An Assessment of the Bioactive Compounds and the Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antidiabetic Potential of Hydro-Methanolic Extracts Derived from Fresh Noni (<i>Morinda citrifolia</i> L.) Fruits Growing in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Morinda citrifolia L., or Noni, thrives in tropical and sub-tropical regions globally, garnering interest as a bioactive source. Despite Sri Lanka’s myths, Noni’s potential remains underutilized. The United States commercialized Noni products in the early 1990s, introducing Noni juice as a wellness drink in 1996. In this study, we assessed Sri Lankan Noni fruit’s functional properties through methanolic extraction and various assays, revealing its notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic potential. Methanolic-extracted fresh Noni fruits may serve as natural sources of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Exploring specific bioactive compounds could yield innovative treatments for oxidative stress, inflammation, and diabetes-related conditions.

Keywords

• noni fruit
• bioactive properties
• Sri Lanka