Scientific Tips About Noni

Noni and cancer

• Noni has anti tumor activity by stimulating immune factors like TNF, NK cells etc. to attack the tumor. Noni can be used as an immune supplemental therapeutic agent with any cancer therapy.


• Noni has anti-angiogenesis effect on tumor hence inhibit tumor development.


• Noni Prevents DNA adducts formation. Hence protect the cell from converting to cancer. Hence Noni can be used for primary and secondary prevention for cancer.


• In vitro study shows that the Damnacanthal, one phytochemical present in Noni have anti-carcinogenic effect.


• Noni ppt = Noni Polysaccharides - This polysaccharide is made up of 4 sugars (glucuronic acid, galactose, arabinose and rhamnose). It has immune modulatory effects.


• The Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is a system which eliminates carcinogens. Limonene, present in Noni juice seems to promote the GST system in the liver and small bowel, thereby decreasing the damaging effects of carcinogens. Animal studies demonstrated that dietary limonene reduced mammary tumour growth.


• All types of cancer, irrespective of which organ they start in, spread by the same means: they use biological cutting tools (enzymes) that are capable of cutting through the surrounding collagen connective tissue. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the enzyme have been identified as key players in tumor invasion and metastasis. Excessive MMPs secretion has been regarded as an index of malignancy which leads to the degradation of extra cellular matrix. Current treatments protocols with chemotherapy and /or radiation although beneficial, are toxic and have the potential to destroy healthy cells as well. Our approach has been to develop strategies to inhibit cancer development, progression and metastasis using naturally occurring nutrients, which are relatively non-toxic. Lysine and proline are building blocks of collagen fibers that stabilize connective tissue by inhibiting the enzymatic digestion of collagen fibers. Vitamin C is essential for production of collagen and acts as a powerful antioxidant by scavenging free radicals and thereby protects cells from damage. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has antioxidant and anticancerogenic properties. It prevent cancer cell invasion by inhibiting MMPs. The natural amino acid lysine, especially in combination with vitamin C and other selected cellular nutrients, is capable of blocking this ‘collagen digestion’. Thus we have a biological mechanism that can prevent the spread of cancer cells - and therefore cancer itself. It is postulated that the combination of these nutrients would exert a very potent synergistic anticancer activity. Noni contain the above two amino acids lysine and praline. Noni is rich with vitamin C. Noni contain the phytochemicals Epigallocatehin gallate (EGCG). Hence Noni should help to prevent the cancer tumor invasion and metastasis.


• Limonene, the phytochemicals present in Noni increases the levels of liver enzymes involved in detoxifying carcinogens.


• Cancer chemoprevention involves prevention, delay, or reversal of the process of carcinogenesis through ingestion of dietary or pharmaceutical agents. Recent advances that have defined the cellular and molecular events associated with carcinogenesis, along with a growing body of experimental, epidemiological, and clinical trial data, provide a foundation for relatively new startegies of cancer prevention. One such strategy involves suppression of carcinogen metabolic activation or blocking the formation of ultimate carcinogens. In particular, the induction of phase II enzymes can offer protection against toxic and reactive chemical species. Many recent studies have shown that elevatio of phase II enzymes, such as NAD (P) H: quinone reductase (QR) and GST, correlates with protection against chemical - induced carcinogenesis in animal models, in the stage of promotion as well as initiation. Noni fruits contain an extremely potent quinone reductase inducer, 2 - methoxy - 1, b, 6 - trihydroxyanthraquinone. This new anthraquinone was nearly 40 times more potent than all.

Glycosides

• Noni contain many glycosides - Glycosides are compounds containing a carbohydrate and a non-carbohydrate residue in the same molecule. The non-sugar component is known as the AGLYCONE. The sugar component is called the GLYCONE. If the glycone group of a glycoside is glucose, then the molecule is a glucoside; if it is fructose, then the molecule is a fructoside; if its is glucuronic acid, then the molecule is a glucuronide; etc. In the body, toxic substances are often bonded to glucuronic acid to increase their water solubility; the resulting glucuronides are then excreted. Many plants store important chemicals in the form of inactive glycosides; if these chemicals are needed, the glycosides are brought in contact with water and an enzyme, and the sugar part is broken off, making the chemical available for use. Asperuloside is a glycoside. Traditionally, this glycoside has been used for diurises (reducing water retention), treating inflammation and varicose veins and phlebitis. Research has indicated that it is anticlastogenic (that is, prevents the breakage of chromosomes). As a result, it anti-mutagenic or resist mutation within the cell’s DNA.

Three new glycosides were isolated from Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit. They are;

1. 6-O- (beta-D-glucopyranosy) -1-O-octanoyl-beta-D-glucopyranose,

2. 6-O- (beta-D-glucopyranosy) -1-O-hexanoyl-beta-D-glucopyranose,

3. 3-methylbut-3-enyl 6-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside.

Cholesterol synthesis inhibition

Noni juice shows a positive dose response and inhibits cholesterol synthesis. Associate Professor Dr David Leach (Southern Cross University) says “The in vitro findings are encouraging, and it is work we would like to repeat”.

Noni reduces the production SGPT and SDH in Liver.

Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT): An enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells. SGPT is released into blood when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood SGPT levels are thus elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise SGPT levels.

Enzymatic assays SDH (sorbitol dehydrogenase) concentrations are used in some medical laboratories as a tool for detecting liver damage. The enzyme SDH is mainly localized in the liver and normally there is very little sorbitol dehydrogenase present in the blood. Therefore, increased levels in blood serum samples are indicative of liver cell damage and are diagnostic evidence of liver diseases, particularly acute hepatitis. Noni reduces the production SGPT and SDH in Liver and heart cells. Hence noni good hepatoprotective function.

The phytochemicals present in Noni: Rutin

Rutin, one phytochemicals has also the property to chelate metal ions, such as iron. Hence Noni can helpful in thalassemia codition.

Rutin also seems to stabilize vitamin C. If rutin is taken together with vitamin C, the activity of ascorbic will be intensified.

Rutin is important because it strengthens capillaries and can help people who bruise or bleed easily. Rutin may help to prevent atherosclerotic plaques inside the arteries and thus has cardio protective function.

Studies have demonstrated that rutin can help to stop venous edema, which is an early sign of chronic venous disease of the leg. Hence it may help in varicosity of vein.

Caprylic acid

Caprylic acid is a fatty acid that has antifungal properties.

Scopoletin

Scopoletin exhibits a cholesterol lowering effect and vasodilating properties. Hence it helps in hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and prevention of CAD.

Cyclooxygenase and 5 - lipoxygenase have been found to cause inflammation and pain. Scopoletin has demonstrated inhibitory effects on these mediators. Hence Noni has anti inflammatory and analgesic activity.

Scopoletin has shown to have anit-spasmolytic activity on the uterus and small intestine, therefore being beneficial in menstrual cramping and irritable bowel conditions.

Scopoletin has bacteriostatic activity against various species of bacteria, including Escherichia coil, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp., Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Ursolic acid

Ursolic acid has anti fungal property. It inhibits the growth of Candida albicans and Microsporium lenosum. Ursolic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and is used in ointments to treat burns.

Noni works as Cancer-Inhibitor

Noni’s effect on cancer most likely deals with the fact that both Noni and cancer work on a cellular level. In other words, Noni enhances cellular structure while cancer, of course, destroys it. One of Noni’s key components, proxeronine, is sent to “sick” cells within the body by the Golgi apparatus and reticuloendothelium. These sick cells attract Proxeronine and an enzyme, Proxeroninease. The interaction creates Xeronine, the cellular enhancer. Several other studies have been performed in laboratories in order to validate Morinda citrifolia’s cancer-fighting abilities.

In one such study, four Japanese scientists injected RAS cells (cells that are precursors to many malignant growths) with a substance called Damnacanthal found in Morinda citrifolia. They observed that the injection significantly inhibited the RAS cells from reproducing. Proxeronine and Damnacanthal are substances within Morinda citrifolia that are believed to be anti-cancer agents.

Noni & Diabetes

Role of Noni in Diabetes

ROLE OF NONI IN DIABETES

Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.

Major Types of Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes is classified into two types:
Type 1. Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM): It is also called as type I diabetes.
Type 2. Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM): It is also called as type II diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus results from the body's failure to produce insulin, the hormone that "unlocks" the cells of the body, allowing glucose to enter and fuel them. Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus results from insulin resistance (a condition in which the body fails to properly use insulin), combined with relative insulin deficiency. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin.

For all types of diabetes, the metabolism of carbohydrates (including sugars such as glucose), proteins, and fats is altered

Cause of diabetes

In Type 1 diabetes the cells in the pancreas that make insulin are destroyed, causing a severe lack of insulin. This is thought to be the result of the body attacking and destroying its own cells in the pancreas - known as an autoimmune reaction.

It's not clear why this happens, but a number of explanations and possible triggers of this reaction have been proposed.

These include:
infection with a specific virus or bacteria;
exposure to food-borne chemical toxins; and
exposure as a very young infant to cow's milk, where an as yet unidentified component of this triggers the autoimmune reaction in the body.

However, these are only hypotheses and are by no means proven causes.

Type 2 diabetes is believed to develop when the receptors on cells in the body that normally respond to the action of insulin fail to be stimulated by it - this is known as insulin resistance. In response to this more insulin may be produced, and this over-production exhausts the insulin-manufacturing cells in the pancreas; there is simply insufficient insulin available; and the insulin that is available may be abnormal and therefore doesn't work properly.

The following risk factors increase the chances of someone developing Type 2 diabetes:
Increasing age;
obesity; and
physical inactivity.

Rarer causes of diabetes include:
Certain medicines;
pregnancy (gestational diabetes); and
any illness or disease that damages the pancreas and affects its ability to produce insulin e.g. pancreatitis.

What doesn't cause diabetes
Eating sweets or the wrong kind of food does not cause diabetes. However, it may cause obesity and this is associated with people developing Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is not contagious. Someone with diabetes cannot pass it on to anyone else.

Symptoms of Diabetes
Increased thirst (Polydipsia)
Increased urination (Polyuria)
Increased appetite (Polyphagia)
Weight loss despite increased appetite
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Fatigue (severe weak ness)
Absence of menstruation
Blurred vision
Frequent or slow-healing infections
Erectile dysfunction
Itching of skin

Complications of Diabetes are:Immediate complications: Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and coma. It is an important and serious complication which occurs especially in IDDM.
Late complications are Myocardial infarction and stroke:
They occur due to atherosclerotic changes in cerebral and coronary blood vessels
Diabetic retinopathy which may lead to irreversible blindness.
Diabetic cataract due to damage and changes in lens protein.
Diabetic retinopathy due to damage of the kidney. It is characterized by proteinuria, hypertension and oedema.
Peripheral neuritis manifesting as loss of sensation and tingling.
Diabetic gangrene caused by atherosclerotic changes of blood vessels, which lead to decreased blood supply.
Skin lesions such as boils, ulcers and carbuncles. Ulcers of foot are very common which should be taken care of. Otherwise it may progress to loss of limb.
Pulmonary tuberculosis: Diabetic patients are susceptible to pulmonary

General management and Treatment of diabetes included as

Diet and weight control
Meal planning includes choosing healthy foods, eating the right amount of food, and eating meals at the right time. You should work closely with your health care provider to learn how much fat, protein, and carbohydrates you need in your diet. Your specific meal plans need to be tailored to your food habits and preferences.
Managing your weight and eating a well-balanced diet are important. Some people with type 2 diabetes can stop medications after intentional weight loss, although the diabetes is still present.

Regular physical activity
Regular exercise is important for everyone, but especially if you have diabetes. Regular exercise helps control the amount of glucose in the blood. It also helps burn excess calories and fat so you can manage your weight. Exercise improves overall health by improving blood flow and blood pressure. It decreases insulin resistance even without weight loss. Exercise also increases the body's energy level, lowers tension, and improves your ability to handle stress

Education:The diabetic patient needs to be educated about change in life-style, diet, exercise and drugs. He should be taught how to monitor blood and urine glucose

Medication
When diet and exercise do not help maintain normal or near-normal blood glucose levels your doctor may prescribe medication

InsulinOral ant diabetic drugs

ROLE OF NONI

For thousands of years Morinda citrifolia, a fruit bearing plant commonly known as Noni, has been used in an effort to battle a wide array of health challenges. In recent years, the health-enhancing properties of this plant have been harnessed and made available for the benefit of people.

This miracle from paradise has been described as one of the most important health discoveries of the twentieth century. Noni has earned this praise through its powerful ability to help with a variety of health conditions and act as a natural immune system booster.

Thousands of people worldwide have attributed improvements in their health to the tremendous and often life-saving benefits found in Noni. Recent scientific research in both clinical and laboratory settings validate the efficacy of this ancient fruit. In addition, doctors and health care professionals around the world are praising Noni as their patients win battles against chronic conditions many have suffered from for years.

The role of immune system in diabetesResearch has shown that if the immune system starts to turn on itself - perhaps the result of an autoimmune disorder - it may cause a complete obliteration of the pancreas’ beta cells or at least a reduction in the number of functioning beta cells. This then affects the amount and purity and effectiveness of the body’s insulin. However, if the immune system is able to ward off an attack, the integrity of the body’s insulin will be maintained.

More refined tests now make it possible to detect faulty immune antibodies in the blood well in advance of a person showing symptoms of diabetes. In some adults, these destructive antibodies may be present years before diabetic symptoms appear. This lag time is known as the “prediabetic stage.”

Noni controls diabetesOne such health challenge that many have found Noni to help with is diabetes. Doctors and researchers suggest that Noni has the ability to help strengthen the immune system which, in turn, can help the body maintain strong insulin levels. As a result, many Type I and II diabetics have finally found relief from this often deadly disease in the form of Noni.
Many of the effects of diabetes can be controlled. While there is no cure for the disease, studies show that by keeping one’s blood sugar as close to normal as possible significantly reduces diabetes’ long-term complications.

What way Noni HELP IN DIABETES

The miracle of Xeronine - Xeronine, the alkaloid of Noni in the presence of insulin activate the peripheral cell membrane insulin receptors and helps for the normal intracellular absorption of glucose as well as corrects the intracellular post receptor defect of the action of insulin for carbohydrate metabolism and thus prevents the insulin resistance condition in diabetes cases.
Noni the cell-rejuvenator - Noni is believed to fortify and maintain the cell structure; this can be accomplished by Noni acting as an adaptogen that can aid “sick” cells in repairing themselves. Xeronine and other nutraceuticals present in Noni may convert the abnormal inactive insulin molecule present in type 2 diabetes mellitus to an active form by modifying its cell rigidity and functional level to maintain its normal function of carbohydrate metabolism in our body.

Noni works as a ‘Healthy, Immune System Promoter - One of the Noni’s effects is on the pancreas and immune system. Current studies have revealed that Noni may help promote a healthy immune system or by either enhancing an already functioning system or by stimulating a sluggish one. Noni activating our body immune system may improve the non functioning beta cells of the pancreas to an active form to produce the normal insulin from the beta cells and also maintain a normal insulin level in the blood to the response of the carbohydrate diet.

Low Glycemic Index – A 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to fiber in Noni juice helps balance blood glucose level. Glycemic index refers to a method of classification by which a number is assigned to foods based on how they affect blood sugar levels. Foods that contain the same amount of total carbohydrate may have a different glycemic index. For example kidney beans increase blood sugar levels more significantly than Soya beans, because of its higher glycemic value. Noni has a very low glycemic index and hence it reduces the risk of chronic conditions of diabetics
Noni might have the role by modifying our body immune system keeps the sensitivity of beta cells of the pancreas intact to produce an adequate amount of insulin in response to elevated blood glucose level by keeping and maintaining the balance of release of the neuro-endocrine signals of the brain.

Noni may help the diabetic complications like care of diabetic gangrene by its powerful healing effects and also helps diabetic poly neuropathy symptoms by providing number essential micronutrients, vitamins, essential minerals and amino acids that it contains.

Noni may also help relieve diabetic complications through its ability to stimulate the body’s production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide and Scopoletin one ingredient in noni helps also reduce the diabetic hypertension. Both may also be important factors in decreasing symptoms such as poor circulation and vision problems.