Do the Health Claims Made for Morinda citrifolia (Noni) Harmonize with Current Scientific Knowledge and Evaluation of its Biological Effects

Abstract

Morinda citrifolia, also known as Great Morinda, Indian Mulberry, or Noni, is a plant belonging to the familyRubiaceae. A number of major chemical compounds have been identified in the leaves, roots, and fruits of the Noniplant. The fruit juice is in high demand in alternative medicine for different kinds for illnesses such as arthritis,diabetes, high blood pressure, muscle ached and pains, menstrual difficulties, headache, heart diseases, AIDS,gastric ulcer, sprains, mental depression, senility, poor digestion, arteriosclerosis, blood vessel problems, anddrug addiction. Several studies have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and apoptosis-inducingeffects of Noni in various cancers. Based on a toxicological assessment, Noni juice was considered as safe. Thougha large number of in vitro, and, to a certain extent, in vivo studies demonstrated a range of potentially beneficialeffects, clinical data are essentially lacking. To what extent the findings from experimental pharmacologicalstudies are of potential clinical relevance is not clear at present and this question needs to be explored in detailbefore an recommendations can be made.