Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about noni-common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Noni is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows throughout the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean, from Southeast Asia to Australia and especially in Polynesia.

Common Names-noni, morinda, Indian mulberry, hog apple, canary wood

Latin Names-Morinda citrifolia

Top

What It Is Used For

• Noni has been traditionally used in Polynesia as a dye, but it also has a history of use as a topical preparation for joint pain and skin conditions.
• Today, people drink noni fruit juice as a general health tonic, as well as for cancer and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Top

How It Is Used

• Traditionally, the leaves and fruit of noni have been used for health purposes.
• Today, the fruit is most commonly combined with other fruits (such as grape) to make juice. Preparations of the fruit and leaves are also available in capsules, tablets, and teas.

What the Science Says

• In laboratory research, noni has shown antioxidant, immune-stimulating, and tumor-fighting properties. These results suggest that noni may warrant further study for conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, noni has not been well studied in people for any health condition.
• Recent NCCAM-funded research includes a study on noni for cancer to determine its safety and potential effects on tumors and symptoms. The National Cancer Institute is funding preliminary research on noni for breast cancer prevention and treatment.