One of the latest superfoods to hit the health supplement market is the Noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia). Although few allergic reactions to Noni have been reported, it is advisable to ingest small amounts (one tablespoon of the juice) to start with, as a test for adverse reactions. Noni should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, as there is insufficient evidence of its safety during pregnancy or for infants.
General side effects of Noni
Reported side effects from the use of Noni include bad breath, headaches, bloating, gas, foul smelling urine, indigestion and cough. Of the individuals who reported non-allergic side effects, most noted that the adverse effects generally subsided within 72 hours after decreasing the dosage of Noni. In some regions of the world Noni is used as a laxative. Therefore, some people using higher concentrations of Noni juice may experience diarrhea.
Adverse effects of Noni
Just like with many other medicinal herbal products, consuming an excessive amount of Noni can be harmful. Take care not to use more than the recommend doses. Seek the advice of a doctor if using Noni over an extended period of time.
The most severe side effects of Noni can include difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, heavy periods in women, joint aches, diarrhea, itching and rash, tiredness, pimples and boils.
Despite being approved as a Novel Food by the European Commission in 2003, liver toxicology issues have been reported in a minority of users. However, a recent study found no link between adverse effects on liver and consumption of Noni juice, but cautioned that clinical data are essentially lacking.
Diabetic patients should be cautious when drinking Noni juice. In common with other fruit, the Noni fruit is high in sugar and can increase blood glucose levels.
Allergic side effects of Noni
A small percentage of people taking Noni have allergic side effects such as belching and gas, nausea and vomiting, but these effects disappear within a period of 24 hours. Some of the more serious side effects of Noni occur in individuals whose bodies are hypersensitive to Noni.
Some reports indicate that Noni juice consumption can trigger coughing and difficulty breathing. If you experience excessive coughing after consuming Noni juice, you are encouraged to consult your physician.
In regards to headaches, gas, bad breath, joint pain, foul smelling urine, and heavy periods, researchers say these side effects tend to occur with individuals whose bodies are intolerant to Noni juice as a health supplement. People who experience these negative side effects should consult with their doctors before continuing to take Noni juice.
Reducing the Side Effects to Noni Juice
It is advisable to increase the amount of water drunk while consuming Noni juice. It is believed that the addition of freshly squeezed lemon juice in Noni juice can reduce some of the negative side effects.
Noni interaction with prescription drugs
The use of Noni with potassium-sparing drugs is not recommended, due to the high potassium content in the herb. Noni juice may increase the risk of hyperkalemia (higher than normal blood potassium levels) in patients with kidney problems by elevating potassium levels in the body. Noni can cause discoloration of the urine and may interfere with diagnostic urine tests.
Preparations of Noni
Noni comes in several forms that include: bottled fruit juice; capsules containing dried fruit, leaves, roots, or combinations thereof; tablets; teas; essential oil; and topical sprays. Noni is best taken on an empty stomach, and can be consumed daily. Organically grown sources of the supplement are recommended.
Recommended dosages of Noni
Manufacturers’ recommended doses for Noni capsules, tablets, and teas should be adhered to. It is recommended that Noni not be taken with food, as digestive juices may render one of its active ingredients ineffective. Between one quarter of an ounce and one ounce of the juice is a recommended daily dosage for adults. Up to ten ounces of the juice may be taken for therapeutic use of Noni. In capsule form, it is estimated that 1,200 mg equals roughly one ounce of Noni juice.
Powdered Noni requires special preparation. Eight grams of powder should be added to 4 cups of boiling water until the liquid is reduced to two cups. Each cup is one dose.Keep cold until consumed.