Pros & Cons of Noni Juice Treatment

Commonly grown in the volcanic soil of Hawaii, but originating in French Polynesia, the noni plant has grown in popularity in the United States because of its possible health benefits. A member of the coffee family, the noni plant is an evergreen shrub that can grow as tall as six meters. The fruit is about the size of a potato and when ripe is yellow and white; it should be picked when it is completely yellow. All parts of the noni plant are edible and have been used for medicinal purposes throughout the ages. Many health professionals debate the effectiveness of the noni plant, and it has been controversial in the medical world.

Smell and Taste

• The noni fruit has a pungent smell and taste. It carries the nickname "cheese fruit" because of its bitter taste and strong odor. Even the juice takes some getting used to in its pure form. However, many health companies that are selling noni juice are mixing it with other "super fruits," such as the acai berry and pomegranate, to enhance the juice's flavor and make it more desirable to consumers.

Antibacterial Properties

• Noni juice contains many nutrients, but it especially contains antibacterial components such as anthraquinones, scopoletin and terpenes. Theses agents help to prevent and cure intestinal infections such as E. coli.

Topical Medication

• Because of the antibacterial and antifungal components anthraquinones, scopoletin and terpenes, the noni fruit has been used for centuries as a topical medication for skin infections. It is said to heal cuts, broken skin, inflammation and irritation. It also was considered a healing medication that was believed to mend broken bones.

Diabetics

• Similar to any other fruit juice, there are no known side effects of noni juice. However, diabetics need to watch their intake because any fruit juice contains sugar and must be ingested with caution. However, no additional caution needs to be taken with noni juice as opposed to other juices.

Constipation

• Consuming too much noni juice can cause constipation. This is an easy problem to remedy, but noni juice should not be consumed in quantities larger than the recommended amount on the bottle. This is especially true when your body is first being introduced to noni juice.

Fiber

• Noni juice contains fiber. The insoluble fiber found in noni fruit can aid in removing toxins from the system. This can also help in weight loss as it is always recommended to increase fiber intake when trying to lose weight. Remember that fiber should be taken gradually at first to prevent stomach upset and pain.