Abstract: Moringa seeds are rich in protein, oil, vitamins, polysaccharides, mineral elements and other nutrients, and possess a variety of pharmacological functions including antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective functions. Moringa seeds have been a promising food resource on account of both its culinary and medicinal value. This paper summarizes the major nutritional components of Moringa seeds and systematically reviews recent advances in the pharmacological properties, safety and food application of Moringa seeds. Furthermore, problems existing in this research field are pointed out and some directions for future research priorities and future development trends are presented. We expect that this review will provide useful guidance for scientific application and rational development of Moringa seed-based foods.

Key words: Moringa seeds, nutrients, pharmacological properties, safety evaluation, culinary and medicinal value