The effects of Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) on the immune system: Its molecular mechanisms of action

Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) from the family Rubiaceae has been used by Polynesians for over 2000 years for two main purposes. First, the roots and the barks have been used as a dye for traditional and ceremonial clothes. Second, every part of the plant has been used medicinally in treating a variety of ailments.

The advent of Tahitian Noni Juice (TNJ) in fuelled an increase in scientific research into its possible effects on human health. In addition to traditional uses, recent research on the effect of the polysaccharide-rich ethanol-insoluble precipi-tate of noni (noni-ppt) in the Lewis Lung Carcinoma in mice, has prompted studies into the possible mechanisms involved in its anticancer activity and immunity-enhancement effects. Hirazumi et al. reported that noni-ppt may exhibit anti-tumor effects in mice by acting as an immunomodulator.

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