What Are the Adverse Side Effects of Morinda Citrifolia?

Morinda citrifolia is a plant found throughout the tropics. Despite its use in the treatment of colic, seizures, coughing, diabetes and urinary or menstrual problems, Morinda citrifolia poses a risk for side effects in some patients.

Other Names

• Other names for Morinda citrifolia include Noni, Indian mulberry, Nhou, hog apple, ura, wild pine and rotten cheese fruit. These names all refer to fruit from the same plant and pose the same risk for side effects as Morinda citrifolia.

Significance

• Morinda citrifolia poses little or no side effects as a food, but juice or tea derived from the plant has the potential for adverse reactions.

Time Frame

• Side effects from Morinda citrifolia tea or juice are most common after several continuous weeks of use.

Types of Side Effects

• Some patients develop liver damage or failure while taking Morinda citrifolia. There is also a risk for allergic reactions, some of which cause life-threatening effects like shortness of breath or shock.

Drug Interactions

• When combined with blood pressure medications called ACE inhibitors, Morinda citrifolia sometimes causes hyperkalemia or excessive potassium in the bloodstream, posing a risk for heart or cardiovascular damage. If taken with blood thinners like Warfarin, Morinda citrifolia increases the risk for developing uncontrollable bleeding or sudden hemorrhages.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant or nursing, avoid taking Morinda citrifolia due to the potential for harm to your baby. If you have a history of liver or kidney disease or suffer from increased blood potassium levels, you should not take Morinda citrifolia due to its side effects.