Floral and Reproductive Biology of Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.)

Modern day proponents claim that the noni fruit and its juice can be used to treat cancer, diabetes, heart disease, cholesterol, high blood pressure, AIDS, rheumatism, psoriasis, allergies, infection, and inflammation. Some believe that the fruit can relieve sinus infections, menstrual cramps, arthritis, ulcers, sprains, injuries, depression, senility, poor digestion, atherosclerosis, addiction, colds, flu, and headaches. It is further claimed that the juice can heal scratches on the cornea of the eye. Although animal and laboratory studies have shown some positive effects, human studies are just getting started. Research is also going on to isolate various compounds found in the noni plant so that further testing can be done to find out if they may be useful in humans. In spite of its multipurpose uses in medicine, little systematic information is available on pollination mechanism and breeding system. For undertaking any improvement programme in plant species it is imperative on the part of breeder to equip himself with information regarding floral biology.