Difference between revisions of "Bankoro"

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Morinda littoralis Blanco
Other Common Names: noni, morinda, Indian mulberry, hog apple, canary wood
Latin Name: Morinda citrifolia

Local names: Apatot (Ilk.); apatot-nga-basit (Ilk.); bangkudo (Bis., Tag.); bangkuro (C. Bis.); bankoro (Tag., Mag.); bankuro (Tagb.); bankuru (Tag.); galongog (Sub.); lino (Bis., Tag.); nino (Sul., Tag., Bis.); rukurok (Kuy.); taeng-aso (Tag.); tumbong-aso (Tag.); Indian mulberry (Engl.).

Bankoro is found chiefly along or near the seashore throughout the Philippines. It also occurs in India to Polynesia.

This is an erect, smooth shrub or small tree 3 to 10 meters in height. The leaves are broadly elliptic to oblong, 12 to 25 centimeters long, and pointed or blunt at the tip. The peduncles are leaf-opposed, solitary, and 1 to 3 centimeters long. The flowers are not bracteolate and form dense, ovoid, or rounded heads, and are 1 to 1.5 centimeters in diameter. The calyx is truncate. The corolla is white and about 1 centimeter long; the limb is 5-lobed and 1 centimeter in diameter. The fruit is fleshy, white or greenish-white, ovoid, and 3 to 10 centimeters in length.

Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Cures for Diseases, Ailments & Illnesses that afflict Humans and Animals
Aloe Vera • Astragalus • Bankoro • Bilberry • Bitter Gourd (Ampalaya) • Bitter Orange • Black Cohosh • Cat's Claw • Chamomile • Chasteberry • Coconut • Cranberry • Dandelion • Echinacea • Ephedra • European Elder Tree • Evening Primrose • Fenugreek • Feverfew • Flaxseed • Garlic • Ginger • Ginkgo • Ginseng (Asian) • Golden Seal • Grape Seed • Green Tea • Hawthorn • Hoodia • Horse Chestnut • Kava • Lavender • Licorice • Malunggay Moringa Oleifera • Milk Thistle • Mistletoe • Passion Flower • Peppermint Oil • Red Clover • Ringworm Bush (Akapulko) – Cassia alata • Saw Palmetto • St. John's Wort • Tawa Tawa • Turmeric • Valerian • Yohimbe •
accept the bitter to get better

Fruits and Leaves of the bankoro tree

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:

The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Bankoro - Noni

From the Republic of the Philippines
Department of Agriculture Bureau of Plant Industry

According to Burkill the fruit, which smells like decaying cheese, is eaten in Indo-China with salt. The bark of the roots is used for cleansing the hair and sometimes for cleaning iron and steel. The tree is used in Malaya and Siam as a support for pepper plants. Heyne says that the young leaves may serve as a vegetable in Java.

Wehmer records that the root0bark contains a crystal glucoside, morindine (C27H10O15), and coloring-matter, morindine. The fruit contains volatile oil (morinda oil). Wehmer quotes Van Romburh, who distilled a chemically curious volatile oil from the fruit containing 90 per cent of n-capron and n-capryl acids, and also paraffin, fatty acid, ethyl-alcohol, etc. Guerrero states that in the Philippines the fruit is used as an emmenagogue. The leaves, when fresh, are applied ulcers to effect a rapid cure. The sap of the leaves is anti-arthritic.

According to Nadkarni the roots are used in India as a cathartic. Ridley, calls a decoction of the bark a coarse, strong astringent and adds that it is used by the Malaya for ague. Dewere writes that in the Congo the bark is reputed to be a febrifuge because of the presence of morindine. Degener states that the leaves and bark of the stem are pounded, cooked, and strained. This liquid is then drunks a tonic. It is a reputed medicine against tuberculosis in Hawaii. Burkill and Haniff state that it is not uncommon throughout the Malaysia to heat and apply the leaves to the chest or to the abdomen for coughs, enlarged spleen, nausea, colic, and fever. Nadkarni, Dymock, Crevost and Petelot, and Dey regard the leaves as deobstruent and emmenagogue in Indo-China. Dymock adds that in Bombay the leaves are used as a healing application to wounds and ulcers and are administered internally as a tonic and febrifuge. Nadkarni adds that the charred leaves made into a decoction with a little mustard are said to be a remedy for infantile diarrhea; with aromatics, the decoction is given in dysentery. The expressed juice of the leaves is applied to relieve pain in gout.

According to Burkill the over-ripe fruit is used as an emmenagogue both in Malaya and in Cochin-China. Gimlette and Burkill state that the juice is recommended for leucorrhoea and sapraemia. It is also recommended by Rumpf for dysuria, and the fruit for diabetes. Heyne reports that the fruit is sometimes used internally in various preparations for swollen spleen, liver diseases, beriberi, hemorrhage, and coughs. Ochse says that in Java the seeds are removed from the ripe fruit; the pulp is mashed with sugar; and the mixture is drunk as a slightly laxative preparation. Degener says that the over-ripe fruit is used also as a poultice and in treating diseases of the kidney. Nadkarni remarks that in India, the fruit is also used as an emmenagogue and a deobstruent. The unripe berries, charred and mixed with salt, are applied successfully to spongy gums. The juice of the fruit made into a syrup and used as a gargle relieves sore throat.

Bankoro - Noni: What the Science Says from the: National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)

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.
NCCAM-funded research includes a study on noni for cancer to determine its safety and potential effects on tumors and symptoms, as well as a laboratory study of noni’s effects on prostate cancer cells. The National Cancer Institute is funding preliminary research on noni for breast cancer prevention and treatment.

Bankoro - Noni: Side Effects and Cautions as per the: National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM)

Noni is high in potassium. People who are on potassium-restricted diets because of kidney problems should avoid using noni.
Several noni juice manufacturers have received warnings from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration about making unsupported health claims.
Few side effects from noni have been reported, but its safety has not been adequately studied.
There have been reports of liver damage from using noni. It should be avoided if you have liver disease because it contains compounds that may make your disease worse.
Tell all your health care providers about any complementary health practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care. For tips about talking with your health care providers about complementary and alternative medicine, see NCCAM's Time to Talk campaign.

News about Noni or Bankoro

Guam's own superfood

Source:http://www.guampdn.com/story/life/2015/05/28/wed-lead---0527/28004375/

(Pacific Daily News, Guam)

Call it noni, Indian mulberry, cheese fruit or by its scientific name Morinda citrifolai — whichever of its many names you choose, it's a superfood. For those of us on Guam, we call it lada. The fruit is pale yellow to white, but it's not exactly appetizing. Locals have been known to call it vomit fruit due to its potent scent. But while most people wouldn't pick it off of a tree and hungrily munch on it, consuming noni could lead to a host of health benefits.

There are over 150 phytochemicals that have been identified in noni, along with high levels of vitamins and minerals, says James Stith, owner of noni farm Star Seed Garden in Santa Rita.

The phytochemicals fight inflammation, bacteria, parasites and tumors, Stith says.

Stith is a huge believer in the power of noni, saying the fruit is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-parasitic. Consuming the fruit or its juice can improve digestion and increase immune activity, Stith says.

He also says it's high in antioxidants and can improve arthritis, diabetes and high blood pressure.

According to Dr. James Nozaki of the Guam Seventh-day Adventist Clinic in Tamuning, he's seen some patients with high blood pressure improve after beginning a noni regimen, but states it also could be due to overall lifestyle changes.

"I am not an expert in noni, nor am I a scientist researching noni. However, I have patients that reported that they observed positive changes," Nozaki says. "I don't know if it's the overall life changes that benefited them or exactly noni. The only measurable thing I can tell you is that when they tell me they started the noni, I noticed the blood pressure measured at the clinic has been observed to go down."

Stith says the proof is in his personal experiences with the healing power of the fruit.

Stith first witnessed the benefits of the superfood in 1998. His father was suffering from severe arthritis symptoms. After consuming noni, the arthritic lumps and pain symptoms disappeared, Stith says.

The most important benefits, according to Stith, are the anti-cancer benefits.

"Noni is a major anti-cancer preventative," Stith says. "I will admit, I haven't had any stage-four cancer patients report anything successful, possibly it's created longevity and comfort. I do know that those caught at earlier stages and were in remission, had reported prevention."

Stith himself has suffered from skin cancer. Working in the sun for many years as a boat captain and harbor pilot resulted in multiple diagnoses.

He started consuming noni and applying it to one of his lesions. After regular use, Stith saw the lesion gradually dissappear. Since then, he's continued to consume noni and has not seen his skin cancer return.

"I will say that it has been successful for me," says Stith.

Starting the garden

Stith followed his brother Robert to Guam as a teenager. His brother at that time was playing in a band that toured through Guam. They both fell in love with the island and opted to stay.

Now 40 years later, James Stith maintains Star Seed Garden and grows more than 200 noni trees in two locations. His wife of 10 years, Chika, helps him with the business.

After witnessing the benefits of noni on his father's arthritis, Stith says he wanted to make it available more consistently. So the Stith brothers decided to test out their green thumbs and grow some noni. James Stith discovered that noni grows well on Guam, and trees can be spotted growing wild in the jungles.

16 years

The brothers spent 16 years getting high-quality seeds from Hawaii and weeding out the better plants from the bunch. Through trial and error, they figured out how best to extract the juice, and learned that the fruit and seeds are the most beneficial, Stith says.

Their product line has grown from just the simple juice. The Stiths have created teas and capsules for those looking for the health benefits, but can't get past the unique flavor of noni.

The juice that claims to be good for all ailments

Source:http://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/the-juice-that-claims-to-be-good-for-all-ailments-1.765320

By DONAL O'MATHUNA

DOES IT WORK? Noni juice and general health

NONI JUICE IS one of several new fruit juices swept along by the recent interest in fruits and juices. Since 2003, noni juice has been approved in the European Union as a novel food. The juice is made from the fruit of the morinda tree ( Morinda citrifolia), a small evergreen that grows primarily among lava flows in the Pacific islands, southeast Asia and Australia.

The morinda has a long and diverse history of medicinal usage in Polynesian cultures. All parts of the tree and fruit are used to treat almost every ailment known. For the most part, however, these remedies were applied externally to treat wounds and infections.

In 1985, western interest began with a report in a botany journal claiming that unique chemicals had been identified in noni juice. The author claimed that noni juice contained a chemical called “proxeronine”, which was broken down in the body to release “xeronine”.

This xeronine was said to enter the cells of the body and heal any damage present. All of a sudden, noni was not just an exotic juice, but was said to have medicinal properties. However, the author of this report did not reference his sources and no one has ever identified proxeronine or xeronine.

Nevertheless, interest in noni juice has continued. The juice is said to be good for almost all ailments, but especially for gastric complaints. The claims got so out of hand that in 2004 the Food Safety Authority of Ireland issued a warning to consumers about the many unsubstantiated claims being made about noni juice.

Although the hype has decreased, websites can still be found today offering noni juice to Irish customers, claiming it will reduce cholesterol, boost energy levels, stimulate the immune system and support most of the body’s normal functions.

Research has begun looking at noni juice, but most has focused on identifying its ingredients. Noni juice contains a rich assortment of vitamins and minerals, especially potassium, vitamin C, carotene, vitamin A and fatty acids.

Several other compounds have been identified that have biological activity, but whether the juice contains enough of them to have specific medicinal effects has not been established. One evaluation of more than 170 different noni brands found that the amounts of these ingredients varied considerably between manufacturers.

Despite these preliminary investigations, controlled clinical studies have not been conducted to determine whether noni juice prevents or treats any condition.

No side effects have been reported in settings where people have been monitored while taking noni juice. However, much controversy exists over a small number of case studies in which patients developed liver problems after drinking noni juice daily for several weeks.

The reports suggested that noni juice might cause or exacerbate liver problems in some people, but a clear connection has never been demonstrated. Research conducted with human liver cells and published last month found no evidence that noni juice damages the liver.

Noni juice is high in potassium, which could be problematic for some people taking certain medications for high blood pressure. If you take such medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you should avoid fruits containing potassium.

Noni juice can contain a wide range of important vitamins and minerals. As such, the juice may be nutritious, although its taste is not to everyone’s liking. It also remains relatively expensive, with some brands costing more than €60 a litre.

However, different brands contain different amounts of nutrients. This may arise because different parts of the plant may be used in preparing different products. As for any specific health benefits from the juice, evidence does not exist to support such claims.

Raise a toast to your health with Noni juice

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/Raise-a-toast-to-your-health-with-Noni-juice/articleshow/35432825.cms

By Vinita Chaturvedi

Noni juice is derived from the fruit of a small evergreen plant called noni, also known as Indian mulberry normally found in global subtropics and tropics.

Botanical name Morinda citrifolia, noni belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is privileged as the 'queen' of the Morinda genus owing to its conspicuous attributes, versatile nature and distinctive capability of spreading itself usually on the seashores without requiring much human intervention. It is often one of the earliest species which grow on the freshly deposited lava flows typically in Hawaiian regions.

A long-established cure, noni is a plant with multiple benefits ranging from traditional usage of its wood for making tools to its juice being used as a first aid or for treating critical illnesses...

Antioxidant potential: Noni juice has a tremendous anti-oxidative potential which seeks out for the oxygen free radicals and neutralize their negative effects. A research conducted on the patients with heavy smoking habits making them vulnerable to many diseases have advocated the protective effect of noni juice in improving the radical scavenging potential of their bodies and providing relief from the diseases caused by oxidative stress.

Cancer: The anti-cancer qualities of noni juice have been traditionally trusted and advocated by the modern science. Various clinical and laboratory research have suggested the chemo-preventive properties of noni juice in the prevention of various cancers such as lung cancer, liver cancer and renal cancer owing to the abundance of healing antioxidants. As supported by another scientific finding, effectiveness of noni juice in reducing the risk of cancer attributes to its ability to block the carcinogen-DNA binding and prevent adduct formation. Furthermore evidences have revealed the efficacy of noni juice in retarding the tumor growth in mammary glands by significantly decreasing the weight and volume of the tumors in the subjects.

Gout: Morinda Citrifolia or noni juice extends its therapeutic effects in curing gout. The effectiveness of noni juice in curing such diseases attributes to its inhibitory action on the xanthine oxidase enzymes which are implicated in gout and its associated problems. Scientific research has also supported this curative effect of noni juice which has been in practice from over thousands of years.

General body fatigue: Noni juice is a time-honored medicine and was traditionally used by Polynesians to combat general body weakness and advancing quality of life and energy levels. Various clinical researches and studies have shown the ergogenic qualities of noni juice which helps in enhancing the tolerance, elasticity and overall physical performance of the body.

Liver protection: Noni fruit is also known for its effectiveness in protecting against the liver diseases. As supported by research study, noni juice exercises hepato-protective effects on the liver which assists in protecting the organ from exposures to chronic exogenous chemicals and defends against major illnesses like liver damage.

Anti-psychotic qualities: Noni juice has been historically utilized for treating a range of ailments including the disorders related to central nervous system. Studies investigating the anti-psychotic effects of noni juice have shown significant improvement in the subjects especially with respect to their behavioral issues and have demonstrated its huge potential to be used in curing psychiatric disorders. Additionally, noni juice has also been suggested to have therapeutic effect on the brain damage attributing to the curing power of natural chemical components. It may assist in preventing cerebral ischemic stress without affecting the efficacy of good enzymes and antioxidants functioning in the body.

Arthritis: Healing powers of noni juice brings relief in inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Scientific evaluation has provided qualitative evidence regarding the analgesic traits of noni juice which helps in alleviating pain and sensitivity thereby, reducing the joint destruction implicated in the painful arthritis. The study also suggested that the remedial efficacy of noni juice is at par with some of the well-known commercially available analgesic drugs.

Aid for memory impairment: Noni juice may exert protective effect in curing the problems of memory impairment. Studies conducted on subjects with weakened memory functions have suggested that consumption of noni juice encourages cerebral blood flow and helps improve memory functions.

Diabetes: Diabetic individuals may also benefit from the healing power of Morinda citrifolia or noni extracts. This has been proven by a research study which has shown the effectiveness of noni juice as a remedial herb for reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Scientific evidence has testified that consumption of noni juice helps in reducing the level of glycosylated hemoglobin, serum triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the body. In addition to this, it works towards enhancing insulin sensitivity and stimulates the uptake of glucose.

Wound healing: The juice of Morinda citrifolia or noni is effectual in speeding up healing of wounds. Research evaluating the wound curing properties of noni juice has revealed positive results with respect to the increase in the weight of the granulation tissues, functioning of collagen and hydroxyproline and protein content. As mentioned above, noni juice helps in reducing the blood sugar levels in the body which can also be correlated to the accelerated wound healing process.

Stronger immune defense: Strengthened immune system is yet another benefit of noni juice which accentuates its credibility. Since the earlier times noni juice has been valued for its effectiveness in fighting infections and other ailments attributing to the presence of valuable polysaccharides. These helpful components stimulate the activity of white blood cells which play an important role in exerting such protective effect. Scopoletin present in noni juice possess anti-bacterial, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and anti-histamine properties which significantly contribute in sustaining the immune defense mechanism of the body.

What Is a Noni Berry?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/noni-berry-4641.html

By Joanne Marie

Noni berry is the fruit of a tropical evergreen tree, Morinda citrifolia, found in Tahiti and other Polynesian islands. Sometimes called Indian mulberry, cheese fruit and wild pine, ripe noni fruit has white to yellow flesh and contains compounds that may have medicinal properties. Noni juice and other noni-derived products might help prevent certain health problems, but you should discuss these potential benefits with your doctor before consuming noni.

Noni Basics

Noni fruit is about the size of a small potato, with a bumpy surface and flesh that has a cheesy, somewhat unpleasant odor when ripe. Historically, Polynesian practitioners of traditional medicine recommended noni to treat many health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, various types of infections and generalized aches and pains. Noni is also part of the practice of Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, in which it has been used for centuries as a topical treatment to protect the skin from sun damage.

LComponents

Juice made from noni berries provides some nutrients, mostly carbohydrate in the form of two simple sugars, fructose and glucose, along with a small amount of protein. One hundred grams of juice, or about 3.5 ounces of liquid, provides about 10 grams of carbohydrate and 0.5 grams of protein. The juice also contains vitamin C, vitamin E and several of the B vitamins, and a small amount of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. Noni juice provides some calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron as well, and is a good source of potassium, with up to 150 milligrams per 100 grams, depending on the source of the juice. Noni fruit and juice also contain several natural, biologically active chemicals that may be responsible for the fruit's possible health benefits.

Potential Benefits

Noni contains about 160 natural plant compounds called phytochemicals. These include chemicals called glycosides, organic acids, terpenes and alkaloids. Some of these compounds may inhibit growth of bacteria, including those that cause tuberculosis and salmonella infections. Noni components may also have anti-cancer properties and might boost the immune system, helping suppress the growth of cancer. A study published in "Cancer Research" found that two compounds from noni fruit suppressed growth of cultured cancer cells in the laboratory. Another study in "Phytotherapy Research" concluded that the anti-tumor activity of noni juice in laboratory animals was due to improved performance of the animals' immune systems. These are promising results that need confirmation in studies on human subjects.

How To Use

Noni juice, noni extract and noni powder in capsules are generally available from health food stores. Topical gels, soaps and facial cleansers containing noni are also available at some pharmacies. Although noni-based products are generally considered safe, do not consume them if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you have diabetes, are pregnant or breast-feeding. In addition, if you consume noni juice, it may cause your urine to become pink or reddish in color. Discuss noni juice and supplements with your health care practitioner to decide if they are appropriate for your situation.

The Leaf Extract That Works Better Than Chemotherapy Against Lung Cancer

Source:http://www.care2.com/greenliving/the-leaf-extract-that-works-better-than-chemotherapy-against-lung-cancer.html

By Zoe Blarowski

The tropical noni tree (Morinda citrifolia) has been used for thousands of years to treat conditions such as cancer, cold, diabetes, flu, hypertension and pain.

Two recent Malaysian research studies found that noni is particularly effective against lung cancer compared to a common chemotherapy drug.

Both studies gave mice an alcohol-based extract of noni leaves or the FDA-approved anticancer drug Erlotinib for a period of 21 days.

The researchers concluded that the noni leaf extract suppressed lung cancer more effectively than Erlotinib. They also found that the noni extract actually enhanced other health indicators, whereas Erlotinib and many other chemotherapy drugs can cause harmful side effects.

The noni extract was found to bring the following benefits:

• Increased blood lymphocyte counts. Lymphocytes are an important part of your immune system that help fight disease and infections.

• Suppressed inflammation and swelling.

• Enhanced activity of tumor suppressor genes, which make proteins that help control cell growth.

• Inhibition of tumor growth-promoting genes.

Also, noni leaf extract is recognized as having no adverse effects up to a dosage of 1000 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). The studies used a dosage of 300 mg/kg of noni extract, with clear benefits. Higher dosages could have the potential for further benefits without any adverse side effects.

Another important implication of these studies is the cost of noni leaf extract compared to conventional chemotherapy drugs. Noni leaf extract can cost less than a dollar for one 300 mg dose. Whereas, Erlotinib can cost over $80 for one 50 mg dose, which was the dosage used in the studies.

Many other pharmaceutical chemotherapy drugs are also very expensive. The affordability of noni extract is yet another one of its benefits.

What is Noni?

Although originally from Southeast Asia, the noni tree is now cultivated throughout the tropics. It flowers and fruits year-round. The fruits are also known as cheese fruit because of their pungent odor and flavor. They are eaten in many countries despite their bitter taste.

Traditional Chinese Medicine has used the roots, known as Ba Ji Tian, to improve kidney, hormone and immune function, as well as treating cancer, gallbladder disorders, hernia and erectile dysfunction.

Polynesian healers have also traditionally used noni in many ways. For example, the bark is used for bacterial infections and stomach ailments, the flowers for irritated eyes or conjunctivitis, the fruit for asthma, depression, arthritis and broken bones, and the leaves used externally for burns or infections and internally for fevers and inflammation.

Several studies have shown that noni fruits have anti-inflammatory, anti-dementia, liver-protective, analgesic, anticancer and immunomodulatory effects. This research supports many of the traditional uses of noni.

Noni is not currently well-known in Western countries, but the extract may be available at your local natural foods store or found online. You might also find noni sold as a juice preparation or as a dry extract in capsules.

Noni is naturally high in potassium and it is not recommended for anyone with kidney disease or elevated potassium.

If you’re considering taking any type of noni supplement, always speak to your doctor before making any changes to your health routine.

What Are the Benefits of Morinda?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-morinda-7115.html

By Tracey Roizman, D.C. (Demand Media)

Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as noni, is the fruit of a tree native to Southeast Asia, where it has been consumed for 2,000 years. Distinguished by its cocoon-like shape and pungent odor, Morinda citrifolia is reputed to have remarkable health and medicinal benefits. Research has revealed evidence in support of some of Morinda citrifolia's traditional uses. Nutritional Contet

Morinda citrifolia is comprised of 5.8 percent protein, 36 percent fiber and 1.2 percent fat. A 1,200-milligram serving provides 2.26 international units of vitamin A, 9.81 milligrams of vitamin C and 32 milligrams of blood pressure-lowering potassium. However, more important than Morinda citrifolia's nutrient content is its phytonutrient content. Phytonutrients are compounds in plants that are not essential to life but that provide significant health benefits. A study published in the 2007 issue of the "International Journal of Food Properties" identified catechin and epicatechin -- flavonoid antioxidants with significant health-promoting benefits, including possible cancer and heart disease prevention, according to the University of California, Davis. Activity levels of Morinda citrifolia's flavonoids were observed to be higher than that of vitamin E or a synthetic antioxidant known as BHT.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Antioxidant effects of Morinda citrifolia protected heavy smokers from elevations in cholesterol, triglycerides and inflammation in a study published in the 2012 issue of "Scientific World Journal." Participants drank between 29.5 and 188 milliliters of Morinda citrifolia juice daily for one month. Results showed decreases in homocysteine, a marker for inflammation that, when elevated, is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers also noted that levels of low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, the bad form of cholesterol, decreased, while levels of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, the good form of cholesterol, increased in response to Morinda citrifolia supplementation.

Blood Sugar-Lowering

A fermented form of Morinda citrifolia might help prevent diabetes, according to a study published in the 2012 issue of the journal "Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine." In the laboratory study, supplementation for 90 days with Morinda citrifolia fermented with soy bean paste resulted in blood sugar levels half as high as those of a diabetic control group that did not receive Morinda citrifolia. Fermented Morinda citrifolia also decreased levels of hemoglobin A1c, a marker that reflects blood sugar levels for two to three months prior to the test. Additionally, Morinda citrifolia stimulated a gene that controls metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and stimulates cells to absorb glucose.

Immune-Boosting

Traditional use of Morinda citrifolia as a natural immune stimulant and antibiotic was supported by a study published in the July 2010 issue of the journal "Pharmaceutical Bulletin." The laboratory animal study found that Morinda citrifolia extract increased production of white blood cells by up to 36 percent and increased immune response by up to 33 percent. Researchers concluded that Morinda citrifolia exhibited robust immune-stimulating ability. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.

Noni Fruit Juice: Nature’s Present for Everybody

Source:http://buzzwow.news/noni-fruit-juice-natures-present-for-everybody/

(BuzzWow)

Morinda citrifolia, commonly called Noni is a native fruit that grows in Southeast Asia. Noni has actually been getting popularity in Western countries due to the fact that of its health benefits. This fruit is extensively utilized as standard medication for many health conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, menstrual problems, arthritis, breathing problems, bad food digestion, and much more. Noni is likewise rich in vitamin C and contains naturally happening vitamins, minerals, micronutrient, and enzymes. Because of the health benefits of this fruit, Noni is now readily available in different consumable types such as juice, liquid concentrate, tablet, and pill kind. The juice, which is reddish brown in color, is typically combined with other juices to make it taste much better.

Through using pasteurization process, makers guarantee that the Noni juice is free of germs and other dangerous microbes. This process also assists maintain the fruit or preserve extract’s advantageous homes. Noni juice is thought about as one of the most powerful natural beverages in the marketplace today. Many people who frequently consume Noni juice is attest that they have already experienced enhanced health due to the said drink.

Standard health benefits of Noni fruit juice consist of the following:

Alleviates and reinforces the heart palpitations; Fights insomnia and forgetfulness; Assists cure sexual dysfunction in senior individuals; Assists enhance the function of the body immune system; Has some anti-cancer homes and may avoid the development of certain cancers; Has actually been successfully utilized to deal with hepatitis-B; Has been made use of successfully for weight reduction; Helps the body detox, cleans the blood and develop the immune system; and Utilized as a treatment for bladder infections, diabetes, colds, and irregularity.

The typical dosage suggested by Noni juice makers is 4 ounces a day to be taken a minimum of 30 minutes before breakfast. Liquid focuses, on the other hand, can be taken 2 tablespoons daily.

A number of animal studies had been carried out to assess the beneficial results of Noni juice. Research study reveals that the said natural beverage has anti-cancer, pain-relieving, and immune-system improving potential. None juice is believed to be powerful adequate to increase one’s vitality and lead to enhanced total health and wellness.

Many nutrition books have, in truth, claim that Noni fruit juice is one of the most substantial discoveries in the field of medicine over the last couple of years. Since of the anti-aging and other health advantages of this juice it has actually gotten popularity over other type of natural fruit juices.

Nevertheless, it is necessary for consumers to make sure that they only purchase Noni fruit juice that has been thermally dealt with (pasteurized). The potency and health impacts of mass-produced Noni fruit juice are commonly jeopardized by contamination, heat, and low-grade manufacturing conditions.

Noni fruit juice is nature’s gift for individuals who prefer health and long life. It is not only stated to be efficient for relieving discomfort, it also has anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Noni juice is also filled with antioxidants that help cleanse the body of contaminants and enhances digestion health.

Try Noni fruit juice today and experience improvements in health and wellness.

Because of the health benefits of this fruit, Noni is now available in various consumable kinds such as juice, liquid concentrate, tablet, and capsule kind. The juice, which is reddish brown in color, is usually mixed with other juices to make it taste better.

Numerous people who routinely drink Noni juice is confirm that they have actually already experienced improved health due to the said beverage.

Noni fruit juice is nature’s gift for people who intend excellent health and long life. Noni juice is likewise complete of anti-oxidants that assist clean the body of contaminants and enhances digestion health.

What Are the Benefits of Noni Fruit?

Source:http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-noni-fruit-4718.html

By Don Amerman (Demand Media)

Polynesian herbalists and folk medicine practitioners have long prized the greenish-white fruit of the noni tree -- known scientifically as Morinda citrifolia -- for its medicinal properties. Although the tree is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, it grows today in most of the world’s tropical regions. What noni fruit lacks in visual appeal, it may well make up in health benefits, based on the findings of preliminary scientific studies.

May Protect Against Stroke Damage

Drinking the juice from noni fruit may help to protect you against the damage that a stroke can cause. Researchers at Japan’s Kobe Gakuin University conducted an animal study to determine if the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of noni juice would protect laboratory mice from the brain damage caused by a temporary interruption of cerebral blood flow. Researchers divided test animals into three groups. Over the course of seven days, one group received drinking water supplemented by 3 percent noni juice, another got 10 percent noni juice in its water and a control group received untreated water. On the seventh day, researchers obstructed the flow in the test animals’ middle cerebral arteries for a period of two hours. Once normal blood flow was restored, animals that received noni juice showed less neurological deficit than those in the control group. Researchers published their findings in a 2009 issue of “Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin.”

Analgesic Properties

Based on the traditional use of noni fruit to relieve the pain of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, a team of German researchers studied the effects of noni fruit in reducing sensitivity to pain among test animals. Researchers added a 10-percent solution of freeze-concentrated noni fruit puree to the drinking water of laboratory mice, which were then subjected to pain using a hot plate test. In an article in the January 2010 issue of “Phytotherapy Research,” they reported that the noni juice produced a reduction in pain sensitivity comparable to that of tramadol, a prescription analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain.

Helps Lower Cholesterol

Dyslipidemia -- elevated blood levels of cholesterol -- is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. A Pakistani-Saudi research team used water- and ethanol-based extracts of noni fruit, leaves and roots to treat laboratory rats in which dyslipidemia had been induced. They found that all three extracts significantly reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels in animals that had had dyslipidemia induced through the administration of a high-fat diet. Results were published in a 2010 issue of “Lipids in Health and Disease.”

Antibacterial Properties

Taking their cue from the traditional use of noni fruit to treat bacterial infections, a team of Indian researchers conducted in-vitro testing to determine how effective noni fruit extracts would be against three common bacteria responsible for a variety of illnesses. Using a number of agents, including chloroform, methanol, ethanol and acetone, they prepared extracts from dried noni fruit powder. They found that all extracts exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus vulgaris. In a 2009 issue of “Journal of Applied Chemical Research,” researchers expressed the hope that their findings will establish a platform for further studies into noni fruit’s antibacterial properties.

Noni Juice

Source:https://www.verywell.com/noni-juice-what-you-need-to-know-88326

By Cathy Wong, ND

What Should I Know About It?

What is Noni Juice?

Noni, also known as Morinda citrifolia, is a small, flowering shrub native to the Pacific islands, Polynesia, Asia, and Australia. It grows to a height of up to 10 feet high, and the leaves are dark green and oval shaped. The flower heads grow to become mature yellow fruit that have a strong odor.

Noni juice is widely available as the juice or liquid concentrate. It can also be found in tablet and capsule form.

Other popular antioxidants include goji berry, acai berry, mangosteen, camu camu and tart cherries.

Uses for Noni Juice

In traditional Polynesian medicine, noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit has been used for many health conditions, such as constipation, diarrhea, skin inflammation, infection, and mouth sores. It has an unpleasant odor and taste, so it is believed to be a last resort fruit by many cultures. Manufacturers today sweeten noni juice to improve the taste.

Traditionally, the leaves of the noni tree were used topically for healing wounds.

Noni juice, like the juice of many other fruits, is a source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The antioxidants may help to prevent certain diseases and help slow age-related changes in the body.

Animal studies evaluating the effects of noni suggest that it may have anti-cancer, pain-relieving, and immune system-enhancing effects. However, these studies mostly used extremely high doses that would be difficult to obtain from taking the juice.

More importantly, there's insufficient reliable evidence about the safety or effectiveness of noni for any health condition in humans.

Noni is heavily promoted for a very wide variety of conditions, such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, bladder infections, boils, bowel conditions, burns, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, circulatory weakness, colds, cold sores, constipation, diabetes, drug addiction, eye inflammation, fever, fractures, gastric ulcers, gingivitis, headaches, heart disease, hypertension, improved digestion, immune weakness, indigestion, kidney disease, malaria, menstrual cramps, menstrual disorders, mouth sores, respiratory disorders, ringworm, sinusitis, skin inflammation, sprains, strokes, thrush, and wounds.

There is no real evidence, however, that noni is effective for these conditions.

Caveats

Noni juice is high in potassium, so it should be avoided by people with kidney disease or those taking ,potassium-sparing diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, because it may result in hyperkalemia (dangerous elevation of potassium levels).

Noni hasn't been tested for safety in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications. You can get tips on using supplements here but should always speak with your primary care provider before using supplements or alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.

Mulberry In Ayurveda

Source:http://homeofayurveda.org/tag/indian-mulberry/

(Ayurveda Acharya, Kerala - Home of Ayurveda)

The word ‘mulberry’ is usually associated with silkworms, but the Indian Mulberry also plays an important role in Ayurveda, the world’s oldest system of holistic healing. The plant grows in many parts of India, and one variety especially does well in the southern states like Kerala, as this species flourishes in warm balmy weather. The powdered extracts from the roots, leaves and fruit of the Indian Mulberry, which is known as ‘Noni’, have been traditionally used as a sedative and for many other Ayurvedic medicinal purposes. The plant, which can grow up to 9 m tall, has large, simple, dark green, shiny and deeply veined leaves. Some species grow well well on sandy or rocky shores and apart from saline conditions, the plant also can withstand drought.

The Indian Mulberry has flowers and fruits all year round. The flowers are small and white. The fruit is a multiple fruit that has a pungent odor when ripening. Mulberries are eaten as fruit and are also used to make, juices, sauces, muffins, cakes, cookies, tarts, wines, ice creams, smoothies, yogurt and jam. Sherbets are made from black, red and white mulberries…and of course Mulberry leaves are the only source of food for silkworms.

Mulberries are a literal powerhouse of nutrition. They are very rich in Vitamins B C, K and the element iron. Good levels of fiber, riboflavin, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, potassium and calcium are also found in mulberries. They are an excellent source of the antioxidants resveratrol, zeaxanthin, lutein ,and to a lesser extent the alpha and beta carotene. The leaves contain 18 amino acids, while the fruit mulberry contains a number of phytochemicals, including lignans, oligo- and polysaccharides, flavonoids, iridoids, fatty acids, scopoletin, catechin, beta-sitosterol, damnacanthal, and alkaloids.

Role in Ayurveda

Various parts of the Indian mulberry are used for medicinal purposes, such as containing fever, and also as a tonic. Eye problems, skin wounds, gum and throat problems, respiratory problems, constipation, stomach pains and post delivery pains are treated using its leaves, flowers, fruit and bark. The leaves are used in a gargle for throat infections, while heated leaves of the plant are applied to the chest, in order to relieve coughs, nausea and colic. The fruits are used to treat fever, depression, and sore throat as they are cooling. The bark of the Mulberry root is used as purgative and anthelmintic, while its juice is used to treat high blood pressure.

Mulberries are used in Ayurvedic preparations to reduce cholesterol, prevent blood clots and heart palpitations as well as to aid in weight loss, build immunity, benefit the digestive system, enhance appetite and check anemia and insomnia. Mulberry is also used in Ayurveda to soothe the nerves, relieve tiredness and fatigue. A simple home remedy for mouth ulcers and enlarged glands is to gargle with a solution of mulberry sherbet. Add 1 tsp of mulberry sherbet to a cup of water to make this solution. Interestingly, some recent studies conducted on Indian mulberry have suggested that it is capable of inhibiting the formation and growth of cancer cells. It activates the immune system of the body and has shown promise in helping combat leukemia, which is induced by retrovirus infection. So the next time you come across the word “mulberry”, don’t just think of silkworms or jams and jellies- think of Ayurveda and the myriads of ways this system of healing uses the Mulberry for your good health.

Benefits of noni fruit

Source:http://www.deccanherald.com/content/258906/benefits-noni-fruit.html

By Sumana Bharadwaj

Morinda citrifolia, Hawaiin Noni or the Indian Mulberry is a tropical shrub from the coffee family, Rubiaceae. Although native to Southeast Asia and Australia, it is widely-grown in India in coastal regions. It can grow in different environments and is a perennial fruit.

Traditionally, the noni fruit and leaves have been used as folk remedies by Polynesians for over 2000 years. There is a mention of the noni fruit being used as an internal cleanser and as an effective treatment for joint aches and skin conditions in Ayurveda and Siddha texts. In recent times, however, extensive research carried out across the globe on noni’s active principles has put noni on the scientist’s radar the world over, as a fruit with immense therapeutic potential for various conditions ranging from menstrual pain to cancer prevention and noni juice as a health boosting tonic because of its exceptional nutrient content. European communities are patrons of this fruit, having officially recognised it as the “super fruit” in the UK.

This super fruit has over 150 phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are compounds found in plants apart from vitamins, minerals and macronutrients. Phytonutrients have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, immune-boosting and cellular repair properties.

Some of the recognised phytonutrients in the noni fruit are organic compounds called anthraquinones, which act as anti-bacterial agents. Another important phytonutrient is proxeronine, precursor for xeronine, an alkaloid, which works at the molecular level, repairing damaged cells to improve functionality. Noni juice is a source of antioxidants. Further, studies have found the fruit to have central analgesic effect on the human body.

Clinical trials conducted at the Natural Healing Institute in California found that noni stimulates the production of T-cells in the immune system. T-cells play a pivotal role in fighting disease. The polysaccharide components in the juice are known to have both cancer-preventive and cancer-treating effects through stimulation of the immune system. It has bioactive components that make it a wonderful adaptogen, ie, the ability enhances the body’s ability to adapt to stress by targeting imbalances and normalising it without affecting normal bodily functions.

The noni fruit is also a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, several B complex vitamins, calcium, sulphur, potassium, phosphorous and certain essential amino acids like phenylalanine and tyrosine.

The fruit has a strong odour and an unpalatable taste and hence is available only in juice form in the market.

Choose the right brand of juice

• Check the company’s sources and quality of the fruits. Local sources are better than those where the fruit or its frozen concentrates are transported across miles before processing

• Check the company’s processing facilities

• Choose juice brands without any thickeners or stabilisers which are added to maintain uniform viscosity

• Choose one with natural preservatives, if at all, like lemon and honey

• Choose one in which noni juice is the primary ingredient, not a blend of various juices as it reduces efficacy.

Noni juice that meets the above criteria can be taken as a therapeutic drink or as a general tonic twice a day at least 30 minutes before food for effective absorption. Ten to 15 ml is the normal dosage for adults and can be had as is or mixed in a glass of water.

It can be consumed by people with arthritis, high BP, diabetes, cancer, allergies, digestive problems, chronic fatigue and depression. Its high potassium content can combat kidney problems.

South Pacific noni plant, nature's answer to pain relief

Source:http://www.malibutimes.com/blogs/article_90e358da-77b6-11e2-8b90-0019bb2963f4.html

By Reese Halter

During a quarter-century of studying forests, one of the most amazing plants that I have ever come across is the South Pacific noni or Morinda citrifolia.

This small blossoming shrub with its dark glossy, one-foot-long evergreen leaves is indigenous to Tahiti, southeastern Asia and Australia. It has been introduced into China, India, parts of Africa and the Americas.

About 1,500 years ago the Polynesians took noni seeds with them as they colonized the South Pacific Islands, including Hawaii.

The noni plant produces egg-shaped fruits with indented pit-marks. Its tasteless yellowish white skin becomes near transparent when the fruit ripens. The ripened pulp, on the other hand, smells of strong cheese and the extracted pulp juice is quite bitter.

The fruits contain reddish-brown seeds that float in the ocean and accounts for nonis’ widespread global distribution. Noni flourishes under harsh environmental conditions including the onslaught of salt, drought, sandy Australian soils, porous volcanic Hawaiian soils and the nutrient-poor limestone soils of Guam.

Noni fruit was an important food source for Australian, Burmese, Fijian and Samonian Aboriginals. The red dye from the bark and yellow dye from the roots were also used extensively by these peoples in clothing.

Noni roots, flowers, seeds, leaves, bark and fruits are used as medicine for a host of different maladies. Noni can be taken as a capsule, juice or as an extract and is also available in powder for pets.

Noni’s medicinal properties are believed to enhance the thyroid and thymus glands, which fend off infections.

People take noni by mouth for liver disease, diabetes, depression, high blood pressure and nausea, just to name a few conditions.

Noni’s fruit juice is taken for arthritis, headaches, menstrual difficulties and muscle aches, among others. Medicines have incorporated its leaves for swelling of the joints, rheumatic aches and stomachache.

This remarkable South Pacific plant packs a tremendous natural punch.

Healthy fruit - Benefit noni fruit - Mengkudu

Source:http://www.thecambodiaherald.com/health/healthy-fruit---benefit-noni-fruit---mengkudu-1578

(The Cambodia Herald)

Originated from wild plants, ugly and smelled rotten, noni are now rising prestige of the food, beverage and alternative herbal medicine. Not delicacy of taste, but because of the many benefits for health.

According to Pacific Journal of Science (1949), noni (Morinda citrifolia L) probably originated from Indonesia. Plants are also known as Pace or noni fruit, the shape of a pear. Green when young and yellowish-white change if begin to mature. Other traits, the fruit skin surface nod and eyes filled with blackish brown, very sour taste with a distinctive aroma is very sharp when the old and mature. Not unexpectedly, the plant is known as wild plants, ugly and foul-smelling, now changed into a fruit "miraculous" that many in the search. The popularity of noni research is inseparable from several studies. The result was unexpected, substances contained in the noni is very beneficial for the health aspect.

Benefits of noni fruit has been known to humans since 2000 years ago. Polynesian islanders, Chinese and Indians who first take advantage of special features. Furthermore, this knowledge spread to Australia, Tahiti, Canada, Malaysia and finally to Indonesia.

In Indonesia, especially in rural communities has actually been taking noni long ago. Javanese people familiar with the duck salad which one is the fruit of this material, while the young leaves of some people to process the material to be eaten raw as a vegetable or fresh vegetables. Only in the 1990s noni more widely known. The popularity of noni success can not be separated from the Bogor Institute of Food Business Review (LPBP), an institute researcher who examined the first Indonesian to human health benefits of noni.

Compounds containing efficacious medicine

If you want to get the maximum benefits of the noni fruit, the consumption of fruit that are old or mature, more mature research results show the beneficial substances that are growing. Among the content of anthraquinone compounds as anti-bacteria and fungi, turpentine rejuvenate the body cells to function, dammacanthel that can prevent cancer cell growth and fight the growth of abnormal cells in the pre-stage cancer. Fruit water content within this 52% also store a variety of vitamins, including ascorbic acid, acid kaproat, kaprik acid and caprylic acid which can ward off cancer-causing free radicals.

The popularity of noni are now growing worldwide, especially after Dr. Solomon Heil doing therapy to 8000 patients. The results were very encouraging, giving noni juice provides a continuous positive correlation to cure cancer, heart disease, control hypertension, digestive disorders, diabetes and stroke. Besides noni juice is also believed to increase endurance and stamina and help cure tuberculosis (TB). Noni is also rich in fiber is good for digestive tract health. The many benefits of noni owned, so worthy that the scientists dubbed it as the Magic Fruit aka the magical fruit.

Noni Product Range

Many people are not like the smell of noni as stinking and sour taste. Do not worry, this time a variety of products like noni many outstanding results in the market. Starting from a wide taste of noni juice, noni tablets until the form of capsules we can easily get. Even not only that, body care products and cosmetics such as shampoo, soap, body lotion etc are also using mulberry raw materials.

Create you who like to consume fresh noni, the following tips can help reduce the unpleasant smell of noni and sour taste. Combine juice / noni juice that has been filtered, with brown sugar or honey. Store in the place clean, cool and sealed for 2-4 days, and then ready to drink juice without the stinging stench becomes sweet and fresh taste. This storage process will parse the ascorbic acid, and kaprik kaproat causes stink. But keep in mind, do not store it too long because it will cause the formation of an alcohol compound a drunk.

Noni cancer study underway

Source:http://www.kitv.com/story/30922783/noni-cancer-study-underway

By Paula Akana

HONOLULU - The UH Cancer Center is taking on prostate cancer. It's the most common cancer among men in Hawaii, and the center hopes noni extract can help make cancer no more. The noni is that pungent fruit found throughout Polynesia and Asia. The trial involves low or very low risk patients prostate cancer.

Jeffrey Huang is the Principal Investigator for the study.

“So generally, the treatment for these patients is either active surveillance or what we call waiting. So we don’t necessarily have to treat these patients with toxic chemo and that sort of thing. So it gives us a very good opportunity to be able to use a noni product, a more natural product, herbal remedy to see if there are any changes in their prostate cancer," he said.

In this trial, patients take daily noni capsules. The amount needed per dose was already determined during past trials.

“So our patients would be taking noni about a year and then we’ll see if there are any signs of genetic changes within a year,” said Huang.

There will be monthly checkups including blood draws to detect any changes. Past research has found anti-cancer properties in the extract. The noni extract for the capsules comes from a Big Island company called Healing Noni.

The company has been farming noni for 17 years and is excited about the clinical trials and what they might prove regarding the health benefits of noni.

The clinical trial began a few weeks and they are hoping to get more patients involved. If you are interested, contact your primary care physician or oncologist.

This Indian Plant Could Prevent Cataracts

Source:http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/food-and-nutrition-articles/this-indian-plant-could-prevent-cataracts

(The Doctors Health Press Editorial Board)

Have you ever looked through the grease-smeared window of the mechanic’s shop? Do you feel like that’s what your eyesight is like all the time? If so, then you may have a cataract. So many older individuals suffer from this condition that it has become the leading vision problem in America. Luckily, you could protect yourself from cataracts with alternative therapies. Just recently, a clinical trial has reported this health news: Indian mulberry, or noni, could be alternative cure for preventing cataracts.

In the clinical trial, researchers studied the anti-cataract activity of selected plants. Among the tested plants, a water extract of Indian mulberry exhibited maximum “aldose reductase” inhibitory activity as compared to other plant extracts. Aldose reductase inhibitors are a class of drugs being studied as a way to prevent eye and nerve damage in people with diabetes. The researchers also found that Indian mulberry possesses significant anti-cataract potential to maintain lens opacity.

Who is likely to get cataracts? There are a few diseases that can encourage their development. Diabetes is one of the primary conditions linked to this eye problem. However, eye injuries or inflammation can also encourage the protein deposits that lead to cataracts, as can some drugs, such as prednisone (a corticosteroid used in inflammatory conditions like arthritis). If you suspect a drug you’re taking may be the cause behind your cataracts, talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.

Another big cause of cataracts is exposure to ultraviolet light and radiation. This is one reason why cataracts may develop as you age. The more years you spend exposed to the rays from the sun, the more likely you are to suffer damage to the lens of the eye. In fact, scientists recently linked the increase in cases of cataracts to the depletion of our ozone layer. So get a good pair sunglasses and wear them as much as you can when outside!

A-Z of healthy ingredients: what is noni and how do I eat it?

Source:http://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/foodanddrink/a-z-of-healthy-ingredients-what-is-noni-and-how-do-i-eat-it-10304890.html

By Grace McCloud

Last week it was all about matcha. This week, Grace McCloud helps to demystify noni, a rather pungent healthy ingredient

Pronunciation: No-nee

Taste Notes: Quite revolting. Some people find it bearable, others think it’s awful, with its notes of off coconut and rancid cheese. Nice.

What actually is it?

Noni is the fruit of a shrubby plant related to coffee, indigenous to South East Asia, Polynesia, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. About the size of a baking potato, the noni fruit has a waxy, greenish-yellow skin covered in callousy-looking knobbles – a bit like a giant caterpillar. Sound enticing? This poor fruit gets bad press – yes, it looks hideous, smells disgusting and tastes even worse, but considering people have been extolling its healing properties for thousands of years, there has to be some method to the madness of putting this in your mouth, scientific or less so.

The difficulty when researching noni (researching any complementary medicine, dietary or not, is vital before you start using it) is that there is very little science behind the claims. Since it’s only been on the Western radar for about 50 years, studies are preliminary. People claim noni is a miracle preventative and curative, purportedly helping with everything from high blood pressure and blood clots to increasing energy, aiding weight loss, asthma, eczema and stress (and therefore, indirectly, cancer, strokes and coronary heart disease). Too good to be true? Perhaps. So until there is more concrete evidence, it might be wise to keep this in mind. There are, however, no adverse affects of ingesting noni – so while you won’t be harming yourself, you just may not be helping yourself as much as you think. That said, noni is remarkably high in potassium (vitamin K), which is essential in keeping heart, nerves and muscles working the way they should.

What’s its history?

It’s thought the plant originated in South East Asia before being taken to French Polynesia by settlers, around 2000 years ago. A number of ancient texts suggest noni has been used as a medicinal plant in Samoa, Tahiti, ancient India and Hawaii, both as a dietary supplement and a topical ointment for the treatment of skin problems. The juice has historically been used to treat gum infections, mouth ulcers, sore throats and menstrual irregularity, while the root was thought to help with fevers. Leaves were often rubbed on to ulcers and wounds, acting as both an anti-bacterial and an analgesic (pain-killer). It’s also thought that ancient Filipinos fermented the fruit and made it into a jam. Modern science would suggest this probably did actually help with gut and stomach problems! More recently, supermodel Miranda Kerr has said she has drunk it every day since she was 12, which might be why her skin looks so good.

How do I eat it?

The easiest way to get your noni fix is by drinking the juice, which often comes fermented. It’s not nice – a bit like drinking cod liver oil in the old days – but if it does work, then perhaps it’s worth it, particularly as there is evidence that fermented foods encourage the growth of healthy flora in the gut, giving your digestive system a super boost. It’s also possible to buy noni in powdered form, which is good for smoothies. Blending it with the strong flavours of banana, cinnamon, carrot and spinach is a good way to disguise the pongy flavour – one idea is a noni colada. Just blend coconut milk, some chunks of fresh pinapple, pinches of both cinnamon and nutmeg with a teaspoon of noni powder. Add half a banana if the taste is still too strong. Noninoni Wellbeing also has some good recipe ideas.

Noni Fruit: The Pacific Healer

Source:http://www.foxnews.com/health/2010/03/17/noni-fruit-pacific-healer.html

By Chris Kilham (Fox News)

Native to Southeast Asia, noni (Morinda citrifolia) was domesticated and cultivated by Polynesians, first in Tahiti and the Marquesas, and eventually in the farthest outpost of their culture, Hawaii. Today noni ranges from Tahiti to India, and grows in the Caribbean, South America and the West Indies. The name "noni" is Polynesian. Over the past several years, noni fruit and its juice have become popular in the natural heath sector.

Morinda citrifolia is a small tree which grows up to 10 m

Bankoro - Noni: Eyes or bumps

The bankoro or noni fruit is a "multiple" fruit. The fruit is not formed from a single flower. Each flower of the bankoro or noni bears a seed and as it matures it leaves an eye. There are multitudes of these flowers. The flowers do not come up all at one time. The flowers come up a few at a time to form the "final" fruit. That is why the bankoro or noni looks bumpy with lots of eyes like the pineapple.

Flower forms the eye
Flower forms the eye

Photo Gallery of Bankoro or Noni

Almost Ripe Bankoro Fruit
Ripe Noni or Bankoro
Cluster of Bankoro Leaves and Fruits
Noni Bankoro Tree in a Pot
Noni Bankoro Leaves
Noni Bankoro Leaves and Young Fruit
Bankoro or Noni flowers shaping into a fruit
Ripe Noni or Bankoro
Noni Bankoro Flower
Noni Bankoro Flower
Noni Bankoro young fruit
Noni Bankoro Flower
young fruit of Noni
Flowering Fruit of Bankoro Noni
Flowering Fruit of Bankoro Noni
Flowering Fruit of Bankoro Noni
Flowering Fruit of Bankoro Noni
Young Bankoro Noni Tree
Morinda Citrifolia (Bankoro - Noni) Leaf
Bankoro Noni Seeds
Bankoro Noni Seeds
Ripe Bankoro - Noni Fruit
Bankoro hanging
Ripe fruit Next to Flowering Fruit
Flowering Fruit of the Bankoro Noni
Bankoro or Noni green fruit