Moringa oleifera Lam. as a potential plant for alleviation of the metabolic syndrome-A narrative review based on in vivo and clinical studies

Exploring the therapeutic role of Moringa oleifera in neurodegeneration: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective mechanisms

Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other cognitive impairment conditions in elderly are defined by progressive loss of neurons, based mostly on oxidative stress, long-term neuroinflammation, and compromised neuroplasticity. In the midst of increasing investigation for natural drugs, Moringa oleifera, a plant highly accepted for its high nutritional and phytochemical constitution, has become an active candidate with multi-oriented neuroprotective activity. This review discusses the therapeutic potential of Moringa oleifera in neurodegeneration, based on its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities. The plant's bioactive molecules, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and vitamins exhibit potent free radical-scavenging activity and the ability to modulate crucial inflammatory signaling pathways, like NF-κB and MAPK signaling. Additionally, Moringa oleifera is shown to possess the potential for enhancing neurogenesis, facilitating synaptic plasticity, and neuronal apoptosis protection. Preclinical evidence supports its efficacy in decreasing neuropathological alterations and enhancing cognitive function, whereas initial clinical data suggest a benign safety profile. In spite of these promising observations, additional work is required to confirm its action in human subjects and to standardize therapeutic regimens. This review highlights the promise of Moringa oleifera as an adjunct treatment for the prevention and management of neurodegenerative disorders and points to avenues for future investigation and clinical utility.

Potential of Cinnamomum zeylanicum for metabolic syndrome management: insights from in vivo and human studies

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of risk factors that significantly increase the chances of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications. Since current anti-MetS medications like statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-blockers, insulin sensitizers and diuretics have been reported to cause unwanted side effects, researchers are exploring promising alternatives. One such alternative relies on the potential of spices and condiments, which have a long history of use in traditional medicine. Among them, Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume stands out as a popular spice worldwide for its unique taste, aroma, and delicate sweetness compared to other cinnamon varieties. This narrative review aims to summarize the in vivo and clinical evidence concerning the efficacy of C. zeylanicum against MetS indices. Relevant articles from PubMed, Scopus and Google scholar databases were reviewed. In vivo results suggested that C. zeylanicum preparations (extracts, essential oil, crude powder, bioactive compounds, and biosynthesized nanoparticles) were remarkably efficient in ameliorating MetS indices, while the clinical data were less and with several methodological limitations. Further robust clinical studies are warranted to definitively establish C. zeylanicum as a promising functional food for mitigating MetS, potentially leading to its dietary integration as a natural approach to improve metabolic health. Please cite this article as: Adarthaiya S, Arivarasan VK. Potential of Cinnamomum zeylanicum for metabolic syndrome management: insights from in vivo and human studies. J Integr Med. 2025; 23(3): 218-229.

Unveiling the Miracle Tree: Therapeutic Potential of Moringa oleifera in Chronic Disease Management and Beyond

Moringa oleifera (MO) has gained recognition as a potent natural intervention for preventing and managing chronic diseases (CDs) due to its diverse phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties. Rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids, and glucosinolates, MO exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, cardioprotective, and anti-obesity effects. These properties make it a valuable therapeutic agent for CDs, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. MO's ability to modulate oxidative stress and inflammation-key drivers of CDs-highlights its significant role in disease prevention and treatment. MO enhances insulin sensitivity, regulates lipid profiles and blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and protects against oxidative damage. MO also modulates key signaling pathways involved in cancer and liver disease prevention. Studies suggest that MO extracts possess anticancer activity by modulating apoptosis, inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, and interacting with key signaling pathways, including YAP/TAZ, Nrf2-Keap1, TLR4/NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin. However, challenges such as variability in bioactive compounds, taste acceptability, and inconsistent clinical outcomes limit their widespread application. While preclinical studies support its efficacy, large-scale clinical trials, standardized formulations, and advanced delivery methods are needed to optimize its therapeutic potential. MO's multifunctional applications make it a promising and sustainable solution for combating chronic diseases, especially in resource-limited settings.