Abstract

*Hanson Chosen Jlateh, Dr. Stephen Monday, Gbi Seyon Jlateh

ABSTRACT

Background: Moringa oleifera is a nutrient-rich and medicinally useful plant, highly prized for its multifaceted phytochemicals with curative potential. Although its advantages have been widely investigated across much of the world, not much research has been conducted on the phytochemical profile of moringa leaves in Liberia, even though they are generally consumed in the local diet and traditional medicine. Determining a phytochemical profile is significant to assist with public health as well as agricultural use. Methods: In this research, the leaves of moringa that were gathered within June and December 2023 from the New Georgia Community, Bassa Town, Liberia, were subjected to standard phytochemical screening protocols for the identification of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, and glycosides. The assays were all run in triplicate to ensure reproducibility, and results were compared with available phytochemical literature for validation. Results: Screening of the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenols, and glycosides was confirmed. Alkaloids were implicated in analgesic and anti-malarial activities, flavonoids in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, saponins in antimicrobial and immune-modulating effects, tannins in wound-healing, phenols in antioxidant protection, and glycosides in cardioprotective functions. Nutritionally, they also had proteins, vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like calcium and potassium, pointing to the leaf's use in fighting malnutrition and overall health. Conclusion: The phytochemical diversity of Moringa oleifera makes it a promising nutritional supplement as well as medicinal plant in Liberia. Evidence warrants the marketing of moringa products, awareness creation, and sustainable production to improve community health and nutrition.