Botanical Overview
Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as Noni, Indian mulberry, or Cheese fruit, belongs to the Rubiaceae family. This tropical plant is native to Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, the Caribbean, Australia, and India. The fruit, leaf, root, and bark of Morinda citrifolia are used medicinally.
Energetics
Morinda citrifolia is generally considered cooling and moistening in nature. It has bitter, pungent, and sweet tastes and is tonifying in action, primarily affecting the qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
- Immunomodulatory
- Analgesic
Indications
Western
- Joint pain
- Inflammation
- Skin infections
- Digestive disturbances
- Immune weakness
Syndromes
- Arthritis
- Bacterial infections
- Oxidative stress related disorders
- Gastrointestinal disorders
TCM
- Damp-heat related discomfort
- Toxicity
- Skin eruptions
Syndromes
- Heat-toxin accumulation
- Dampness syndrome
Ayurveda
- Fever
- Inflammation
- Skin disorders
- Digestive sluggishness
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Vata disorders related to pain
- Ama (toxicity) accumulation
Unani
- Inflammatory pain
- Infectious conditions
- Jaundice
Syndromes
- Soda-e-Hararat (excess heat)
- Sauda imbalance
Constituents & Mechanisms
Morinda citrifolia contains anthraquinones, flavonoids, iridoids, polysaccharides, scopoletin, selenium, and alkanols, contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Fruit juice 30-60 mL daily
- Powdered fruit 1-3 g daily
- Leaf decoction 10-20 mL 1-2 times daily
- Tincture (1:5 in 40% ethanol) 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Morinda citrifolia is generally safe when used appropriately. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare cases of liver toxicity have been reported; monitoring liver function during prolonged use is recommended. Potential interactions include additive hypotensive effects with antihypertensive drugs and interference with warfarin; medical supervision is advised.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources found for planetary or elemental rulers; thus, none are assigned.
Selected References
- A review of the pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential of Morinda citrifolia (Noni)
- Morinda citrifolia L. (WHO Monograph)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of Morinda citrifolia (Noni): A review
- Morinda citrifolia (Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects)