Nutritional and Phytochemical Characterization of Moringa oleifera Leaves from an Arid Region: LC-MS and AAS-based Profiling for Potential Dietary Applications

Background: Moringa oleifera (MO), widely recognized for its exceptional nutritional value and therapeutic properties, has attracted considerable scientific interest. However, the specific bioactive phytochemicals associated with its potential effects in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and obesity remain insufficiently elucidated. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional, therapeutic, and antioxidant potential of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) from the Ghardaïa region (Southern Algeria) using hydromethanolic (HME) and aqueous (AE) extracts. Materials and methods: Proteins and carbohydrates contents were quantified using Bradford and DuBois et al.methods respectively. Mineral content was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Bioactive profiles were identified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS), alongside antioxidant capacity using Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay. Results: HME exhibited higher protein (19.34 ± 1.48 g/100 g), while AE contained elevated total sugars (32.24 ± 1.11 g/100 g). Mineral analysis revealed significant iron (59.07 mg/100 g), magnesium (250.72 mg/100 g), and manganese (7.08 mg/100 g). UPLC-ESI-MS/MS identified 28 bioactive compounds, with Quercetin-3-glucoside (47.91%) and myricetin (17.47%) as dominant flavonoids, alongside curcumin (11.21%) and β-carotene (4.2%). Ferthermore, AE exhibited significantly higher FRAP values than HME, with IC₅₀ values of 207.09 ± 2.31 μg/mL and 266.23 ± 3.63 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: This initial report highlights MOL extracts as a sustainable and cost-effective dietary supplement for managing hyperlipidemia and obesity, due to their rich nutrient content, diverse bioactive compounds, and adaptability to arid climates.