Skip to main content
Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Evidence-Based Supplement Research

Moringa oleifera leaf extracts improve exercise performance in young male adults: A pilot study.

  • 2024-05-31
  • Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology 131
    • Weiyun Dong
    • Xiangyu Bian
    • Min Wan
    • Lu Jin
    • Yanxian Wang
    • Che Jing
    • Zhanxin Yao
    • Weina Gao
    • Zhuge Xi
    • Changjiang Guo

Study Design

Type
Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
Sample size
n = 23
Population
44 young male adults (26.3 ± 3.5 years)
Methods
randomly assigned to two groups: a supplement group (n = 23) receiving aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves and a placebo group (n = 21). Supplementation period lasted for 30 days.
Blinding
Open-label
Duration
30 days
Funding
Unclear

Background

Moringa oleifera leaves are rich in bioactive substances.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extract supplements on energy metabolism and antioxidant function in young male adults.

Methods

Forty-four young male adults (26.3 ± 3.5 years) were randomly assigned to two groups: a supplement group (n = 23) receiving aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves and a placebo group (n = 21). The supplementation period lasted for 30 days. Baseline measurements were taken at the beginning of the study, and further measurements were taken at the end of the supplementation period. Changes in upper- and lower-body strength, treadmill endurance, and certain blood biochemical parameters were evaluated.

Results

After 30 days of supplementation, participants in the supplement group exhibited enhanced performance in push-ups and treadmill exhaustion tests compared to the placebo group. Levels of glucose, urea, malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase activity in serum were also improved in the supplement group.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that Moringa oleifera leaf aqueous extracts have the potential to improve post-exercise energy metabolism and antioxidant function in young male adults.

Research Insights

Back to top