‘Miracle tree’ gives hope to rural community

ONE of the most impoverished rural municipalities in the Eastern Cape could soon be home to one of the most important trees in the world.

The Ntabankulu municipality in the Alfred Nzo district municipality is hoping to start cultivating the Moringa Oleifera tree which is also referred to as the “miracle tree” in the science community because of its many medicinal benefits.

A quick search on www.miracletree.org reveals that the Moringa Oleifera tree can be used to treat cancer, diabetes, diarrhoea, headaches, skin ailments, gastric ulcers, fever, bronchitis, eye and ear infections, liver and spleen problems, joint pains and urinary problems.

It is also used in some parts of the world, including some African countries, as a food supplement due to its potency in proteins, vitamins, calcium and other nutrients.

It is also reportedly effective as a water purifier.

Alfred Maroyi, an associate professor in plant ecology-botany at the University of Fort Hare, confirmed that the Moringa Oleifera tree had many uses.

The professor wrote a research paper on the plant more than 12 years ago. He said Moringa Oleifera had been used as a food supplement in Zimbabwe for HIV- Aids patients. The tree thrives in dry conditions. Ntabankulu mayor Vusi Mgoduka said: “We found that here in Ntabankulu, because of the climate with less rain, it can thrive.”

He said they were hoping to open a factory where products could be made from the tree and exported.