Efficacy and safety on Moringa oleifera on blood glucose and lipid profile: A meta-analysis

Background: Results from previous clinical trials in which the effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) on blood glucose and lipid profile were investigated are controversial. Objectives: The main objective of this study was to assess the effects of MO consumption on blood glucose level and lipid profile in randomized controlled trial (RCTs) and non-RCTs. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive systematic review was performed by searching the PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Thai Library Integrated System databases up to December 2019 without any language restrictions by two independent authors. The DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model method was used to pool the results. Results: Seven trials with 257 participants and treatment duration of 28–90 days were included. The pooled results showed a significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (FBS; weighted mean difference [WMD]: −14.81 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −27.99, −1.63; I² = 97.8%), postprandial glucose (PPG) (WMD − 64.73 mg/dL; 95% CI: −102.87, −26.59; I² = 93%) and no significant change in HbA₁C (WMD: 0.70%; 95% CI: −1.42, 0.69; I² = 99%), low-density lipoprotein (WMD − 11.20 mg/dL; 95% CI: −34.12, 11.72; I² = 8.08%), total cholesterol (WMD − 4.73 mg/dL; 95% CI: −24.96, 15.49; I² = 80%), and triglycerides (WMD − 3.29 mg/dL; 95% CI: −9.95, 3.36; I² = 29%). Moreover, MO treatment increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level significantly (WMD 2.15 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.92, 2.39; I² = 0%). No serious adverse effects of the intervention were reported. Conclusion: The results of our study suggested that MO treatment decreased FBS, PPG levels and increase HDL level. However, the long-term benefits and safety of the treatment remain to be determined.