The microplastic pollution has become one of the greatest environmental threats to the planet’s water systems. In light of this scenario, a recent study revealed that moringa, known as the “miracle tree”, could become an ecological alternative to clean drinking water of invisible plastic particles.
The research, conducted by scientists from the São Paulo State University (UNESP) in Brazil, demonstrated that extracts obtained from moringa seeds can remove more than 98% of PVC microplastics present in water.
Additionally, the results indicated that this natural method matches and even surpasses the effectiveness of some chemical products currently used in European treatment plants.
The finding becomes relevant at a time when the European Union has reinforced controls over microplastics in drinking water due to the growing risks to human health and ecosystems.
Microplastics: a silent threat to the environment and health
Microplastics are tiny particles generated by the degradation of packaging, tires, paints, and synthetic fabrics. Due to their size, they can pass through conventional filters and enter rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
Moreover, various scientific studies warn that these particles could be related to cardiovascular problems, reproductive disorders, and inflammatory diseases. Additionally, they have the capacity to transport toxic substances through ecosystems.
Currently, much of Europe uses aluminum sulfate, also known as alum, to separate microplastics and contaminants during water treatment. However, this compound generates waste that is difficult to eliminate and can leave aluminum residues in the water resource.
On the other hand, the industrial production of alum involves open-pit mining, high energy consumption, and pollutant emissions. Consequently, there is growing interest in natural solutions with a lower environmental impact.
How does moringa work in water purification?
The moringa seeds contain compounds capable of neutralizing the electrical charges of pollutant particles. In this way, microplastics cluster together forming larger flocs that can then be retained using simple sand filters.
Furthermore, researchers found that moringa maintains its effectiveness at different pH levels, which facilitates its implementation in various treatment systems.
Another highlighted aspect is that this method could reduce costly industrial processes and high energy consumption. It could even decrease the volume of toxic waste generated during traditional purification.
However, specialists point out that large-scale trials are still necessary to confirm its functionality in urban plants and to evaluate some side effects, such as the release of organic carbon during the process.
What is moringa and what does it need to grow properly?
The moringa is a tree native to South Asia and widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Latin America. Its scientific name is Moringa oleifera and it is characterized by its rapid growth and great climatic resistance.
It can develop in dry, degraded, or low-fertility soils, making it a valuable species for environmental restoration programs. Additionally, it needs abundant sunlight and warm temperatures to grow properly.
Although it tolerates prolonged drought periods, it requires good drainage to avoid excess moisture in its roots. For this reason, it usually thrives in arid or semi-arid areas where other species find greater difficulties.
In addition to its applications in water purification, moringa is used in traditional medicine, food, and cosmetic production. Its leaves have high nutritional value and its crops contribute to carbon capture, soil conservation, and promoting local biodiversity.
