RECENT studies have identified micro-plastics in human blood, lungs, placenta and digestive tissues, raising questions about their long-term effects on human health. Consequently, the search for affordable and sustainable methods to remove microplastics from water has become a global priority. One promising solution comes from nature itself in the shape of moringa oleifera plant.
The seeds of moringa oleifera contain water-soluble proteins with a positive electrical charge. Most suspended particles in water carry a negative charge. When powdered moringa seeds are added to contaminated water, the positively charged proteins attract and neutralise these particles. This process, known as coagu-
lation and flocculation, causes the contaminants to clump together into larger aggregates called flocs. As these flocs become heavier, they settle at the bottom of the container and can be removed through filtration. The result is cleaner and clearer water. Unlike conventional chemical coagulants, such as aluminium sulphate, moringa seed powder is bio-degradable, environmentally friendly and is derived from a renewable natural resource.
The water purification process begins with the harvesting of mature moringa pods. The seeds are removed from the pods, dehulled and dried before being ground into a fine powder. This powder is then mixed with contaminated water and stirred thoroughly. After a period of settling, the flocs containing impurities and microplastic particles sink to the bottom, allowing the clarified water to be filtered and collected. Additional dis- infectants may be applied if the water is intended for drinking purposes.
Moringa-based water treatment is in-expensive, sustainable and easily applicable in rural and resource-limited communities. Since moringa plants grow well in many regions of Pakistan, the raw material is readily available. Despite these benefits, moringa seed treatment is not a complete replacement for modern water treatment technologies. While it effectively removes suspended particles and facilitates the aggregation of many microplastics, it may not eliminate dissolved chemical pollutants, heavy metals or extremely small nano-plastics. Therefore, it should be viewed as a complementary method rather than a standalone full-scale solution on its own.
Dr Abdul Quddoos
Lahore
Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026