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Geriatric health care through nutraceuticals of morinda citrifolia l.: a review

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Geriatric health care through nutraceuticals of morinda citrifolia l.: a review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Author(s):

*Soni Pradeep
Medical Officer, Govt. Ayurveda Hospital, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.
G S Indoriya
Principal, M.M.M. Govt. Ayurveda College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Sharma Chakrapany
Professor & HOD, Department of Dravyaguna, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Rajasthan Ayurved University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Parashar Rahul
Lecturer, Dept. of Swasthavritta, M.M.M. Govt. Ayurveda College, Udaipur, India.


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Geriatric health care through nutraceuticals of morinda citrifolia l.: a review

Year: 2014

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Aging, referred to as Jara in Ayurveda, is a natural process that predisposes older individuals to various diseases and health issues such as joint problems, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and psychological disorders. With the elderly population expected to rise significantly, there's an urgent need for effective geriatric care solutions. One such potential remedy explored in this review is Morinda citrifolia L., commonly known as Noni. This plant has been utilized in traditional medicine for over 2000 years and possesses a broad range of therapeutic benefits, especially through its nutraceutical properties.

Anti-inflammatory and Cancer Prevention

A prominent aspect of Morinda citrifolia is its anti-inflammatory activity, particularly in the context of arthritis, which affects a significant percentage of older adults. The fruit juice of Noni has been shown to inhibit the COX-2 enzyme effectively, a process similar to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) but without the associated side effects. Moreover, Morinda citrifolia may exert cancer-preventive effects by reducing inflammation and decreasing angiogenesis through its COX-2 inhibition. The presence of proxeronine, which converts to the alkaloid xeronine in the body, also supports various metabolic processes associated with health and wellness.

Antioxidant Properties and Diabetic Management

Another critical aspect of Morinda citrifolia is its antioxidant capacity, which plays a vital role in combating oxidative stress associated with aging and metabolic disorders such as diabetes. The plant contains several antioxidants like vitamins and flavonoids that help reduce free radical-induced damage. Studies have indicated that administration of Noni juice improves lipid metabolism and controls blood glucose levels in diabetic conditions, suggesting that it might aid in the prevention and management of diabetes by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas and reducing oxidative stress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the nutritive and medicinal values of Morinda citrifolia are well-supported by both historical usage in traditional medicine and emerging scientific research. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, along with its capabilities in cancer prevention and diabetes management, position it as a significant candidate for geriatric health care. Ongoing research holds promise for further elucidating the beneficial effects of this remarkable plant, potentially guiding alternative medical practices and enhancing the quality of life for the elderly population.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Morinda citrifolia and its common uses in traditional medicine?

Morinda citrifolia, commonly known as Noni, has been used for over 2000 years in folk remedies. It's known for various health benefits, including the treatment of arthritis, diabetes, skin infections, and hypertension, and is considered a tonic with anti-inflammatory properties.

How does Morinda citrifolia support geriatric health care?

Morinda citrifolia contains nutraceuticals such as vitamins, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. These components help in managing chronic conditions typical in the elderly, bolster immune function, and exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and potential anti-cancer effects, contributing to better geriatric health care.

What are the key biological activities of Morinda citrifolia?

Morinda citrifolia exhibits numerous biological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, hypotensive, and antimicrobial effects. These pharmacological properties are attributed to its rich content of active compounds like proxeronine, scopoletin, and various vitamins, beneficial for overall health.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Geriatric health care through nutraceuticals of morinda citrifolia l.: a review�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Disease:
A key focus of the article, highlighting the health issues affecting the elderly, including joint problems, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, which Morinda citrifolia (Noni) is suggested to help manage or prevent through its nutraceutical properties.

2) Cancer:
Cancer: Mentioned as one of the diseases that Noni can potentially prevent or treat, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and compounds like scopoletin and damnacanthal that have shown anticancer activity.

3) Blood:
Discussed in the context of hypotensive activities of Morinda citrifolia, which lowers blood pressure, and its nutritional benefits, including the beneficial effects of its components on blood circulation.

4) India:
India: The country where significant research on Morinda citrifolia and its applications in Ayurveda for geriatric health care is being conducted, with multiple authors and institutions based here.

5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda: An ancient Indian healthcare system that includes the use of Morinda citrifolia as a treatment for various conditions, including longevity (Jara), showcasing its historical and traditional relevance.

6) Indian:
Refers to traditional Indian names, uses, and cultural significance of Morinda citrifolia, indicating its widespread acceptance and historical use in India’s medicinal systems.

7) Pain:
The article discusses how Morinda citrifolia alleviates pain, particularly in conditions like arthritis, due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

8) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial: One of the key benefits of Morinda citrifolia, containing compounds like anthraquinones that fight bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, helping treat infections and enhance overall health.

9) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan: A state in India where significant research is conducted on Morinda citrifolia, with contributions from institutions and authors based in Udaipur and Jodhpur.

10) Udaipur (Udaypur):
Udaipur: A city in Rajasthan, India, home to some of the contributing authors and institutions conducting research on the health benefits of Morinda citrifolia for geriatric care.

11) Ulcer:
Ulcer: Mentioned as one of the conditions that Morinda citrifolia helps to treat due to its antibacterial properties that combat H. pylori, responsible for stomach ulcers.

12) Fever:
Traditional uses of Morinda citrifolia include fever treatment, illustrating its medicinal versatility and historical use in various cultures.

13) Science (Scientific):
The article emphasizes the scientific research validating the medicinal and nutritional properties of Morinda citrifolia, proving its efficacy in treating various ailments.

14) Substance:
Substance: Refers to the bioactive compounds found in Morinda citrifolia that provide its therapeutic effects, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and vitamins, important for health benefits.

15) Flavonoid:
Flavonoid: Highlighted as one of the key phytochemicals in Morinda citrifolia, contributing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer properties.

16) Animal:
Animal: Used in scientific studies to test the effects of Morinda citrifolia on various conditions, supporting the claims of its health benefits with experimental evidence.

17) Phytochemical:
Phytochemical: Active compounds in Morinda citrifolia, such as xeronine and damnacanthal, which contribute to its medicinal properties including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.

18) Depression:
Depression: Indicated as one of the conditions that Morinda citrifolia can help manage, likely due to its ability to affect brain chemistry through alkaloids like xeronine.

19) Medicine:
The article discusses how Morinda citrifolia is used both in traditional medicine (Ayurveda) and supported by modern scientific research for treating various ailments.

20) Powder:
Powder: One of the forms in which Morinda citrifolia is consumed or applied, often as a powdered fruit or root, to harness its therapeutic benefits.

21) Phala:
Sanskrit for 'fruit,' used in the context of Morinda citrifolia (Akshiki phala) to discuss its usage and benefits in traditional Indian medicine.

22) Fight:
Fight: Describes how Morinda citrifolia combats diseases, infections, and physiological issues, through its bioactive compounds that offer antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and other therapeutic effects.

23) Jara (Jara°, Jará):
Jara: Sanskrit for 'ageing,' highlighting the focus of the article on geriatric health care and how Morinda citrifolia can support healthy ageing processes.

24) Tree:
Refers to the Morinda citrifolia tree, an evergreen species known for its medicinal fruit and other parts used in traditional and modern medical practices.

25) Worm:
Worm: Mentioned in the context of Morinda citrifolia's anthelmintic properties, effectively eliminating parasitic worms such as Ascaris lumbricoides.

26) Salt (Salty):
Traditional uses of Morinda citrifolia include mixing unripe fruit with salt for topical applications to treat cuts and infections, emphasizing its folk medicinal uses.

27) Drug:
Drug: Morinda citrifolia is discussed in relation to its potential to be a natural alternative or complementary therapy to conventional drugs for conditions like diabetes, cancer, and inflammation.

28) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation: Refers to the change in protein structures and enzyme activities due to Morinda citrifolia compounds like xeronine, enhancing overall health and potentially reversing damage.

29) Tuberculosis:
The leaf extract of Morinda citrifolia has shown effectiveness against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, positioning it as a promising natural treatment for this infectious disease.

30) Inflammation:
Inflammation: A major health issue that Morinda citrifolia helps manage through its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

31) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna: A branch of Ayurveda focusing on the study of herbal medicines, with Morinda citrifolia being examined for its diverse therapeutic properties in this discipline.

32) Discussion:
Discussion: The section in the article that reviews and interprets the data on Morinda citrifolia, emphasizing the significance of its nutraceuticals and overall health benefits.

33) Gujarati:
Gujarati: One of the Indian languages in which Morinda citrifolia has a vernacular name, Sarogi, indicating its traditional usage and recognition in various Indian cultures.

34) Toxicity:
Toxicity: The article reviews the safety profile of Morinda citrifolia, concluding that it is effective and safe for human use without significant toxic effects when consumed appropriately.

35) Swelling:
One of the conditions treated by Morinda citrifolia due to its anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce edema and other swelling related to injuries or arthritis.

36) Language:
Language: Indicates the diverse vernacular names of Morinda citrifolia across different Indian languages, reflecting its widespread traditional use and cultural significance.

37) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit: The ancient Indian language in which Morinda citrifolia is referred to as Akshiki phala or Ashyuka, denoting its historical medicinal importance in classical Ayurveda texts.

38) Marathi:
Marathi: An Indian language spoken in the Maharashtra state, where Morinda citrifolia is known as Bartondi or Surangi, highlighting its regional use in traditional medicine.

39) Surangi (Suramgi):
Surangi: The Marathi name for Morinda citrifolia, used in the region for its medicinal properties, illustrating the plant's local significance and therapeutic applications.

40) Mineral:
Refers to the mineral content in Morinda citrifolia, including elements like potassium, magnesium, and zinc, which contribute to its overall health benefits.

41) Aureus:
Refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium against which Morinda citrifolia has shown significant anti-bacterial activity, highlighting its potential to treat infections.

42) Family:
Morinda citrifolia belongs to the Rubiaceae family, identified for its small evergreen trees and medicinal uses, relevant to understanding its botanical classification.

43) Nausea:
Nausea: One of the health conditions that Morinda citrifolia leaves can help alleviate, particularly in traditional uses in Malaysia and other cultures.

44) Bitter:
Bitter: Describes the taste of alkaloids like xeronine found in Morinda citrifolia, which contribute to its therapeutic properties but also its challenging taste.

45) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma: One of the authors contributing to the research and review of Morinda citrifolia's health benefits, representing academic affiliations in Rajasthan, India.

46) Thirst:
Mentioned in the context of scopoletin’s effect on regulating body temperature and physiological responses like hunger and thirst, indicating holistic benefits of Morinda citrifolia.

47) Pitta:
In Ayurveda, Morinda citrifolia is believed to help remove excess Pitta (fire element) from the body, balancing the doshas and promoting overall health.

48) Kapha:
Kapha: Another dosha in Ayurveda that Morinda citrifolia stabilizes, promoting balance within the body's physiological systems and contributing to its therapeutic effects.

49) Tikta:
Tikta: Sanskrit term for 'bitter,' describing the taste of alkaloids in Morinda citrifolia, which, despite their bitterness, have significant therapeutic benefits.

50) Akshi (Aksi):
Akshi: Part of the Sanskrit name Akshiki phala, referring to Morinda citrifolia in Ayurveda, indicating its traditional use and significance in ancient Indian medicine.

51) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush: An acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, reflecting the broader context within which Morinda citrifolia’s benefits are recognized and studied.

52) Sugar:
Refers to blood sugar regulation, where Morinda citrifolia has shown potential as a hypoglycemic agent, beneficial for managing diabetes through antioxidant activities.

53) Hindi (Himdi):
One of the Indian languages recognizing Morinda citrifolia as Aal, highlighting its vernacular significance and traditional use in regions where Hindi is spoken.

54) Doubt:
Doubt: Addressed in the article by emphasizing strong scientific evidence supporting the traditional and modern medicinal uses of Morinda citrifolia, dispelling uncertainties about its efficacy.

55) Death:
Morinda citrifolia has compounds that can prolong life by preventing diseases and infections, emphasizing its significance in promoting longevity and preventing premature death.

56) Tamil:
Tamil: Another Indian language with a vernacular name for Morinda citrifolia (Numaakai), showcasing its widespread recognition and use across various linguistic cultures in India.

57) Cina:
China: Mentioned as the country with the largest elderly population, providing context to the global relevance of geriatric health care and potential benefits of Morinda citrifolia.

58) Beta:
Refers to Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a cytokine whose release can be stimulated by Morinda citrifolia, indicating its role in immune modulation and anti-inflammatory effects.

59) Bile:
Morinda citrifolia stimulates bile flow, aiding digestion and supporting the activity of the digestive system, as highlighted in its traditional uses and modern research benefits.

60) Dang:
Dang Van Ho: A researcher who reported the hypotensive effects of Morinda citrifolia, contributing to the understanding of its use in controlling high blood pressure.

61) Diet:
Morinda citrifolia is recommended as part of a healthy diet to benefit from its antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health and specific conditions.

62) Hair:
Nutrients in Morinda citrifolia, like vitamins and minerals, are beneficial for maintaining healthy hair, preventing premature graying, and supporting overall scalp health.

63) Fire:
Associated with the Ayurvedic concept of Pitta, which Morinda citrifolia helps balance by removing excess fire element from the body, promoting holistic well-being.

64) Mud:
Morinda citrifolia affects brain chemistry and mood due to compounds like xeronine and proxeronine, helping manage conditions like depression and enhancing mental well-being.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Geriatric health care through nutraceuticals of morinda citrifolia l.: a review�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Therapeutic effect, Diabetes mellitus, Chronic inflammatory condition, Psychological problem, Anti-inflammatory activity, Nutritional value, Oxidative stress, Traditional use, Secondary metabolite, Antibacterial effect, Aging Population, Antitumor activity, Antioxidant, Cancer prevention, Geriatric health care, Immunological response, Essential amino acid, Hypotensive effect, Morinda citrifolia L., Selective COX-2 inhibitor, Health benefit, Chemical constitution.

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