Noni is a small evergreen tree native to tropical islands in the Pacific region. Known by the scientific name Morinda citrifolia, the noni tree is in the coffee family. This bushy tree attains a height between 10 and 20 feet (3 and 6 meters) at maturity. It is known for its hardiness and ability to tolerate different types of soil and different conditions ranging from arid to wet. Noni has been used medicinally for thousand of years and has other uses as well.
All parts of the plant can be used in various ways. For example, the roots and bark contain pigments used to make dye, and the leaves and roots can be made into food. The trunk of the tree serves for construction, to make tools, and for firewood. Every part of the plant contains medicinal properties that treat various afflictions, with the noni fruit the part of the plant most commonly employed. This medically beneficial tree produces fruit 365 days a year.
Noni is commonly known as the headache tree, since it has analgesic properties that can relieve tension and migraine headaches. The fruit juice is also effective in relieving the pain of backaches, sore muscles, and nerve pain. It can be taken internally and it can also be used topically to treat various skin disorders.
A poultice can be employed to help clear up skin ulcers, itchy rashes, and skin inflammations. Topical application can also ease the pain and swelling of boils, bruises, burns, and other types of injuries. Noni contains antibiotic and antiseptic properties that promote the healing of cellulitis, a bacterial infection that can be caused by any break in the skin, such as an insect or animal bite, cut, or scratch. The juice is also an effective treatment for parasites such as head lice and scabies, mites that bore into the skin, causing a rash with intense itching. It also can heal fungal infections like ringworm.
When taken internally, noni is an effective treatment for various gastrointestinal disorders, including ulcers, nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion. It also improves the cardiovascular system, lowering high blood pressure and reducing the chances of stroke. Noni is an excellent source of antioxidants that can reduce the number of free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to disease. It also contains a number of nutrients, including vitamins A, B3, and C, calcium, potassium, and iron.