Morinda (Noni Fruit): 10 Health Benefits

Morinda citrifola, also known as Indian mulberry, is a fruit that's native to Southeast Asia. The fruit starts out green then ripens, giving off a pungent odor. Mordina is often sold in juice form. Noni fruit was first used for dyeing clothes, before its healing properties were understood. It can be used to help alleviate pain and naturally boost the immune system, among other health benefits. (1)

Mordina (Noni Fruit) Health Benefits

1. Works as an Analgesic

Morinda was often called "the tree for headaches" or "the painkiller tree." The fruit has the ability to effectively reduce pain related to rheumatoid arthritis and other muscle and joint pain. Studies have compared the effectiveness of noni fruit in pain relief to the drugs tramadol and hydrocortisone.

2. Works as a Sedative

Noni fruit naturally stimulates seratonin and melatonin. Seratonin is responsible for regulating mood and emotion, while melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm. The fruit helps naturally improve mood while promoting a good night's sleep.

3. Boosts the Immune System

Morinda is a natural immune-booster. It works to strengthen the immune system by providing powerful antibacterial agents and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight off harmful bacteria and infections. (2)

4. Promotes Healthy Skin

Noni fruit can be used to help promote healthy skin and a healthy scalp. Rubbing the fruit on areas of concern such as eczema, ringworm or a dry scalp can help moisturize the area and promote healing. (3)

5. Has Anti-Cancer Properties

Morinda helps stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which reduces tumor growth and helps the body fight off the replication of cancerous cells. Noni fruit contains a substance called noni-ppt that has been shown to help fight cancer and boost the immune system. (4)

6. Helps Prevent Hypertension

Noni fruit contains phytonutrients, selenium and Vitamin C, which help fight free radical damage on the blood vessel walls. Noni also contains a compound called scopoletin that can help lower blood pressure levels.

7. Reduces Cholesterol Levels

Morinda can be used as a natural remedy to help lower cholesterol levels. It works by preventing the absorption of LDL cholesterol to unclog arteries and keep the body healthy. (5)

8. Improves Memory

Morinda has the ability to prevent the absorption of cholesterol thanks to the phytosterols it contains. These compounds support brain health and reduce plaque build up in the arteries, to keep the brain properly oxygenated and working properly, thus improving memory and contration.

9. Relieves Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Noni fruit is high in soluble fiber, which naturally helps ease the strain on the intestines. It also works to soften stools, while providing the body with vitamins and minerals it needs to keep the intestines healthy.

10. Fights Infections

Morinda has natural antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties that can help the body fight off infection. It also contains healing compounds, including anthraquinones, scopoletin and terpenes, that work to fight off disease. (6) Possible side effects: When taken in large amounts noni tea or juice may cause liver damage in some people. Do not take noni if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Noni contains large amounts of potassium, so it may not be safe for people with kidney problems, especially kidney disease, or for those on a low-potassium diet. If you have any health concerns, talk to your doctor before adding morinda to your health care regimen. (7)