Moringa (Sahjan): The Fast-Growing Drumstick Tree for Jaipur
Moringa oleifera
Sahjan (moringa) is a native, fast-growing food tree whose leaves, flowers and pods are traditional vegetables. Learn when to plant it in Jaipur, how to protect young plants from frost, and why it is a food tree rather than a big shade tree.
Toxicity
Cautions and safety
- Do not eat the roots or bark. The leaves, tender pods and flowers are widely eaten, and a 2015 safety review found no adverse effects reported in human studies of the leaves at normal food amounts. But the roots contain a harmful alkaloid, and the gum is traditionally described as causing miscarriage. Avoid roots, bark and gum, especially during pregnancy.
- Animals: Cattle and camels eat the leaves, but seed meal proved toxic to rabbits. There is no information for dogs and cats.
- Brittle branches can snap in storms, and the tree rots in waterlogged soil.
Sahjan is native here and not a concern as an invasive in Rajasthan. Its IUCN status is Least Concern.
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- Humans
- Mildly toxic
Affected parts: roots, root bark, bark, gum
- Pets and animals
- Not verified — check before exposing pets or children
Affected animals: Cats, Dogs
This article was prepared with AI assistance. Please check important details against the sources shown in each section.
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