Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as noni, is a small evergreen tree that grows throughout the tropical areas of the Pacific Ocean. Polynesian people have long used Morinda citrifolia for a wide range of traditional remedies, but no scientific evidence confirms the benefits of noni juice for any medical purposes, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian, a physician who specializes in natural supplements. Consult with a qualified health care provider before taking herbal supplements.
Theories/Speculation
Noni products are purported to stimulate the immune system and to be effective for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, high blood pressure and even cancer, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Traditional practitioners have used noni fruit, leaves and bark as a health tonic and to relieve diarrhea, urinary problems and infections, and as a topical preparation for joint pain, wounds and various skin conditions.
Potential
Laboratory research indicates noni has antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. In addition, noni juice may be helpful for pain relief, and it is often used for treating arthritis and other conditions involving pain and inflammation. During a study appearing in the January 2010 issue of "Phytotherapy Research," mice that drank water with a 10-percent concentration of noni fruit puree showed decreased pain sensitivity similar to those receiving the drug tramadol.
Anti-Cancer Effects
Laboratory and animal studies suggest that noni has antitumor effects, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. During a study published in the journal "Nutrition and Cancer" in 2009, blood biomarkers indicated that drinking 1 to 4 oz. per day of Morinda citrifolia, as the brand Tahitian Noni Juice, may reduce cancer risk in heavy cigarette smokers. The American Cancer Society describes a study in which researchers caused tumor development in mice and then injected the mice with noni juice. These mice survived twice as long as untreated mice.
Considerations
The American Cancer Society cautions that no reliable clinical research confirms that noni juice prevents or can treat cancer in humans. Human studies with noni juice are in the very early stages, and effects seen in animal and laboratory studies do not always translate to the same result in people.
Safety
Research is lacking on the long-term effects and safety of noni juice, according to the American Cancer Society. Although rare, some people have developed liver problems while taking noni, indicating the substance may have some degree of liver toxicity. Dr. Sahelian recommends a dosage of 1 oz. or less every other day, as part of an overall balanced diet.
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