Noni, a fruit with great health benefits

Noni, also known by the scientific name of ” Morinda citrifolia ” is grown in tropical climates such as the islands of Polynesia, northern Australia, Puerto Rico and Virgene Islands s the US and has been used for centuries by Pacific Islanders for their health benefits. The noni is not often eaten as a fruit, because it is soft and has an unpleasant odor. Most often it consumed as a fruit juice, although some parts of the fruit, such as leaves and pulp, are also known to have healing properties.

Noni fruit is rich in fiber, carbohydrates and proteins. It also has fatty acids, potassium, calcium and vitamin A. Although usually not eaten as a staple in the diet, noni juice and extracts are traditionally sought for effects antioxidants and their ability to stimulate the immune response.

Cancer Benefits

Noni juice has been shown to provide protection against cancer development. A study by the Academy of Sciences of New York said that noni juice prevented the formation of cancer cells and attributed this action to its high antioxidant power. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York echoed this statement, saying that there are many reports of studies conducted in vitro (outside a living environment) and in animals, showing that noni extract has anti – tumor properties.

Liver Protection

Noni juice was also the subject of a study on plant foods for human nutrition. In this study, rats were exposed to toxins that damage the liver, but the rats were pretreated with noni juice showed a much lower level of liver damage from exposure. While research shows protective effects of noni juice in the liver, if you currently suffer from any liver damage, talk to a doctor before consuming noni juice.

Anti-inflammatory and immunological properties

The noni has an effect analgesic. The conclusion of a study by researchers at the University Clinic in Hamburg, Germany, is that extracts of noni fruit can relieve pain and reduce the amount of joint destruction caused by inflammation of arthritis. Another study showed that noni juice, in vitro tests in mice and showed an increase in immune system response. This is important for those who have a compromised immune system due to illness or other medical conditions.

Ulcer benefits

While testing the effects of noni fruit in the ulcers are few, the issue Feb. 4, 2009, issue of Scientific research shows that an extract of the noni fruit, when used in rats, shows the ability to prevent gastric lesions in the intestines. This is due to the fact that the noni extract decreased the amount of acid in the stomach and increased mucus that protects the lining.

Although it may be unattractive and do not provide a pleasant aroma, noni fruit should be considered as an addition to the diet for its health benefits in general. Noni’s extract is also available as a dietary supplement:  Noni 450 mg – 90 caps Now Foods. Talk to your doctor before taking this supplement in large doses.