Multidisciplinary Investigation on Moringa stenpetala (Haleko)

Experiences and lessons learned through One Health-Ecohealth Approach

Abstract

Background: Moringa stenopetala is a multipurpose plant in areas where it grows. This study aims to explore the health and nutritional values of M. stenopetala, the interaction between the socioeconomic, environmental, aspects of cultivating and commercializing the tree products through One Health–Ecohealth approach.

Methods: It is a multisectoral and interdisciplinary community-based study conducted in M. stenopetala consuming (Konso, Derashe, and Hammer) and non-consuming areas (Bonkey and Chencha) of Southern Ethiopia. The study also comprised of experimental trial sites, field areas and various laboratories-based studies to generate scientific information and technology packages.

Results: Prevalence of vitamin-A deficiency in M. stenopetala consuming group was lower compared to the non-consuming group. Anterior neck mass in moringa consuming and non-consuming study sites did not reveal thyroid gland enlargement. Health facility-based prospective study on chronic care follow up for one year on voluntary participants showed that daily and weekly consumption of M. stenopetala reduced blood pressure and fasting blood sugar level. The mean measurements of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride and systolic blood pressure had lower scores in the moringa-consuming areas. Vast integration of species diversity concerning 18 crops and 22 tree species in a piece of land was observed with a dominancy of M. stenopetala tree. Maximum fresh leaves biomass (823g per tree) was recorded at a lower pollarding height (0.5meter). The highest fresh leaf biomass was recorded as 3110 Kg^-1 on 2m×2m spacing.

Conclusion: Moringa stenopetala has nutritional, health, agroforestry, environmental and socioeconomic benefits. Therefore, its use and conservation have to be properly exploited.