Drumstick (Moringa olefera)-based Functional Tea: Sensory Evaluation and Beneficial Effects on Health

Abstract

Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) leaves, locally known as Sajna, have enormous nutritional and medicinal benefits. The
study was carried out to formulate drumstick-based functional teas with the aimed to explore alternative uses of Sajna
leaves by incorporating with other natural ingredients ginger (Zingiber officinale), holy basil (Ocimum sanctum),
lemon grass (Cymbopogon schoenanthus) and stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) leaves. Proximate analysis of all the
formulated herbal teas was carried out and the sensory qualities were evaluated by the eleven member taste panels. We
used a nine-point hedonic scale for sample’s appearance, texture, flavor, smoothness, smell, color, aesthetic appeal and
comprehensive parameters of taste. This study found higher amount of nutrient contents in dried drumstick leaves than
the fresh one. In acceptability test regarding the appearance, it was seen that sample-3 was liked very much (>8) by the
panel members. It also showed that sample-3 tea (Blended with all other ingredients including lemongrass and stevia)
obtained the highest score (8.17 ± 0.55) on the color. On the other hand, in the acceptability test of smell and flavor, it
was observed that sample- 3 was liked moderately whereas sample 1 was not liked or disliked by the judges. In
acceptability test of smoothness and texture, it was seen from the Hedonic scale points that sample-3 was liked very
much (8.57) and moderately liked (>7) by the judges respectively. Based on sensory evaluation, it was concluded that
drumstick-based functional tea was acceptable for further consumption, distribution and marketing.