Morinda citrifolia is an evergreen plant that grows naturally in tropical regions of the South Pacific Ocean. The juice of this plant's fruit, known as noni, is used traditionally in Polynesia and other tropical areas of eastern Asia and Australia for relieving joint pain and other health benefits. Consult with a qualified health care provider before using noni juice for pain therapy.
Traditional Uses
Some tropical South Pacific populations have traditionally used noni fruit, juice, leaves and bark as both topical preparations and as a liquid tonic for muscle and joint pain, as well as for urinary problems and skin disorders. They mash unripe noni fruit with salt and apply it to skin injuries and even to areas of broken bones, according to the American Cancer Society. The ripe fruit can function as a poultice for skin blemishes, sores and infections.
Products
Noni fruit in modern usage is typically combined with other fruits and made into juice, explains the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Other fruit juices are included because noni has an unpleasant flavor. Additional noni products include teas, liquid extract and dried extract in capsules, tablets and powder, using the fruit, leaves and bark.
Research on Pain
Research is lacking for the benefits of noni for human health conditions, according to the NCCAM. A study with mice published in the January 2010 issue of "Phytotherapy Research" found that 10 percent freeze-concentrated noni fruit puree in water decreased pain sensitivity similar to the effects of the drug tramadol, a narcotic-like pain reliever. Additionally, a laboratory study described in this article found that noni fruit puree extract had similar beneficial effects on human cells as hydrocortisone, a medicine used for treating arthritis.
Potential
Animal and laboratory studies indicate other potential benefits from noni as well, according to the NCCAM, including immune system stimulation and anti-cancer effects. Noni also has antioxidant properties, which could help prevent cell damage that leads to disease. The NCCAM notes that more research is necessary.
Safety
Few side effects are associated with noni, but the NCCAM cautions that the safety of this substance has not been adequately researched. Some people may experience diarrhea after drinking noni juice, and noni can turn urine pink or reddish. Very rarely, excessive consumption of noni juice has been linked to liver damage. The NCCAM recommends that people with liver disease avoid noni because it contains chemical compounds that can worsen liver disease. Ray Sahelian, a physician who specializes in natural supplements, recommends limiting noni juice intake to 1 oz. or less every other day.
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