The use of Moringa oleifera Seeds in the Treatment Water from the Negro River for Indigenous Communities in the State of Amazonas, Brazil

Abstract

The poor quality of water intended for human consumption is one of the problems that has led to the appearance of several human diseases. The seeds of Moringa oleifera Lam. Can be used as a sustainable and low-cost alternative for water treatment. The aim of this study was to develop alternative methods of treating water for human consumption through the use of Moringa oleifera seeds. Water samples were collected at four points along the Negro River, in the state of Amazonas, for treatment with moringa seeds and simplified filtration systems. The samples were subjected to five types of treatment and compared to untreated samples and drinking water parameters, established by the Ministry of Health. Significant differences were observed in the following physical and chemical parameters of treated and untreated water: color, turbidity, dissolved solids total hardness, total alkalinity, electrical conductivity and ammonia content. The results suggest the possibility that moringa seeds can be used to produce better quality water for human consumption, especially in the case of people living in indigenous communities far from urban areas and without access to any type of water treatment.