Latin: Morinda citrifolia
Usually sold under the name “Noni Juice”, the juice of the Morinda citrifolia fruit was highly advertised during the 1990s as an anticancer agent. Although most claims appear to be based on undocumented reports, Morinda citrifolia does show some properties that may fight cancer and other diseases. In laboratory studies, it has shown some ability to promote the immune system activity and to repair damaged cells.
Some additional evidence shows other potential actions of Morinda. |
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In laboratory studies, powdered Morinda citrifolia juice has shown mild anti-inflamatory effects, possibly by blocking an enzyme that promotes pain and inflammation. Chemical analysis of Morinda citrifolia juice has shown that it may have some antibacterial and antiviral properties that may also be present in other type of morinda. In fact, several species of Morinda have shown varying effectiveness in killing organism that causes malaria. Extracts made from the leaves of different morinda species - either singly or in combination - may also be effective againts other types of parasites that infect humans
For centuries, traditional Chinese healers have used the dried roots of the Morinda officinalis species as an energy-boosting tonic. Known as ba ji tian in Asia , this preparation may also be used to treat gastrointestinal and urinary tract conditions. It has shown anti-inflammatory effects that have relieved arthritis symptoms in laboratory animals and it has bone-building properties that may give it some effectiveness for treating osteoporosis. Recent studies in laboratory cultures show that Morinda officinalis root may have some possible antidepressant and antianxiety properties, as well.
Under the local name Mengkudu we are growing Morinda citrifolia in East Java, Indonesia.