Formulation and nutritional composition of moringa flower powder for use in nutritional supplements

Abstract

The aim of this study was to prepare Moringa oleifera Lam. (Drumstick/Sehjan) flower powder and evaluate its nutritional properties. Fresh Moringa flowers were harvested, washed, oven-dried at 45 °C for 24 h, pulverized, sieved and vacuum-packed for storage. Proximate content analysis revealed that the powder contained 29.20 g protein, 7.46 g fat, 5.30 g moisture, 4.10 g ash, 3.71 g crude fibre and 50.23 g carbohydrate per 100 g. It was also rich in minerals with 30.5 mg iron and 160 mg calcium, and vitamin C concentration was 39.60 mg per 100 g. Antioxidant assay revealed its high potential of 78.57% scavenging activity at 0.4 mg/mL methanol extract, which is probably due to phenolic compounds. The presence of tannins was confirmed in the water extract. The results indicate that Moringa flower powder is a protein-rich, mineral and vitamin-rich, shelf-stable food ingredient suitable for functional foods, designer foods and dietary supplements. moringa flower has the potential to enhance the diets of malnourished populations.