Noni is a small tree or shrub native to the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean. The fruit and leaves of the Morinda citrifolia plant -- commonly called noni or Tahitian noni -- may serve as a general health tonic when prepared as a juice, extract or tea, or as oral and topical supplements. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with Tahitian noni before choosing to use this herbal supplement.
Benefits
Though Tahitian noni is marketed as a treatment for everything from depression to cancer, there is no reliable evidence supporting the medicinal benefits of this supplement. Noni is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which may help protect your cells from damage. Additional benefits associated with noni supplementation include reduced blood pressure, improved immune function and pain relief.
Side Effects
Noni is a high-potassium fruit, and prolonged or excessive use of this supplement may significantly elevate your blood potassium levels -- a condition called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia may cause symptoms of nausea, vomiting, fatigue, heart rate changes, weakness or unusual body sensations. Severe cases of hyperkalemia may result in temporary paralysis, which may be debilitating. Additionally, health professionals with Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center report that treatment with noni supplements may cause hepatotoxicity or liver damage. If your liver begins to malfunction, you may experience abdominal pain, excessive fatigue, jaundice or dry, itchy skin. Consult your health care provider immediately if you experience any of these problems while using noni supplements. Without proper medical intervention, these side effects may cause permanent or life-threatening health issues.
Contraindications
Before beginning treatment with noni supplements, be sure to discuss any pre-existing health problems you may have with your doctor. If you have kidney disease or damage, use caution when using products that contain noni. People with kidney problems may be at an increased risk of developing high blood potassium levels following noni treatment. Due to the risk of liver damage, people with pre-existing liver problems should not use noni. Additionally, women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid taking noni, as the safety of this supplement has yet to be fully examined.
Medication Interactions
If you are taking ACE inhibitors, potassium-sparing diuretics or angiotensin receptor blockers, avoid consuming products that contain noni. These medications may prevent your body from excreting potassium and may increase your risk of developing hyperkalemia as a side effect of noni treatment. The antioxidant effects of noni may also interfere with certain cancer therapies, such as radiation and chemotherapy. Be sure to talk with your physician about all medications you are taking before you begin treatment with any new drug or supplement, including noni.
