Noni

Indian Mulberry

The scientific name of Noni: Morinda citrifolia.

Name of Noni in different languages:-

English: Great morinda, Indian mulberry,  Beach mulberry, Cheese fruit.

Hindi: Vatanasini

Sanskrit: Dhanavalli, Vatanasini

Malayalam: Talavedanavalli, Vatakkodi, Vatamkolli,  Kuruppakodi

Tamil: Vatamkolli, Nintavalli, Thalavali Vally

Plant Specifications:

Noni is a tropical fruit scientifically known as Morinda citrifolia. It’s native to Southeast Asia and Australasia but is now grown in many tropical regions around the world. The fruit is known for its strong, pungent smell and bitter taste, which is why it’s often referred to as “cheese fruit” or “vomit fruit.”

Despite its off-putting flavor and odor, noni has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and is believed to have a variety of health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving digestion.

Noni is commonly consumed in the form of juice, capsules, or powders, and is often marketed as a health supplement. However, while some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety.

Leaf Arrangement

Shape-oval or elliptic Margin-Entire Venation-midrib

 

 

 

Useful  plant parts:

Fruits

 Medicinal uses of Noni:

1. Immune System Support:
Noni Juice: Noni juice is commonly consumed to boost the immune system. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, that help strengthen the body’s natural defenses.
2. Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Leaf Poultice: Noni leaves are sometimes crushed and applied topically as a poultice to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain in conditions such as arthritis, sprains, and bruises.
Noni Juice: The anti-inflammatory properties of noni juice are also believed to help with internal inflammation, potentially benefiting conditions like asthma and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Pain Relief:
Traditional Use: In Polynesian medicine, noni was used as a natural analgesic, sometimes referred to as “painkiller tree.” It’s been traditionally used to alleviate various types of pain, including headaches, menstrual cramps, and joint pain.
Noni Fruit: The fruit and its juice are believed to contain compounds like scopoletin, which may help reduce pain.
4. Digestive Health:
Noni Juice: Noni juice is sometimes consumed to aid digestion and treat gastrointestinal issues like constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion. It’s thought to stimulate bowel movements and help in detoxification.
5. Skin Health:
Topical Application: Noni leaf extracts or the juice can be applied to the skin to treat wounds, burns, and infections. It’s believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties that promote healing and prevent infections.
6. Antioxidant Benefits:
Noni Juice and Extracts: Noni is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants also contribute to overall health and longevity.
7. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Traditional Use: Some traditional practices use noni to help manage blood sugar levels, making it potentially beneficial for people with diabetes, though more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
8. Cardiovascular Health:
Noni Juice: Regular consumption of noni juice is believed to improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, and improving circulation.
9. Anti-cancer Potential:
Research and Traditional Beliefs: Preliminary research suggests that noni may have anti-cancer properties, potentially inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. However, this is an area that requires more scientific evidence to support the traditional beliefs.
10. Mental Health and Well-being:
Noni Juice: Noni has been traditionally used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s thought to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and improving mood.
11. Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal Properties:
Noni Leaves and Roots: Extracts from the leaves and roots of the noni plant are used to treat infections due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. These extracts may be used both internally and externally.
12. Liver Protection:
Noni Juice: Noni is believed to have hepatoprotective effects, meaning it can protect the liver from toxins and support liver function.

Caution:

While noni has a long history of traditional use and potential benefits, it’s important to approach its use cautiously, especially in large amounts or over extended periods. Some studies have raised concerns about potential liver toxicity, and its safety during pregnancy is not well-established. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using noni for medicinal purposes, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Chemical content:

1. Polysaccharides
Acemannan: Known for its immunostimulatory effects.
2. Iridoids
Deacetylasperulosidic acid and asperulosidic acid: These compounds are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
3. Anthraquinones
Damnacanthal: A compound studied for its potential anti-cancer properties.
Alizarin and Morindone: These have shown antibacterial and antifungal activities.
4. Flavonoids
Rutin, quercetin, and kaempferol: These are potent antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative stress.
5. Fatty Acids
Linoleic acid and oleic acid: These essential fatty acids contribute to noni’s health benefits, particularly in cardiovascular health.
6. Scopoletin
A coumarin derivative with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties.
7. Triterpenes
Compounds like ursolic acid and betulinic acid: Known for their anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities.
8. Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin C: High in antioxidants, boosting immune function.
Potassium and calcium: Essential minerals for various bodily functions.
9. Xeronine
An alkaloid that has been claimed (though not conclusively proven) to regulate proteins in the body.
10. Proxeronine
A precursor to xeronine, which is thought to activate enzymes and enhance overall health.
11. Beta-sitosterol
A phytosterol that may help lower cholesterol levels.
12. Amino Acids

Noni contains several essential amino acids that are crucial for protein synthesis and various metabolic functions.
The exact composition of noni can vary depending on factors like the part of the plant used, its maturity, and environmental conditions where it’s grown. Noni’s combination of these compounds is believed to contribute to its therapeutic potential, although more scientific research is needed to fully understand its benefits and mechanisms.

Copy rights 2013-2024 Medicinal Plants India : All rights reserved.