Noni Juice Facts & Benefits

Noni, the magical fruit from Polynesia, has a growing base of fans who swear by its health benefits. Noni is regarded as a cure-all product by many, but at the same time the claims have not been proven and studies are still being conducted. Despite such lack of compelling research, the popularity of the unsightly fruit is increasing worldwide and the sales of noni juice, capsules and powders are soaring.

What is Noni?

• Noni, also known as morinda citrifolia, is a white, potato-shaped fruit that grows on a tree from the coffee family. Most noni juices are made from fruits grown in Tahiti and Hawaii. Ripe noni fruits have a thin, white skin and white, juicy flesh with numerous small seeds. The tree can grow up to 10 meters high and has large, dark green leaves.
  With its pungent scent and bitter taste, the noni is not on the gourmet list of plants and these attributes also led to its nickname as the "cheese plant." Only in times of famine was noni eaten as a food. Traditional medicine in the Pacific regions use all parts of the noni plant to cure ailments. Still, today one can often see glass jars at Pacific region homes filled with ripe noni sitting in the sun to ferment.
  Commercial distribution of noni began in the mid '90s. Today, there are more than 300 producers of noni juice, most of them located in the U.S.

Noni Nutrients

• Noni is full of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. It has vitamin C, iron, potassium, niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin A, sodium, calcium and a range of phytonutrients. The amount of vitamin content, however, is not impressive; it is less than from an orange and, at the same time, the sodium content is three times as high as in an orange.

Benefits

• Traditionally, noni has been used for strengthening the immune system, curing digestive conditions, respiratory difficulties, skin problems, cuts, burns, various types of pain, menstrual issues, boils and even broken bones.
  Users have claimed to feel an increase in energy, a lowering of their cholesterol levels and a general increase in stamina and well-being.
  Studies show a positive effect on the reduction of cancer cells in rats. Athletes who took noni showed more endurance, but it should be used with care as a couple of noni juice brands are on the list of banned substances according to the World Anti-Doping Code.

Controversy

• Currently, makers of noni juice, medical professionals and the FDA are still arguing about the potential benefits of noni. Hundreds of studies have been conducted with no clear results that all parties can agree to.

Warning

• Due to its high levels of potassium, noni juice should not be taken by individuals with kidney problems. Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before taking any supplements.