Role of Moringa Olifera Leaf Meal on the Growth Performance of Poultry/African Catfish–A Review

Moringa oleifera commonly referred to as the drumstick tree is a plant from the Moringaceae family. It is a medicinal plant that was found to be loaded with different bioactive chemicals or secondary metabolites such as vitamins, minerals, saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids and carotenoids etc, which are involved in enhancing a long term health benefits. M. olifera is among the most promising species based on their high antioxidant activity, high contents of micro-nutrients, processing properties, ease of growing, and also on palatability, stability and shelf life of animal products. It has a relatively high protein content which varies from 24% - 32%, the leaves are used as a food source for humans and a dry season feed for animals because of the nutrient contents it contains. It has been traditionally used in the treatment of many ailments throughout the world and has been scientifically proven to act as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antiulcer, analgesics and antiepileptic drug. With the increasing popularity on the usage of Moringa olifera in the diets of animals and the positive impact recorded, this review is a collection of different works by authors on using Moringa olifera in poultry and African catfish (Clarias gariepinus).