A new study suggests that seeds from the Moringa oleifera—often dubbed the “miracle tree”—can remove up to 98% of microplastics from drinking water. Published in the scientific journal ACS Omega on January 19, the research found that the natural method can match or even outperform conventional chemical treatments.
Led by Gabrielle Batista at São Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil, the study focused on filtering harmful PVC microplastics, which are among the most dangerous types for human health. The findings point to a potentially greener, low-cost alternative for water treatment systems.
In 2024, the European Union strengthened monitoring protocols for microplastics in drinking water, amid concerns that the smallest particles may bypass filtration and enter the bloodstream and organs. The use of moringa for purification, however, is not new—historical evidence suggests Ancient Egyptians already used the plant to remove bacteria and improve water clarity, highlighting its long-standing potential as a natural solution.
Indeed, microplastics are everywhere, from the deepest oceans to our drinking water, and now even inside the human body. As contamination becomes unavoidable, understanding its effects is more important than ever. Click on the gallery to discover the dirty truth about microplastic pollution.