Noni fruit, or also known as nonu, nona, nono, nuna, morinda, achi, anino, bengkudu, Indian mulberry, mengkudu, minamaram, and still plenty of names on their locals – is a yellow-greenish-white, large and pebbled surfaced not so nicely smell and taste fruit. Noni is a native and commonly found in Asia, Australia, and the islands of Polynesia plant.
Polynesian medicine man have used noni fruits to help treat a variety of health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, aches, pains, burns, arthritis, inflammation, aging, parasitic, viral, and bacterial infections and even tumors. It is cited on the ancient healing manuscripts that the Noni fruit is a primary natural healing formulations ingredient. Noni fruit has been consumed during famine and in some Pacific islands raw or cooked as any other food.
The widely proven fact about Noni fruit is the alkaloids content which enhance the enzymes activity and support the protein structures. Noni fruit is also contains a unique polysaccharides which is believed can stimulate the immune system to provide anti-bacterial, anti-tumor and anti-cancer.
Scopoletin (C10H8O4) contained on Noni fruit is also known to regulate blood pressure, relieving depression and promoting relaxation. Noni fruit is also a good source of Vitamin C.
The application of compounds contained in Noni fruit based on traditional use or published research are:
- Promoting body immune system
- Increasing energy
- Help ease insomnia
- Promoting healthy joints and help muscle injuries and sprains.
- Common pain and inflammation relief
- Help cancer patients
- Skin care
- Prevent and ease hypertension
- Prevent and ease diabetes
- Diuretic agent
- Treat constipation
- Reduce blood fat / cholesterol
- Antimicrobial agent
In a more modern world, Noni fruit is mostly served in juice form and mixed with other fruit juices to reduce the uneasy taste and smell of the Noni fruit.
Source :
Nelson S.C., and C.R. Elevitch, 2006, Noni: The Complete Guide for Consumers and Growers, Permanent Agriculture Resources, Holualoa, Hawaii.
