Therapeutic Potential of Moringa Extracts in Gout Management: A Comprehensive Review of Mechanisms, Formulations, and Future Prospects

Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperuricemia and recurrent inflammatory arthritis due to monosodium urate crystal deposition in the joints. Conventional pharmacological therapies, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, and xanthine oxidase inhibitors, are effective but are often associated with adverse effects during long-term use. Consequently, there has been an increased interest in plant-based therapeutic alternatives with improved safety profiles. Moringa oleifera, commonly known as the drumstick tree, is a medicinal plant rich in bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and antioxidants. Several studies have demonstrated its potential antihyperuricemic activity through the inhibition of xanthine oxidase, regulation of renal urate transporters, and anti-inflammatory effects mediated by the modulation of pathways such as NF-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This review summarizes the pathophysiology of gout, limitations of current therapies, pharmacological properties of Moringa oleifera, and various formulation strategies reported in the literature, including oral, topical, and advanced nano delivery systems. This review highlights the therapeutic potential of Moringa oleifera as a multi-mechanistic natural agent for gout management and emphasizes the need for further clinical studies and formulation optimization.