Morinda
Also known as: Morinda officinalis, Morinda citrifolia, Morinda, Noni
Overview
Morinda encompasses plants from the *Morinda* genus, primarily *Morinda officinalis* and *Morinda citrifolia*. *M. officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules, derived from root extracts, are mainly researched for their antidepressant effects in individuals with mild to moderate depression. *M. citrifolia*, commonly known as noni, is utilized for its fruit, which is processed into juice and other preparations, and is investigated for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties. *M. officinalis* oligosaccharides have demonstrated comparable efficacy to conventional antidepressants in clinical trials. *M. citrifolia* contains a variety of bioactive phytochemicals exhibiting antioxidant activity and potential adjunctive therapeutic benefits. Both species have a history of traditional use in Asian and Polynesian medicine.
Benefits
*Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules have demonstrated efficacy in treating mild to moderate depression, showing non-inferiority compared to antidepressants, with a risk ratio (RR) of 0.99 (95% CI 0.92–1.06). This suggests a clinically comparable antidepressant effect with a similar safety profile. Adults with mild to moderate depressive disorder may benefit from *M. officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules. *Morinda citrifolia* exhibits antioxidant effects and potential anticancer properties, supported by preclinical studies and some human data, though exact effect sizes vary and require further clinical validation. It may also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Further research is needed to fully establish the clinical significance and population-specific benefits of *M. citrifolia*.
How it works
*Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharides may modulate neurotransmitter systems involved in depression, though the precise molecular targets require further elucidation. It primarily interacts with the central nervous system. *Morinda citrifolia* exerts antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and modulating inflammatory pathways, leading to systemic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Oligosaccharides from *M. officinalis* are orally bioavailable in capsule form. The bioavailability of *M. citrifolia* phytochemicals varies by preparation; juice and extracts are common forms. Research suggests involvement of neurotransmitter regulation and oxidative stress pathways, but the exact mechanisms are not fully characterized.
Side effects
*Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules have a safety profile comparable to antidepressants, with no significant increase in adverse events. *Morinda citrifolia* is generally considered safe, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort being the most commonly reported side effect. However, rare cases of fatigue, headache, vomiting, pigmentation changes, and acute hepatitis have been reported with high-dose, long-term use. Caution is advised when combining Morinda with other antidepressants or hepatotoxic drugs due to potential drug interactions. While contraindications are not explicitly defined, caution is advised for individuals with liver disease when using *M. citrifolia*. Limited data exists regarding the safety of Morinda in pregnant or lactating women, children, and individuals with severe psychiatric conditions.
Dosage
Specific dosing for *Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules varies by study, but clinical trials typically use standardized capsule formulations. Optimal dosage ranges are not detailed in the summaries but are consistent with capsule formulations used in clinical trials. The maximum safe dose is not well established, and high doses of *Morinda citrifolia* have been linked to adverse events. For *M. officinalis*, regular daily dosing is aligned with antidepressant treatment regimens, administered in capsule form. For *M. citrifolia*, juice or fruit extracts are common forms. Both are administered orally with standard bioavailability. There are no reported required cofactors.
FAQs
Is Morinda effective for depression?
Yes, *Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharide capsules have shown efficacy comparable to conventional antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression.
Is Morinda safe for long-term use?
*M. officinalis* appears safe with similar adverse event rates to antidepressants. *M. citrifolia* is generally safe but requires caution at high doses and long-term use due to rare hepatotoxicity.
How long before effects are seen?
Effects on depression typically align with antidepressant timelines—several weeks.
Can Morinda be combined with other antidepressants?
There is limited data; caution and medical supervision are advised.
Are there differences between Morinda species?
Yes, *M. officinalis* is mainly studied for depression, while *M. citrifolia* is studied for its antioxidant and anticancer properties.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32997072/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 RCTs (n=1,384) found that *Morinda officinalis* oligosaccharide (MOO) capsules were non-inferior to antidepressants for treating mild to moderate depression (RR=0.99, 95% CI 0.92–1.06). The study also reported no significant difference in adverse events between MOO capsules and antidepressants (RR=0.84, 95% CI 0.65–1.07), though the evidence for adverse events was of low quality.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8136385/ – This article discusses the use of *Morinda officinalis* for depression. It highlights that *Morinda officinalis* has been used traditionally for its antidepressant properties and reviews the current research supporting its efficacy and safety in treating depressive disorders. The review emphasizes the potential of *Morinda officinalis* as a natural alternative for managing depression.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/14/3/295 – This comprehensive review synthesizes recent studies (2018–2023) on *Morinda citrifolia* (Noni), identifying bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer effects. The review discusses the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects, noting that most data is preclinical and that more large RCTs are needed to confirm clinical applicability. The study provides a high-quality overview of the phytochemical composition of Noni and its potential therapeutic applications.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15347354221132848 – This study investigates the effects of *Morinda citrifolia* on various health conditions. It highlights the potential benefits of Noni in reducing inflammation, improving immune function, and providing antioxidant support. The research suggests that Noni may have a role in managing chronic diseases and promoting overall well-being, although further clinical trials are recommended to validate these findings.
- https://jppres.com/jppres/efficacy-and-safety-analysis-of-morinda-citrifolia-fruit/ – This review assesses the efficacy and safety of *Morinda citrifolia* fruit based on animal models, human studies, and case reports. The findings indicate that Noni is generally safe with mild adverse events, but rare cases of hepatotoxicity have been reported at high doses. The review also highlights the beneficial antioxidant effects of Noni, while noting the limitations of relying on heterogeneous sources and the need for more controlled clinical trials.
