Maternal anemia and low birth weight are serious health problems in many developing regions. This rigorous study tested whether Moringa oleifera leaf supplementation can help prevent them.
It was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of 64 pregnant women in Gowa District, South Sulawesi, Indonesia (2012–2013), comparing moringa leaf extract supplementation against control, with pre- and post-test measurements.
Key findings
- Haemoglobin levels rose significantly in the moringa group (p < 0.05).
- Moringa extract consumption increased haemoglobin by about 58% in the intervention group.
- This supports moringa leaf for preventing maternal anemia and supporting healthier birth weights.
Caveat: a clinical trial; this is research information, not medical advice. Pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider.
Summary of: (2013). “Effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts supplementation in preventing maternal anemia and low birth weight.” Randomized controlled trial, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Summarised by MORIFA; full paper via the PDF link above.