Efficacy of Moringa oleifera as a natural coagulant in household water treatment in South West Nigeria

Moringa oleifera (Lam) seeds have been identified as a potential natural coagulant with effective water purification properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the seeds as coagulants in improving the quality of household water in South West Nigeria, focusing on its ability to reduce turbidity and microbial contamination. Water samples were collected from household water sources in selected rural and peri-urban communities in the South West region, including wells, boreholes, and surface water bodies. Treatment with the seed powder at an optimal dosage of 100 mg/L resulted in reductions between 85% and 96%, achieving near World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Statistical analysis was performed to compare pre- and posttreatment water quality parameters. Results showed that treatment with the seeds powder at a dose of 100 mg/L yielded significant reductions in total coliform and E. coli counts by over 90%, compared to the control group. These results suggest that the use of the seed in household water treatment is feasible and effective.