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Noni Fruit Juice: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh

Introduction: 

Noni fruit juice is a tropical beverage derived from a fruit called Morinda citrifolia. Noni fruit tree grows in Southeast Asian countries, especially in French Polynesia. Noni fruit is a small-sized edible fruit with a bitter flavour, smells like bad cheese, and appears like a grenade. Although noni fruit juice originated in tropical regions, it has become popular globally. The Burmese used noni fruit to prepare curries; the Australians ate it during the cool-dry seasons. Noni fruit juice was the first whole food approved under the novel food regulations of the European Union in 1997. Noni juice can be prepared both by homemade and commercial methods. The homemade method provides 100% pure noni juice. Today, noni fruit juice is considered a safe, functional food that may enhance the body’s immunity. In addition, Noni fruit juice may be a perfect blend packed with potent antioxidants that may help provide several health benefits.​1,2​ Let us discuss the noni fruit juice benefits, its nutritional value, potential uses, and much more. 

Did you know?

Nutritional Value of Noni Fruit Juice: 

I would suggest noni juice if you’re looking for a natural way to support your bones and potentially protect your hearing. Noni juice might have some unexpected perks! In a study done among post-menopausal women, those who drank noni juice showed a possible increase in bone resorption (which can help with osteoporosis) and also experienced less hearing loss. Plus, their mental health and overall quality of life improved.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

A 15 ml pure noni fruit juice serving may provide 3.5 kcal energy.​3​ The nutrients of noni fruit juice include: 

Nutrients Value 
Sugar 0.9 g 
Carbohydrate 0.9 g 
Potassium 10 mg 
Calcium 2 mg 
Sodium 1 mg 
Magnesium 800 µg 
Iron 35 µg 
Zinc 300 µg 
Vitamin B3 170 µg 
Vitamin C 1.5 mg 
Vitamin B9 12 µg 

Table 1: Nutritional value of Noni Fruit Juice per 15 ml.3 

In addition, other bioactive compounds like quercetin, gallic acid, ursolic acid, limonene, xeronine, alizarin, beta-carotene, citifolinoside, scopoletin, damnacanthal, and monoterpene may be present in noni fruit juice. 

Properties of Noni Fruit Juice: 

I recently came across a fascinating study involving heavy smokers and noni juice. After 30 days of consumption, participants who drank noni juice experienced a significant decrease in levels of superoxide anion radicals and lipid hydroperoxide, which are indicators of oxidative stress. This suggests that noni juice may have antioxidant benefits that are good for individuals exposed to tobacco smoke.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Noni Fruit Juice may have the following health-benefitting properties: 

Potential Uses of Noni Fruit Juice: 

In my opinion, sipping on some noni juice might help you go that extra mile or power through your workout with more energy. Human intervention studies have shown that noni juice may have a surprising benefit—it could boost physical endurance!

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

The following are the potential health benefits of noni fruit juice: 

1. Potential uses of noni fruit juice for cancer 

Noni fruit juice may have anti-cancer activity. Gastric cancer patients regularly took homemade noni fruit juice, and their condition improved. The effect of cancer reduced down may be due to the Noni fruit juice2. However, despite several claims about noni juice being cancer effective, no human trials exist to back this claim. Therefore, it is essential to consult doctors for cancer treatment and not use it for self-medication.  

2. Potential uses of noni fruit juice for arthritis 

Noni fruit juice may have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it may help improve joint pain and aid in flexibility and mobility of the joints. One of the traditional names of noni in the Caribbean was “pain killer.” However, in a clinical trial, participants were given noni fruit juice. At the end of the trials, the patient’s pain intensity was significantly decreased with complete relief of neck pain. Hence, noni juice for arthritis may show certain benefits against arthritis. However, if you experience severe joint pain, consult your doctor, and take appropriate treatments. 

3. Potential uses of noni fruit juice for weight loss 

In multiple animal studies, noni fruit juice has shown significant weight loss with a decrease in body fat. In a clinical study by Palu et al., 2011, it was found that when obese adults were given noni fruit juice, every participant experienced weight loss. This may help in managing body fat. However, the study could not determine how much noni juice contributed to weight loss.1 Hence, more clinical studies are needed to propose a firm conclusion about the uses of noni juice for weight loss. 

4. Potential uses of noni fruit juice for diabetes 

The benefits of noni juice may be related to lowering blood sugar levels. In an animal study by Umezawa et al., 1992 was found that fermented noni fruit juice may significantly decrease fasting glucose levels. They suggested that noni fruit juice may act as insulin directly or increase peripheral tissue sensitivity to the storage of more insulin. However, this is an animal study; therefore, more human research is needed to suggest the potential uses of noni fruit juice for managing diabetes.​4​ 

5. Potential uses of noni fruit juice for skin health 

Noni juice benefits the skin and may be associated with enhancing skin health. In a clinical trial, West et al., 2012 found that a noni juice-based skin care regimen in women effectively reduced fine lines, facial wrinkles, and firmness when applied on the face. In addition, there was no report of any skin irritation during or after the trial. Hence, the benefits of drinking noni fruit juice may help to increase skin health. However, if you have any skin-related issues consult your doctor and do not self-medicate. 

6. Other Potential Uses of Noni Fruit Juice 

Though studies show the potential uses of noni-fruit juice in several conditions, these studies are insufficient, and there is a need for further research to develop the true scope of the benefits of noni-fruit juice on human health. Additionally, it is essential to consult a doctor before using noni fruit juice for any medical condition. 

How to Use Noni Fruit Juice?  

Different types of Noni fruit juice are commercially available based on extraction techniques like traditional and non-traditional.4 These include 

You should consult a qualified doctor before using noni fruit juice in large quantities. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing modern medical treatment with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation of noni fruit juice without consulting an ayurvedic physician. They will guide you with its form and dosage per your health condition. 

Side Effects of Noni Fruit Juice: 

Noni juice side effects may include: 

Therefore, it is advised to limit the consumption of noni-fruit juice to avoid such side effects. If such side effects appear, consult your doctors, and get proper treatment. 

Precautions to Take with Noni Fruit Juice: 

Despite various advantages of noni juice for good health, it is essential to follow certain precautions:  

Interactions with Other Drugs:  

More human research and scientific evidence must state the possible interaction between noni fruit juice and other drugs. Therefore, people should not assume that are no interactions at all. Therefore, medical consultations with Ayurvedic doctors are recommended before including noni juice in a diet.  

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Is noni fruit juice suitable for pregnant women? 

No. Noni fruit juice is not suitable for pregnant women. It may interfere with foetal development and may create further complications.2 Therefore, pregnant women should take precautions and avoid having noni juice

What are the side effects of noni fruit juice? 

The noni juice side effects may include nausea, irregular heartbeats, muscle weakness, and hyperkalemia (high amount of potassium in the blood).4 Therefore, if you observe such side effects, take proper treatment from your doctor. 

What are the vitamins of noni fruit juice? 

Noni fruit juice contains vitamin C, vitamin B3, and vitamin B9.4 

What are the benefits of noni juice for blood pressure? 

The advantage of noni fruit juice for blood pressure is that it may help to lower systolic high blood pressure.4 However, consult your doctors if you have a high blood pressure problem, and do not self-medicate. 

Does noni fruit juice interact with other drugs? 

No major report has recorded the interaction of noni juice with other drugs. However, take medical consultations from your doctors and do not use noni juice to self-medicate unless advised.

References:  

​​1. West B, Deng S, Isami F, Uwaya A, Jensen C. The Potential Health Benefits of Noni Juice: A Review of Human Intervention Studies. MDPI | Foods. 2018;7(58):1–22. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5920423/pdf/foods-07-00058.pdf 

​2. Brown A. Anticancer activity of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit: a review. Phytotherapy research. 2012;26(10):1427–40. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22344842/ 

​3. Chemical Constituents of Pure Noni Juice [Internet]. [cited 2022 Nov 27]. Available from: https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/noni/nutritional_analysis_juice.asp 

​​4. Ali M, Kenganora M, Santhepete M. Health Benefits of Morinda citrifolia (Noni): A Review. Pharmacognosy Journal. 2016;8(4):321–34. Available from: https://www.phcogj.com/sites/default/files/10.5530pj.2016.4.4.pdf 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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The Amazing Noni Fruit Juice And Its Health Benefits

Many people are unaware of Noni fruit by their name, but we have seen these small fruits in the market someday. This fruit resembles mulberry and is called Indian mulberry. This oval-shaped greenish-yellow fruit is native to the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, Australia, and India.

Since ancient times, Polynesian peoples have used noni in traditional folk medicine for over 2,000 years. Noni fruit has superb medicinal benefits. Its stems, leaves, bark, and root are all very beneficial for health.

What is a noni tree?

Noni obtained from Morinda citrifolia tree. This evergreen Morinda citrifolia tree is a native of Asia, the Islands, and Australia. 

The noni tree has big, green glistening leaves that bear noticeable veinous patterns. Noni tree has flowers and fruits throughout the year. 

 Noni fruits can be eaten raw and ripped. Now noni juice is popular with multiple health benefits.

 Noni fruits are small in size with numerous seeds inside them. It is sometimes called cheese fruit because of its strong smell and bitter taste. Noni fruit is also known as starvation or vomit fruit because people ate it out of necessity. 

What are the nutritional properties of noni?

 If you are looking for healthy juices, noni juice is one of them because it is rich in various nutrients. Noni is rich in –

How to consume noni fruit?

Noni fruit is available in juice or powdered form. Usually, noni juice is famous with many health benefits, which may combine with grape or other berry juices. Also, noni powder can be mixed with water or berry juice.

Benefits of the noni fruit juice?   

Noni juice is said to be a magical drink as it affects so many bodily systems positively. Here are some health benefits of noni juice –

1: May support heart health in tobacco smoker: 

Noni juice helps to reduce the cellular damage and internal inflammation caused by tobacco smoke. It helps reduce the inflammation and cholesterol levels that may increase your risk of heart disease.    In non-smokers, noni juice may reduce blood pressure and heart rate. This is among the many noni fruit benefits.

There are clinical study results that suggest that the cholesterol-lowering effect of noni juice may only apply to heavy cigarette smokers.

2: Boost energy level:

Noni juice is rich in various nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work as a body tonic. Since ancient times, noni juice is beneficial for general weakness. It helps boost energy and improve the overall physical performance of the body.  Apart from high levels of vitamin C, noni juice contains various other phytochemicals that help modulate the immune system of the body. Regular consumption of noni increases antioxidant activity in the human body.

Noni juice provides great endurance during exercise that may reduce the damage to muscle tissue too. Research suggests that Noni juice aids the body by increasing oxygen uptake and the time it takes for it to get tired, and decreasing oxidative damage in muscles.

3: Help reduce pain:

Noni has the nicknames ”The Tree for Headaches” or ”The Painkiller Tree”. It is a traditional folk medicine to reduce pain. It works wonders in alleviating joint pain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and osteoporosis. Noni has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps increase the flexibility of connective tissues, banishing stiffness in joints and reduce pain. 

4: Help reduce high blood pressure:

Noni contains a high amount of vitamin C, poly nutrients, and minerals that keep blood vessels healthy to keep your heart healthy. It is also rich in specific compounds scopoletin and xeronine which, may lower blood pressure

5: May reduce cancer risk

Noni stimulates the production of nitric oxide that reduces tumor growth. It helps your body fight against the cancerous replication of cells. 

According to the studies, if the cancer is existing, then noni may slow, stop, or reverse the cancer process.

6: Keeps skin healthy

Noni is a powerhouse of antioxidants and vitamin C. It helps moisturize your skin and reduce the dryness and fine lines from the skin. It naturally replenishes and repairs your skin by hydrating it. Noni helps fight free radicals, preserve skin elasticity and reverse the adverse effects of aging.

7: Act as antidepressant and mood stabilizer:

Noni may stimulate serotonin and melatonin in your body. Those two hormones help stabilize mood, emotions, and sleep. It also helps your brain stay healthier, and plaque does not build up in arteries feeding the brain, keeping it properly oxygenated. This healthy blood supply keeps your memory sharp.  

8. Aids Weight Management

Studies have shown noni juice to be helpful in managing weight and treating obesity. According to researchers, this might be due to the way noni juice preserves active muscle cell mass.

What are the side effects of noni juice?

Noni is possibly safe while consumed or applied topically in adults. However, more studies are required to use noni juice in various diseased conditions. 

While noni juice is mostly very beneficial to us, there may be some side effects to keep in mind. The noni fruit itself is low in sugar. However, when packaged, it may be mixed in with sugar. It is better to check the sugar content of the juice before purchasing. People who are pregnant or nursing, and people who have liver or kidney conditions should ideally check with their doctor before consuming noni juice. Noni juice also contains high levels of potassium which may not be suitable for people with kidney problems.

Read more about: 10 Health Benefits of Giloy – The Ultimate Immunity Booster

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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