Moringa (Moringa oleifera) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in South Asia and Africa, as a general health tonic and for the management and prevention of various ailments, including colds and other respiratory infections. Its leaves, seeds, and pods are rich in vitamins (notably vitamin C and vitamin A), minerals, and a variety of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In traditional practices, moringa is often recommended to "boost immunity" or fortify the body against illness, which implicitly includes the prevention of colds. The logic behind its use is primarily based on its perceived nutritional density and ability to support overall health, rather than specific, targeted antiviral effects. Ethnobotanical surveys commonly report moringa as an ingredient in herbal remedies for colds and coughs, but these recommendations are largely anecdotal or passed down through generations.

Scientifically, there is limited direct evidence supporting the use of moringa specifically for cold prevention or treatment. While some laboratory studies suggest immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects of moringa extracts, clinical trials in humans examining its impact on cold incidence or severity are lacking. Therefore, its use for colds is primarily rooted in traditional use rather than robust scientific validation.