Moringa oleifera in South Africa : a review on its production, growing conditions and consumption as a food source
Date
2021-03-29
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
ASSAf
Abstract
Moringa oleifera (moringa) trees excel mainly in tropical and sub-tropical regions and are known to thrive
in a wide range of soil types. The recent rise in moringa production in various agro-ecological zones of
South Africa could be attributed to its multiple benefits, including nutritional and medicinal properties.
Since its introduction as a cultivated crop, there has been a growing interest from farmers, researchers
and government on various aspects of the tree such as its morphology, chemistry, growing conditions,
production, processing and utilisation. We reviewed the work done on moringa within the South African
context in terms of production, growing conditions and cultivation practices. The involvement of
government departments on moringa-oriented activities and its consumption as food were also reviewed.
In addition, gaps were outlined on its utilisation that need to be addressed, and recommendations provided
on what could be done to ensure successful production of moringa in South Africa.
Description
CITATION: Mashamaite, C. V. et al. 2021. Moringa oleifera in South Africa : a review on its production, growing conditions and consumption as a food source. South African Journal of Science, 117(3/4):#8689, doi:10.17159/sajs.2021/8689.
The original publication is available at https://sajs.co.za
The original publication is available at https://sajs.co.za
Keywords
Moringa oleifera -- South Africa, Horse radish tree, Plants, Edible -- South Africa, Multipurpose trees -- South Africa, Moringa oleifera -- Economic aspects -- South Africa, Moringa oleifera -- Growth -- South Africa, Moringa oleifera -- Nutrition
Citation
Mashamaite, C. V. et al. 2021. Moringa oleifera in South Africa : a review on its production, growing conditions and consumption as a food source. South African Journal of Science, 117(3/4):#8689, doi:10.17159/sajs.2021/8689.