LDL cholesterol levels of adult Filipinos with baseline
serum LDL >100 mg/dL and low cardiovascular risk? Objectives
General Objective To determine the effect of malunggay leaf
capsules on the fasting levels of LDL cholesterol among adult
Filipinos with baseline serum LDL >2.6 mmol/L (>100 mg/dL)
and low cardiovascular risk. Specific Objectives Primary Efficacy
Outcome Measure 1. To determine if there are any significant
differences in the change in mean fasting LDL levels from
baseline and after a 30-day treatment period between the
malunggay and placebo groups. Secondary Efficacy Outcome
Measures 2. To determine if there are any significant
differences in the change in mean weight, body mass index
(BMI), fasting blood sugar, serum glucose 2 hours after a 75-
gram oral glucose load, HDL and triglycerides from baseline and
after a 30-day treatment period between the malunggay and
placebo groups. Secondary Safety Outcome Measures 3. To
determine if there are any significant differences in the change
in the results of complete blood count, creatinine and alanine
aminotransferase (ALT) from baseline and after the 30-day
treatment period in the malunggay and placebo groups. 4. To
determine whether there are any significant differences in the
occurrence of adverse events by symptom questioning
between the malunggay and placebo groups. Methods Sample
Size In order to detect a decrease of 0.22 mmol/L (5.79 mg/dL)
in the LDL cholesterol in the subjects to be given malunggay
versus a 0.02 mmol/L (0.77 mg/dL) rise in the LDL cholesterol
levels (standard deviation 0.35 mmol/L) in those given placebo
with study power () of 0.80 and level of significance () of
0.05, the minimum sample size for each treatment arm would
be 33 subjects to reject the null hypothesis. These expected
results were taken from the hypocholesterolemic effects of a
dietary fiber supplement as studied by Hunninghake et al. 10
This study involved a similar subject population with this
investigation. It is assumed that if ever malunggay would have
an effect on cholesterol levels, it would at least be because of
its fiber content. There are no clinical studies on the effects of
malunggay on cholesterol levels from which expected results
can be taken. To allow for 20% drop-out rate, the final sample
size per group was [33 x 1.2] = 39.6 or 40 subjects. Screening of
Subjects This study was carried out at the Philippine General
HospitalMedical Research Laboratory. The targeted
population for screening consisted of Filipinos, either male or
nonpregnant female, aged 18 to 55 years old with no known
diabetes, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease nor
peripheral arterial disease. They were selected by purposive
sampling by announcements and invitations in the workplace
and in the community. Potential participants were screened by
the clinical investigator with a medical interview, physical
examination, and laboratory testing for fasting blood sugar
(FBS) and lipid profile. Inclusion and exclusion criteria
Participants were eligible for inclusion in this study if they have
the following characteristics: 1. 18 to 55 years old 2. Fasting
serum LDL >2.6 mmol/L (>100 mg/dL) Effect of Malunggay
(Moringa oleifera) Capsules on Lipid and Glucose Levels 24
ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA VOL. 47 NO. 3 2013 3. No known
history of diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease,
cerebrovascular disease, nor peripheral arterial disease. 4. Gave
informed consent for inclusion in the study. Participants were
not eligible for inclusion in this study if they had any of the
following characteristics: 1. Serum LDL 55 years, proteinuria,
albuminuria and body mass index >25 kg/m2. Effect of
Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Capsules on Lipid and Glucose
Levels 26 ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA VOL. 47 NO. 3 2013 Table
2. Efficacy and safety outcome measures in the malunggay and
placebo groups at baseline and after 30 days Variable
MALUNGGAY GROUP n=33 PLACEBO GROUP n=35 P value
comparing the differences Baseline After study period
Difference (Final-Baseline) Baseline After Study Period
Difference (Final-Baseline) Primary Efficacy Outcome LDL
cholesterol (mg/dL) 136.86 27.54 123.10 46.44 -13.76
47.55 137.73 26.18 118.45 31.53 -19.28 28.29 0.564
Secondary Efficacy Outcomes Weight (kg) 56.89 11.81 56.96
11.24 0.07 1.37 60.58 11.87 60.38 11.29 -0.20 1.77
0.508 Body Mass Index (kg/m2) 23.09 4.13 23.10 3.68 0.01
0.56 24.60 4.47 24.49 3.65 -0.11 0.65 0.425 Fasting Blood
Sugar (mg/dL) 75.41 12.82 82.70 16.48 7.28 14.66 75.25
14.68 77.84 18.78 2.58 17.07 0.232 Serum glucose 2hrs
after 75g oral glucose (mg/dL) 96.77 21.08 93.48 26.85 -3.29
28.37 99.98 28.87 91.76 23.32 -8.21 3.37 0.462 Total
cholesterol (mg/dL) 204.28 32.05 209.38 53.25 5.10 43.33
205.74 33.38 194.61 39.25 -11.13 35.25 0.100 HDL
cholesterol (mg/dL) 51.34 12.21 51.86 12.12 0.51 7.51
54.64 14.56 51.00 13.90 -3.64 10.27 0.064 Triglycerides
(mg/dL) 113.96 46.11 115.70 43.51 1.74 38.84 105.34
38.41 106.78 51.82 1.44 45.38 0.977 Secondary Safety
Outcomes Hemoglobin (g/L) 137.58 12.79 136.09 14.93 -
1.48 6.44 139.66 14.88 138.29 13.19 -1.36 7.96 0.946
Hematocrit (%) 0.42 0.04 0.42 0.05 0.00 0.02 0.44 0.04
0.43 0.04 -0.01 0.03 0.207 White Blood Cell count (x 109/L)
6.61 1.48 7.01 1.66 0.40 2.12 7.31 1.96 7.23 1.66 -0.08
2.23 0.369 Platelet count (x109/L) 302.24 55.68 293.03
69.77 -9.21 61.99 312.09 79.65 312.15 55.58 0.06 57.24
0.530 Crea(umol/L) 63.62 14.22 66.85 20.81 3.24 12.63
65.67 18.69 66.90 18.95 1.23 12.11 0.494 ALT (U/L) 26.93
23.15 22.31 31.21 -4.61 21.88 20.19 17.88 19.60 25.60
-0.59 18.76 0.846 Table 3. Adverse events reported in the
malunggay and placebo groups Adverse Event Malunggay
Placebo P-value n % n % Fever 2 6.25 4 11.76 0.4361 Perceived
weight loss 5 15.63 1 2.94 0.0732 Loss of appetite 1 3.13 2 5.88
0.5909 Headache 5 15.63 8 23.53 0.4197 Blurring of vision 2
6.25 0 0.00 0.1388 Dizziness 3 9.38 6 17.65 0.3277 Vomiting 0
0.00 1 2.94 0.3283 Abdominal pain 2 6.25 2 5.88 0.9501
Diarrhea 2 6.25 2 5.88 0.9501 Flatulence 3 9.38 6 17.65 0.3277
Difficulty of breathing 2 6.25 4 11.76 0.4361 Fatigue 2 6.25 2
5.88 0.9501 Cough 5 15.63 6 17.65 0.8256 Chest pain 3 9.38 2
5.88 0.5920 Palpitations 2 6.25 1 2.94 0.5190 Edema 0 0.00 1
2.94 0.3283 Frequent urination 9 28.13 4 11.76 0.0949
Decrease in urine output 1 3.13 0 0.00 0.2990 Change in urine
color 5 15.63 2 5.88 0.1989 Dysuria 1 3.13 0 0.00 0.2990 Body
aches 2 6.25 4 11.76 0.4361 Joint pains 2 6.25 6 17.65 0.1562
Breast enlargement 1 3.13 0 0.00 0.2990 Breast pain 0 0.00 1
2.94 0.3283 Loss of libido 1 3.13 0 0.00 0.2990 Menstrual
irregularities 0 0.00 1 2.94 0.3283 Itchiness 1 3.13 1 2.94 0.9653
Rashes 1 3.13 1 2.94 0.9653 For the secondary outcome
measures (Table 2), there were no significant differences in the
change in body weight, body mass index, fasting blood sugar,
serum glucose 2 hours after a 75-gram oral glucose load, total
cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides between the malunggay and
placebo groups. For the secondary safety outcome measures
(Table 2), there were no significant differences in the changes
in the serum creatinine and ALT levels and in the complete
blood count between the malunggay and placebo groups. For
the self-reported adverse events (Table 3), there were no
significant differences in the occurrence of these events
between the malunggay and placebo groups. There were no
serious adverse events reported. The most commonly reported
adverse event was frequent urination in the malunggay group,
and headache in the placebo group. Even if malunggay is a
known galactogogue, there were no reported episodes of
galactorrhea in any of the participants of this study. Discussion
This study has shown that malunggay leaf capsules are similar
to placebo with respect to their effect on the LDL cholesterol
levels (as the primary efficacy outcome measure) and on
weight, BMI, fasting blood sugar, serum glucose 2 hours after a
75-gram oral glucose load, total cholesterol, HDL and
triglycerides (as secondary efficacy outcome measures). What
would explain the similar decrease in LDL cholesterol in the two
groups is that dietary advice on a low fat diet was given to all
participants upon randomization. Even if beneficial effects on
lipids and blood sugar levels have been demonstrated in animal
studies, the same conclusions were not demonstrated in this
clinical trial. No significant adverse events occurred in this
study. Likewise, the occurrence of adverse events was similar to
the rates of occurrence in those given placebo. Thus, this study
validates the findings in other clinical studies of malunggay leaf
capsules that there are no associated adverse effects.5,6,7,8
The previous clinical studies on malunggay dealing with
breastmilk production only involved asking for symptoms to
determine any adverse events. Here we have also checked for
any adverse events involving the blood, kidneys, and Effect of
Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Capsules on Lipid and Glucose
Levels VOL. 47 NO. 3 2013 ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA 27 liver by
checking the complete blood count, serum creatinine, and
serum ALT levels, respectively. The participants in this study
had a relatively low level of serum LDL at baseline since our cut-
off for inclusion was 2.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL). A study may be
done to see whether malunggay would be effective in lowering
serum LDL if the baseline level was higher. Since the lipid-
lowering effect of malunggay has not been proven in humans, it
might be unethical to study its effects if given alone among
those with high cardiovascular risk for whom lipid-lowering
therapy is indicated. Compliance to the patients dietary intake
and physical activity was not measured in this study and is one
of its limitations. Also, we could have prescribed a longer
treatment duration to show lipid-lowering effects since 30 days
might not be enough time to demonstrate any results.
However, several studies using plant products have showed
significant effects on lipid levels in as little as 4 weeks. These
clinical studies made use of beta glucan and plant stanol
esters,11 plant sterol esters,12,13 St. Johns Wort,14 and an
herbal powder mixture composed of Indian plants locally
known as guargum, methi, tundika, and meshasringi. 15
Conclusion Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaf capsules given at
a dose of 350 mg per capsule, 2 capsules three times a day for
30 days lowered LDL cholesterol to the same degree as placebo
among adults with baseline serum LDL >2.6 mmol/L (>100
mg/dL) and low cardiovascular risk. The effects of malunggay
and placebo were also similar with respect to the secondary
efficacy outcome measures (weight, body mass index, fasting
blood sugar, serum glucose 2 hours after a 75 gram oral glucose
load, total cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides), and the
secondary safety outcome measures (serum creatinine and ALT,
and complete blood count). Occurrence of adverse events was
also similar between the malunggay and placebo groups. There
were no significant adverse events associated with intake of
malunggay capsules. _________________ Acknowledgments
This study has been supported by a Philippine Lipid and
Atherosclerosis Society (PLAS)-Pfizer research grant. We are
thankful to the Department of Industrial Pharmacy, College of
Pharmacy, University of the Philippines Manila for the
manufacture of placebo capsules; to Ms. Rhoda Montemayor
and Ms. Hazel Jayohoy of the Medical Research Laboratory,
Philippine General Hospital for the performance of the
laboratory assays; and to Mr. Mark Javellosa and Mr. Kevin Carl
Santos of the School of Statistics of the University of the
Philippines Diliman for the statistical analysis. ___________
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