Moringa oil is derived from the seeds of Moringa oleifera, a small tree native to the Himalayan mountains. Virtually all parts of the moringa tree, including its seeds, roots, bark, flowers, and leaves, can be used for nutritional, industrial, or medicinal purposes. Moringa oil has been used as a medicinal folk cure and as a topical, cosmetic ingredient since ancient times. Today, moringa oil is manufactured for a wide range of personal and industrial uses. Cooking oil. Moringa oil is high in protein and oleic acid, a monounsaturated, healthy fat. When used for cooking, it's an economical, nutritious alternative to more expensive oils. It's becoming a widespread nutritional staple in food-insecure areas where moringa trees are grown. Topical cleanser and moisturizer. Moringa oil's oleic acid makes it beneficial when used topically as a cleansing agent, and as a moisturizer for skin and hair. Cholesterol management. Edible moringa oil contains sterols, which have been shownTrusted Source to lower LDL or bad�¯ cholesterol. Antioxidant. Beta-sitosterol, a phytosterol found in moringa oil, may have antioxidant and antidiabetic benefits, although more research is needed to confirm this. Anti-inflammatory. Moringa oil contains several bioactive compounds which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both when ingested and used topically. This may make moringa oil beneficial for acne breakouts. These compounds include tocopherols, catechins, quercetin, ferulic acid, and zeatin.