Introduction
This fact sheet provides basic information about
noni-common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more
information. Noni is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows
throughout the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean, from Southeast
Asia to Australia and especially in Polynesia.
Common Names—noni, morinda, Indian mulberry, hog apple, canary wood
Latin Names—Morinda citrifolia
What It Is Used For
- Noni has been traditionally used in Polynesia as a dye, but it
also has a history of use as a topical preparation for joint pain and
skin conditions.
- Today, people drink noni fruit juice as a general health tonic, as
well as for cancer and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular
disease and diabetes.
How It Is Used
- Traditionally, the leaves and fruit of noni have been used for health purposes.
- Today, the fruit is most commonly combined with other fruits (such
as grape) to make juice. Preparations of the fruit and leaves are also
available in capsules, tablets, and teas.
What the Science Says
- In laboratory research, noni has shown antioxidant,
immune-stimulating, and tumor-fighting properties. These results
suggest that noni may warrant further study for conditions such as
cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, noni has not been well
studied in people for any health condition.
- Recent NCCAM-funded research includes a study on noni for cancer
to determine its safety and potential effects on tumors and symptoms.
The National Cancer Institute is funding preliminary research on noni
for breast cancer prevention and treatment.
Side Effects and Cautions
- 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 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.
Sources
Morinda. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Web site. Accessed on February 7, 2007.
Noni (Morinda citrifolia). Natural Standard Database Web site. Accessed on February 7, 2007.
Pawlus A, Bao-Ning S, Kinghorn A. Noni (Morinda citrifolia). In: Coates P, Blackman M, Cragg G, et al., eds. Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker; 2005:1-8.
Mueller BA, Scott MK, Sowinski KM, et al. Noni juice (Morinda citrifolia): hidden potential for hyperkalemia? American Journal of Kidney Disease. 2000;35(2):310-312.
NCCAM has provided this material for your information. It is not
intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your
primary health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions
about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of
any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCAM.
NCCAM Publication No. D398
October 2007
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