The Effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) Leaf Decoction on Random Blood Glucose Levels in Elderly Residents at the Kupang Social Welfare Institution (UPTD) for the Elderly

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a degenerative disease commonly affecting the elderly as a result of physiological aging and reduced metabolic function. Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera) contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols, which have been reported to possess antihyperglycemic effects. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of moringa leaf decoction on random blood glucose levels among elderly individuals at the UPTD Social Welfare Institution for the Elderly in Kupang. Methods: This pre-experimental study employed a one-group pretest–posttest design involving 40 elderly participants selected based on inclusion criteria. The intervention consisted of administering 150 mL of moringa leaf decoction, prepared by boiling 0.3 g of moringa leaves in 450 mL of water at 80°C for 6 minutes, once daily in the morning before meals for seven consecutive days. Random blood glucose levels were measured before and after the intervention using a glucometer. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: The mean random blood glucose level decreased from 140.2 mg/dL before the intervention to 120.7 mg/dL after the intervention. Statistical analysis showed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Moringa leaf decoction significantly reduced random blood glucose levels among elderly individuals at the UPTD Social Welfare Institution for the Elderly in Kupang.