Morinda citrifolia, known commercially as noni, grows widely throughout the Pacific and is one of the most significant sources of traditional medicines among Pacific island societies. This small evergreen tree or shrub is native from Southeastern Asia (Indonesia) to Australia, and now has a pantropical distribution. Noni is noted for its extremely wide range of environmental tolerances.
Noni is native to Southeast Asia (Indonesia) and Australia. It can be found in disturbed forests, dry to mesic forests, alien grasslands, open areas near the shoreline, pastures and coconut plantations, in littoral forest understories, fallow areas, waste places, and around villages.
The Noni plant (sometimes known as “Indian Mulberry”) is found growing throughout the Pacific islands, often along lava flows and in forest regions up to around 430 meters (1,300 feet). It is a small evergreen tree recognized by its straight trunk, large green leaves, white tubular flowers and distinctive yellow fruit.
It is for this foul smelling fruit that the Noni is best known. Sometimes growing to 12 cm (5 inches) or more, it has a lumpy surface with triangular seeds endowed with an internal air sack that makes the fruit readily buoyant.
The Noni fruit has a long history of medicinal use throughout the Polynesian islands.
Used in local medicines (juice, poultice) and as a famine food (e.g., by Hawaiians, Australian aborigines). Unripe fruits are cooked in curries and ripe fruits are consumed raw with salt (e.g., Burma). Fruit is cooked and mixed with coconut and eaten as stimulant on long sea voyages (e.g., Nauru).
Very young leaves are cooked as vegetables and eaten with rice in Java and Thailand; mature leaves are wrapped around fish before cooking and then eaten with the cooked fish. The terminal bud is used as food (e.g., Kiribati).
Dried leaves or fruits are used to make infusions and teas for medicinal use.
The leaves are used to wrap fish or other meats and foods during cooking.
Fruits are believed to be as an appetite and brain stimulant.
Noni has been found useful in treatments of a wide variety of health problems. This is mainly due to the way Noni is thought to effect the body.
Leaves, fruits, stems, and roots are used in various medicinal preparations, healing protocols, and treatment methods throughout the Pacific region.
Treatment for malaria, general febrifuge, and analgesic (leaf tea); laxative (all parts of the plant); jaundice (decoctions of stem bark); hypertension (extract of leaves, fruit, or bark); boils and carbuncles (fruit poultice); stomach ulcers (oils from the fruit); scalp insecticide (seed oil); tuberculosis, sprains, deep bruising, rheumatism (leaf or fruit poultices); sore throat (gargling a mash of the ripe fruit); body or intestinal worms (whole fresh fruits); laxative (seeds); fever (leaf poultice); cuts and wounds, abscesses, mouth and gum infections, toothaches (fruit); sties (flowers or vapor from broken leaves); stomach ache, fractures, diabetes, loss of appetite, urinary tract ailments, abdominal swelling, hernias, stings from stonefish, and human vitamin A deficiency (leaves). The leaves are also used as a medicinal poultice or body wrap (e.g., Micronesia). The terminal bud has medicinal uses (e.g., Northern Marianas).
Although the jury is still out on precisely what makes Noni work, a number of clinical studies done by Dr. R.M. Heinicke of the University of Hawaii have suggested a link between this fruit and xeronine. Xeronine is a rather small alkaloid occurring in virtually all healthy cells of plants, animals and microorganisms. Without xeronine life would cease.
Why is xeronine so important to cellular health? Testing done on this vital alkaloid suggests that xeronine regulates the shape and rigidity of specific proteins. As proteins have very different functions, a large range of physiological responses are caused by this one simple drug. If a disease is caused specifically by a lack of xeronine supplementation will alleviate the symptoms of the problem.
Dr. Heinicke explains,
“I believe that each tissue has cells which contain proteins, which in turn have receptor sites for the absorption of xeronine. Certain of these proteins are the inert forms of enzymes which require absorbed xeronine to become active.....Since Noni is a potential source of this alkaloid [xeronine], Noni juice can be a valuable herbal remedy.”
The effect of xeronine on the body at cellular level assists the removal of dead tissue safely and quickly from burns. Hence Noni appears to be an effective treatment for burns.
Some proteins become potential receptor sites for hormones after they react with xeronine. Hence, Noni's ability to make a person generally feel well is no doubt due to the xeronine converting brain receptor proteins into active sites for the absorption of endorphin.
Proteins are also responsible for the forming of pores through membranes in the intestines. The absorption of xeronine here can beneficially change the shape of these pores, assessing the passage of molecules and thereby improving digestion.
Other conditions that may respond favorably to Noni treatments include high blood pressure, menstrual cramps, arthritis, gastric ulcers, sprains and injuries, depression, senility, poor digestion, artherosclerosis, blood vessel problems, drug addiction and general pain relief.
In a study published in 1949 in “Pacific Science”, Noni products were suggested as having moderate antibacterial properties against the bacteria M. pyrogenes, E. coli and Ps. aeruginosa.
Further, Dr. Isabella Abbott G.P. of the University of Hawaii says that there are possibly many other uses for Noni. Speaking of the recent popularity of the herb, she said,
“they use it for diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer...”
She then goes on to describe how her mother used the ripe fruit juice on cuts and scrapes to prevent infection.
Some people have reported success in using Noni to treat breast cancer and eye problems.
Dr. Joseph Betz, a research chemist with the FDA's Division of Natural Products Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition says about Noni,
“Morinda Citrifolia has been tested for a number of biological activities in animal and anti microbial studies.”
He reports that the dried fruit has a smooth muscle stimulatory activity and a histaminergic effect. The root was also reported as possessing analgesic and tranquilizing activity.
A report out of Keio University and The Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Japan (“Cancer Letters”, September 30, 1993 issue) claimed that a compound called damnacanthal had been isolated from the Noni root which induced normal morphology and cytoskeletal structure in K-ras-NRK cancer cells.
Noni has also proved to be an effective antioxidant. The photo nutrients in Noni promote cell nourishment and protection from free radicals that cause cell break down. Additionally, Noni contains selenium, one of the best antioxidant compounds known.
Other health problems thought to receive substantial help from Noni are:
AIDS; Allergies; Athlete's foot; Autoimmune system dysfunction;
Broken bones;
Cataracts; Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; Chemical sensitivity; Colitis; Comas; Colds; Constipation; Coughing; Croup; Cysts;
Diaper rash; Double vision; Dry skin spots;
Eczema; Energy;
Fevers;
Gout;
Headache; Heart disease; Herniated disk; Hyperkertoses;
Infections; Insomnia; Irregular heartbeat;
Kidney cancer; Knee pain;
Liver cancer;
Macular degeneration; Migraine; Multiple Sclerosis; Muscle pain;
Nervous system damage; Neurological disorder;
Pre-menstrual syndrome; Prostate cancer; Psoriasis;
RSDS;
Sinus; Sleep; Spinal chord problems; Stroke; Sunburn;
T-cell count; Tumors;
Varicose veins;
and yeast rash.
The noni plants are used in various ways. The bark and roots of Morinda citrifolia are used for dying clothes. The tree itself acts as support and shade to vines and bushes as well as windbreaker. Ancient Polynesians thought to have used noni as a cure to various illnesses. In addition, traditional medicine in Asia Pacific found the noni plant to be effective cure to common disorders.
China, Japan and Hawaii uses parts of the noni to cure fever and as tonic drink.
Pacific Islanders use the noni leaves, flowers, fruit, and bark for eye problems, wounds and abscesses, gum and throat disorders, respiratory diseases and constipation.
People in the Marshall Islands use noni to relieve stomach pains.
In Malaysia, the leaves are heated and placed over the chest to ease coughing, nausea and colic discomfort.
In the Philippines, the leaves are made into tea by old people to treat arthritis.
Indochinese eat the noni fruits to cure backpain (lumbago), asthma and dysentery.
Malaysian women regulate their menstrual flow by drinking noni juice from over-ripe fruits; this also helps treat urinary problems.
Fruits are made into shampoo and to eliminate head lice in Hawaii.
Pounded unripe fruits are applied to cuts and broken bones by the Polynesians.
Studies about the health benefits of Morinda citrifolia reveal that the plant contain a vast amount of nutrients from plants (phytonutrients) such as scopoletin, octoanoic acid, potassium, vitamin C, terpenoids, anthraquinones and many other antioxidants. The most important component in the plant that Ralph Heinicke, a retired biochemist, discovered is the alkaloid. The alkaloid in the noni produces xeronine which helps in the cell regeneration of the body. Therefore, the noni plant is now considered a wonder herb that can help treat cancer and other disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, AIDS, gastric ulcers, mental depression, senility, atherosclerosis, vascular diseases and drug addiction.
With the growing concern for natural and herbal remedies, the Morinda citrifolia (noni) has been commercially distributed worldwide as noni fruit juice, noni capsules, noni powder, and noni soap and even including noni shampoo, lotion and spray.
To read more specifically about Noni Juice, click here.
Noni is high in potassium. People who are on potassium-restricted diets because of kidney problems should avoid using noni.
Several noni juice manufacturers have received warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration about making unsubstantiated health claims.
Although there have been few reported side effects from using noni, its safety has not been adequately studied.
There have been reports of liver damage from using noni. It should be avoided if you have liver disease because it contains compounds that may make your disease worse.
Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
The safety and long-term effects of noni juice and other noni products are not well known. A few cases of liver problems have been reported in people taking noni in European countries. One of these patients had previous liver damage and required a liver transplant, but the others recovered when noni was stopped.
The juice has a significant amount of potassium, equivalent to a similar amount of tomato juice or orange juice, and may pose problems for people with kidney disease and others who must restrict their potassium intake. It is also high in sugar, which must be considered for people with diabetes and others who are restricting their calorie intake. It may also cause the urine to turn a pink or reddish color. Noni juice and supplements have not been studied in pregnant or breast-feeding women.
Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer, may have serious health consequences.
User reviews about Noni Supplements:
No More Sinus Infections or Colds! February 01, 2008, By CJ From Texas
I began taking Noni capsules for other health benefits but noticed I stopped having sinus & respiratory infections. In 4 years I have not had ONE since starting the Noni capsules!!
Great! October 15, 2008, From Idaho
Works really well for respiratory issues.
... January 20, 2011, From Rhode Island
I just don't get what Noni is supposed to do? I haven't noticed any positive effects from taking this supplement.
The healing fruit! October 28, 2011, From California
Antioxidants, anti-bacterial, anti-viral... - what more can you ask? I have a few of these every day.
From Norway December 26, 2011, From Norway
I use together with other supplements and fell myself much better.
Bobby and Maggie Brynn Singo October 15, 2008, From North Carolina
My wife and I have been using this product for some time now and find it very benificial for the purpose we are taking it for...also animal friendly...give according to weight.....very helpful with my dog...
Noni is good! March 02, 2008, From Ohio
So far so good! I've been taking noni for about a year and like it!
From Wisconsin--Noni January 19, 2009, From Wisconsin
We love this product, it does make a difference with inflammation. Ours friends that are on Noni say "They would not be without it".
Great value March 17, 2009, From Washington
Been taking Noni for 10 years now and feel great. I don't bother shopping around for better prices. ...
Noni Berry capsules very helpful for senior horse June 26, 2009, From Wisconsin
My 30 year old horse has been on Noni Berry capsules for about 7 months now, with good results. I was looking for an overall anti-inflammatory effect and it seems to have helped in that way. He is quite arthritic and he sometimes walked unevenly prior to the Noni Berry. In contrast, he has been moving with fair evenness and good energy when herd activity motivates him. Also, he has Cushings disease (metabolic disorder, presumably from a tumor on the pituitary gland or adrenal gland, I think). One characteristic of that is poor shedding in the spring. This spring, my old horse shed out better than he has in the last 5 years. I have also added cinnamon, which is supposed to help with glucose metabolism in Cushings horses. He has been on Pergolide for about 7 years, duration of diagnosis. With his wt, I give him 30 capsules/day. An alternative veterinarian suggested using Noni Berry and gave guidance with the dose and gradual build up to the desired volume.
User reviews about Noni Juice:
CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT THIS JUICE!!! March 24, 2010, From Texas
I have been drinking this juice for almost 6 years now and cannot go a day without it. I can feel all the cells in my body applauding and cheering each time I drink it! :) ...
Rosie of VA. April 21, 2008, By Rosemary S Taylor From Virginia
I ordered this noni juice 12 to 24 qt. at a time, it has help me with my fibromyaigia and a leg injury. With my fibromyaigia I had been in bed for year now I have a life. Try the other one not as good as this. My sugar is great to. So everytime I ordered I get my noni juice. I've been disable for 25 years and in one with the noni juice I my have had 10 pains. So now when I know it's going to rain two day before I add more noni and it works. …
Amazing for Back pain or any pain in body!!!! October 28, 2009, From California
My husband has scoliosis. This keeps his pain at bay, good cleansing effect, mental clarity and as well keeps his muscles at ease.
Tastes Awful May 28, 2011, From California
I didn't know if this was supposed to tastes bad or if I had a spoiled batch but it was extremely sour and bitter. I could not take it and ended up throwing it out. ...
Excellent quality noni juice February 12, 2010, From Great Britain
Took my treatment of adrenal fatigue to the next level!! Have found that if it seems like it's not working any more, give it a break for a few days and resume again. Then vary the amounts you take from day to day.
Allergy relief April 29, 2010, From New Jersey
Not only do I receive increased enegy but I found the noni juice help with my allergy related systems.
On the fence June 08, 2010
I don't know whether this product has helped me or not. The results seem inconclusive to me. It tastes gross, but know that it's good for me in one way or another.
... 100% Tahitian Organic Noni Juice November 07, 2007, From Louisiana
My husband loves it. It helps his knee pain more than anything he has ever taken. He thinks the organic noni is superior over regular noni juice.
Unbelievable! January 23, 2007, By Christopher Cook From California
I absolutely love this product. It's like a liquid miracle. Knocked my cold I couldn't get rid of right out. Helps tremendously when I loose sleep and in higher doses helps put me to sleep.
... 100% Tahitian Organic Noni Juice March 25, 2008, From Illinois
Did not like it, the taste of it was really bad and was not able to take it.
Good for you October 12, 2010, From Pennsylvania
I use noni juice several times a week to feel better on waking. I have digestive disorders and some pain, and this helped alot.
Noni juice December 12, 2007, From Minnesota
Doesn't taste the best but I already knew it wouldn't. I appreciate the benefit of the nutrients I'm receiving from it.