Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as noni, is best known as a fruit juice promoted for many potential health benefits. Noni fruit and leaf supplements also are available in teas, capsules and tablets. Noni is claimed to be useful for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and as a general health tonic. Laboratory research indicates that noni has antioxidant, immune-boosting and anti-cancer effects, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Some aspects of noni call for caution if you're considering this supplement.
High Potassium
You should not consume large amounts of noni if you are on a potassium-restricted diet, because the substance is high in potassium, as noted by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Too much potassium could lead to hyperkalemia in patients with kidney disease or taking medications that increase blood levels of potassium. These medications include potassium-sparing diuretics used to lower blood pressure and treat congestive heart failure, as well as blood pressure medicines classified as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, known as ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs.
Liver Considerations
Rarely, noni usage has been associated with liver damage, and certain chemical compounds in noni called anthraquinones can worsen existing liver disease. An article published in the August 14, 2005, issue of the "World Journal of Gastroenterology" described two cases of liver problems associated with drinking large amounts of noni juice. A man who previously had toxic hepatitis linked to use of paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, developed sub-acute liver failure after drinking 1.5 liters of noni juice over three weeks. This man required a liver transplant. Additionally, a woman with no history of liver disease developed self-limiting acute hepatitis after drinking noni juice for over three months.
Combination Products
Because Morinda citrifolia juice has a disagreeable taste and odor, noni juice producers typically mix noni with other juice, such as grape juice, to mask the flavor. This means consumers must drink more juice to obtain specific amounts of noni, and the juice is usually high in sugar content. The MSKCC cautions diabetics to be cautious about drinking these combination products.
Lack of Research
Studies are lacking on noni safety and health benefits in humans, as noted by the NCCAM. It is not known whether noni is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Additionally, claims for noni's benefits sometimes are exaggerated, since these benefits have not been confirmed by research. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned several noni juice manufacturers about making unsubstantiated health claims, according to the NCCAM.
Member Comments