Tahitian noni fruit has many medical properties
Noni
Updated Mar. 03rd, 2022
What is it?
The noni tree is a tropical evergreen that grows large green-yellow fruit that has an unpleasant biter smell and taste. There is a rich history of the medicinal use of noni from Polynesia but very few scientific studies have tested these uses. Traditionally, the noni fruit is used for internal conditions, and the leaves are used externally.
Internally, noni is given for asthma, digestive complaints, fevers, infections, diabetes and high blood pressure. Topically noni leaves are tied around painful joints, used like a headband for headaches and made into a salve for wound healing.
How is noni a superfruit?
Noni fruit is a good source of fiber and is believed to contain more than 150 nutrients, including vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, C and E), minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and selenium), protein, amino acids (including all the essential amino acids), phytonutrients, polysaccharides and digestive enzymes. It is due to the large number of nutrients in noni that it is considered a superfruit.
What can it do?
Medical studies on noni have centred on its possible use for cancer treatment because it can stimulate the immune system and repair damaged cells. There is some evidence that topical use of noni can improve skin quality and prevent hair loss. Further research is required to confirm the medicinal benefits of noni. Currently, noni can be used as a dietary supplement due to its rich nutritional benefits.
How can I take it?
Noni juice comes from fruits that have been ripened, softened and fermented. The bitter, pungent juice is then separated and bottled, or dried and to put into capsules. Some manufacturers add other fruit juices to noni liquid to improve the taste. Dried extract of noni can be purchased but it is not known how the drying process affects the medicinal value of the fruit. Noni juice may also be found in skin creams and shampoos and conditioners.
Important Information
Some brands of noni juice may be high in potassium. Individuals with compromised kidney function, people taking potassium supplements or those on medications that alter potassium levels, should not use Noni. Noni juice is high in sugar and may upset the blood sugar levels of diabetics. The safety of noni in pregnancy and lactation has not been studied. Noni juice can cause harmless changes in the colour of your urine.
