Studies on Traditional Water Purification Using Moringa oleifera Seeds

Abstract

The efficacy of Moringa oleifera Lam seeds paste for water purification was investigated. Chemical analysis found the seed to contain 34.1% protein, 15% carbohydrates and 15.5% lipids. Phytochemical tests and spectral studies led to the elucidation of a steroidal glycoside-strophantidin as a bioactive agent in the seed. Comparative studies with alum showed that the seed paste was effective in the clarification and sedimentation of inorganic and organic matter in raw water. It reduced the total microbial and coliform counts by 55% and 65%, respectively, after 24 hours whereas alum achieved 65% and 83% reduction under similar conditions.