What Is Noni?

Native to Southeast Asia, Morinda citrifolia (noni) is commonly found in a variety of habitats, including shade and forest, sandy soils, volcanic terrain and open rocky shoreline. The tree, which can grow up to about 30 feet tall, reaches maturity in approximately 18 months and its fruit yield is approximately 10 to 18 lbs every month. The tree is quite hardy and drought-resistant.

The noni plant flowers and bears fruit year round. The fruit is considered a multiple fruit, and has a distinct, pungent smell as it ripens. The bumpy, pitted fruit, which averages several inches in size when fully ripened, turns from green to yellow to a translucent white as it ripens.

Noni has been used for hundreds of years in Southeast Asia, French Polynesia (Tahiti) and other Pacific islands, Australia, India, Africa and the Caribbean. Its traditional uses include that of a food staple and also as a medicinal plant for numerous conditions.