Open AccessEffects of Moringa Oleifera Leaves and Honey Supplementation during Pregnancy on Mothers and Newborns: A Review of the Current Evidence
Author(s) -
Veni Hadju,
Muhammad Dassir,
Andi Sadapotto,
Aliyah Putranto,
Geoffrey C. Marks,
Andi Imam Arundhana
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
open access macedonian journal of medical sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.288
H-Index - 17
ISSN - 1857-9655
DOI - 10.3889/oamjms.2020.4670
Subject(s) - medicine , moringa , pregnancy , malnutrition , traditional medicine , environmental health , genetics , biology
BACKGROUND: Malnutrition in pregnant women has been known to bring effects on the mothers’ and infants’ health. Food or nutrient supplementation is now being used to correct the problems. Moringa Oleifera leaves and honey are the two types of natural supplements used by pregnant women.
AIM: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the potential effects of Moringa, honey, and both compared to ironfolic acid supplements given to pregnant women on the pregnancy outcomes.
METHODS: A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the extent of the benefits of the supplementation of M. Oleifera, honey, or both against pregnant women. There were seven studies which are conducted in Indonesia on this topic.
RESULTS: This review shows that M. Oleifera leaves in the form of extract and powder as well as honey could improve maternal weight and hemoglobin, and baby’s birth weight. Moreover, both interventions could reduce stress and protect mothers and their babies from negative effects of oxidative stress.
CONCLUSION: Nevertheless, efforts are needed to formulate a recommended dose as adequate supplements for pregnant women.