<i>Moringa oleifera</i>: A miracle multipurpose tree for agroforestry and climate change mitigation from the Himalayas – A review
Shilpa Devkota, Khuma Kumari Bhusal
Abstract
Drumstick (Moringa oleifera L.) is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of South Asia. It is also growing in Nepal; however, underutilized crop species. The excellent benefits of moringa offer global cultivation in recent years; however, it is still categorized under-utilized species in Nepal. Recently, efforts are being carried out by researchers, policymakers and nutritionists on its prospects for future-smart food in Nepal. Moringa oleifera is a highly nutritious food crop along with promising characters like rapid growing and drought resistance. We reviewed the prospect of Moringa oleifera as an agroforestry tree in Nepal. Here we briefly discussed its distributions, cultivation and production status in Nepal, and its multipurpose uses. Data and information were collected from newspapers, journals and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development website. Available literature suggested that it is considered as an “ideal tree” for agroforestry. A review of the literature indicates that Moringa oleifera under the multistoried cropping pattern under the shade of this tree is highly effective for crops. The tree is less sensitive for price change, hence, it can overrides mono-cropping. Also, the agroforestry with Moringa oliferia plays a vital role in soil and water conservation. Further, we recommended a research study on the most suitable crops under agroforestry with this tree, the economic analysis of the moringa-based agroforestry system and the effect of shade due to moringa tree on soil quality.