15 Morinda Officinalis Benefits (Ba Ji Tian) Backed by Research

Morinda Officinalis Fruit

Looking to boost your health naturally? Discover the incredible benefits of Morinda Officinalis (Ba Ji Tian). Backed by research, this traditional Chinese medicine has been used for centuries to support various aspects of well-being.

From improving sexual health to enhancing immune function, this powerful herb has a range of potential benefits. In this article, we’ll explore 16 evidence-based Morinda Officinalis benefits, helping you make informed decisions about incorporating it into your wellness routine.

What is Morinda Officinalis?

You may be wondering, what exactly is Morinda Officinalis?

Morinda officinalis
Morinda officinalis F.C. How. (Rutaceae) (a). The whole tree. (b). The root of the tree. (c). The stem of the tree. (d). The leaf of the tree. | Source

Morinda Officinalis, also known as Ba Ji Tian, is a medicinal plant that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s a perennial herb that belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is native to China.

The plant is known for its beneficial properties and has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits.

Research has shown that Morinda Officinalis contains various bioactive compounds, such as iridoids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its therapeutic effects.

These compounds have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-aging properties.

Additionally, Morinda Officinalis has been traditionally used to support kidney and liver health, improve sexual function, and enhance overall vitality.

How it was used in Traditional Chinese Medicine?

Many traditional Chinese medicine practitioners have used Morinda Officinalis in various forms and preparations, such as decoctions, powders, and tinctures, to treat a wide range of health conditions.

Morinda Officinalis Fruit

Here are four ways Morinda Officinalis has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine:

  1. Boosting vitality: Morinda Officinalis is known for its ability to enhance energy levels and improve overall vitality. It has been traditionally used to address symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and low libido.
  2. Supporting kidney health: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Morinda Officinalis has been used to tonify the kidneys and support kidney health. It’s believed to strengthen the kidneys’ functions, which are essential for maintaining overall well-being.
  3. Promoting healthy bones and joints: Morinda Officinalis has been traditionally used to treat conditions related to the bones and joints, such as arthritis and osteoporosis. It’s believed to have properties that can help alleviate pain and inflammation in these areas.
  4. Enhancing fertility: Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners have used Morinda Officinalis to support reproductive health and enhance fertility. It’s believed to have properties that can improve sperm quality and motility, as well as regulate menstrual cycles in women.

Which parts of the plant are used?

Morinda officinalis processed root
Morinda officinalis processed root

When using Morinda Officinalis, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners commonly utilize various parts of the plant, such as the roots, leaves, and stems. Each part offers unique benefits and has been used for different purposes in traditional medicine.

  • The roots of Morinda Officinalis, also known as Ba Ji Tian, are the most commonly used part. They’re believed to possess properties that can tonify the kidney and strengthen the yang energy.
  • The leaves of the plant are also used and are thought to have anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects.
  • Additionally, the stems of Morinda Officinalis are sometimes used for their potential to improve blood circulation and relieve pain.

It’s important to note that the specific parts used may vary depending on the desired outcome and the individual’s specific condition.

How to consume Morinda Officinalis?

To experience the benefits of Morinda Officinalis, you can consume it in various forms such as tea, capsules, or tinctures.

(A) The M. officinalis plant. (B) The roots of M. officinalis with the woody core removed (named bajitian in traditional Chinese medicine). (C) The roots of M. officinalis at different growth stages. Source: Nature

Here are four ways to consume Morinda Officinalis and incorporate it into your daily routine:

  1. Morinda Officinalis Tea: Brew dried Morinda Officinalis roots in hot water for a soothing and aromatic tea. This method allows you to enjoy the herb’s natural flavors and therapeutic properties.
  2. Morinda Officinalis Capsules: Convenient and easy to consume, Morinda Officinalis capsules provide a concentrated dose of the herb’s active compounds. Simply take the recommended dosage with water or as directed by a healthcare professional.
  3. Morinda Officinalis Tincture: A tincture is a liquid extract of Morinda Officinalis that can be taken orally. It offers a fast and efficient way to absorb the herb’s beneficial compounds into your system.
  4. Morinda Officinalis Powder: Add Morinda Officinalis powder to your favorite smoothies, juices, or recipes for a nutritional boost. This versatile form allows you to incorporate the herb’s benefits into your diet easily.

What are Morinda Officinalis Benefits?

Morinda Officinalis (Ba Ji Tian), offers several benefits backed by research. Let’s explore Morinda Officinalis Benefits one-by-one and see what the scientific community has to say.

When you sit too much every day, you disturb your body’s natural functions, slow down your metabolism, and impair blood sugar regulation. Your circulation and heart health suffer, and your muscles and bones weaken. Mentally, you face a higher risk of anxiety and depression.

To counteract these effects, incorporate standing breaks, desk exercises, or walking meetings. Short, frequent movements can make a big impact.

Small changes like these can alleviate many issues associated with prolonged sitting. Learn how simple habits can greatly enhance your overall well-being.

Prolonged Sitting Disrupts Body Functions

Sitting for long periods can mess up your body’s natural functions. It can cause problems with your metabolism, blood sugar levels, and blood flow. When you sit too much, your body’s metabolism slows down. This means you burn fewer calories, which can lead to weight gain and obesity.

Sitting also makes it harder for your muscles to use blood sugar properly. This can increase insulin resistance and raise the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Your heart health can suffer too. Blood can pool in your legs, leading to poor artery function and a higher risk of heart disease.

It can also increase your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are bad for your heart. Poor blood flow can cause varicose veins and, in severe cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Sitting too long affects your muscles and bones as well. Bad posture can strain your back, neck, and shoulders, causing pain and possibly leading to problems with your spinal discs. Not moving enough can also weaken your bones, raising the risk of osteoporosis.

☝️ The human body was designed to move, jump, run, and do strength activities. It is not supposed to sit all day.

Over millions of years, our bodies have evolved to be very active and capable of many physical activities, like walking, running, climbing, and lifting. Our bones, muscles, heart, and brain are all made to work best when we move and exercise.

For most of human history, people had to be active to survive. They hunted animals, gathered food, farmed, and did other hard tasks every day. Sitting still for long times is something new for humans. This change happened because of machines, technology, and how work and free time have changed.

Now, many people spend too much time sitting, whether at school, work, or home, which can be bad for our health. Regular movement and exercise are key to staying healthy and avoiding these problems.

Excessive Sitting and Mental Health Risks

Sitting too much doesn’t just hurt your body; it can also affect your mind. Spending a lot of time sitting can increase the risk of anxiety and depression. The more you sit, the higher your chances of feeling anxious or depressed.

Studies from the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) show that sitting a lot can affect the brain. Through MRI scans, researchers found that the more hours people spent sitting each day, the thinner the tissue in their medial temporal lobe (MTL), which includes the hippocampus. The hippocampus is largely responsible for storing and accessing memory. This means fewer new brain cells are made, which can hurt memory over time.

Interestingly, regular exercise alone doesn’t fix the problem. Even if you exercise a lot, sitting for long periods still poses a risk. Taking short, frequent breaks can help.

Research shows that people who stand up or move around every 30 minutes have about half the risk of anxiety and depression compared to those who don’t take breaks. [1]

How To Break the Cycle: Actionable Solutions for Everyone

Whether you’re an office worker, a gamer, or a driver, breaking the cycle of prolonged sitting is vital for your health. Begin by integrating small changes such as using a standing desk.

Regular breaks to move around are also essential. Incorporating light exercises into your routine can significantly reduce the risks associated with excessive sitting.

These adjustments make a noticeable difference, promoting better overall health.

Office Workers

Office workers can break the habit of sitting all day by adding regular movement and activity into their daily routines. Start by taking short breaks every hour to stand up, stretch, or take a quick walk. Setting reminders on your computer or phone can help you remember to move.

Here are some practical tips:

  • Use a standing desk: You can switch between sitting and standing, which reduces the time you spend in one position.
  • Walking meetings: Instead of sitting in a conference room, walk during meetings. Walking can help you think better and stay active.
  • Desk exercises: Simple exercises like leg raises, shoulder rolls, or desk push-ups can be done at your desk.

Creating a more active work environment helps your physical health and also boosts productivity and mental well-being. Employers can help by providing resources like standing desks or organizing fitness classes. Also, using fitness trackers can help you monitor your activity and meet your movement goals.

Gamers

Gamers need to move more to stay healthy, just like office workers. Sitting for a long time can cause health problems like deep vein thrombosis, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and increased body fat.

Here are some simple ways to stay healthy:

  1. Take frequent breaks: Try to get up and move for 5-10 minutes every hour. You could walk to the kitchen for a drink.
  2. Exercise daily: Spend at least 30 minutes a day exercising. You can cycle, do calisthenics, or have a short workout to help your body.
  3. Use a standing desk: Switch between sitting and standing during the day to avoid being still for too long.

Make sure your workstation is set up right. Raise your monitor to eye level and use an external keyboard to help with good posture. This can stop you from hunching over.

Building healthy habits is important. Make moving a regular part of your day. Set reminders to take breaks and focus on your physical health.

Balancing small activities throughout the day is key for your long-term health and well-being.

Drivers

As a truck driver, it’s important to break the habit of sitting for long hours. Sitting for too long can cause health problems like obesity, heart disease, and muscle pain. But, there are simple steps you can take to stay healthy.

First, use your breaks wisely. Take a 10-30 minute walk or go to a nearby park to get some exercise and fresh air. Even a little bit of movement can help. Set a timer to remind you to move around every 30-60 minutes. Standing up helps your blood flow, gives you more energy, and makes you feel better.

Here are some easy tips:

  • Add short activities: Even a 5-10 minute walk can help.
  • Choose good distractions: During breaks, take a walk or stretch instead of looking at your phone.
  • Plan your day: Make a to-do list at the end of each day to stay focused and organized.

Micro-movements: List of simple exercises that can be done at one’s desk throughout the day.

Counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting by incorporating micro-movements into your daily routine.

Simple exercises like stretches, strength exercises, cardiovascular activities, and breathing exercises can be done right at your desk.

Explore these practical and effective options to stay active and healthy throughout the workday.

Stretches and Flexibility Exercises

Ever wondered how you can keep your body flexible and reduce stiffness right at your desk? Sitting for long periods can be hard on your body, but doing simple stretches and flexibility exercises can help.

Here are a few easy movements you can do without leaving your workspace:

  • Neck Rolls: Lean your head forward, then rotate it in a circle for 10-15 seconds. Switch direction and repeat. This helps reduce tension in your neck and shoulders.
  • Lower Back Stretch: Stand up and gently reach for your toes. Hold this position for 10-30 seconds. This stretch can help ease stress in your lower back and improve flexibility.
  • Spinal Twist: Sit sideways in your chair and hold the backrest with both hands. Twist your body towards the back of the chair and hold for 10 seconds. Then switch sides. This exercise is good for your spine and can help reduce back pain.

These simple exercises can make a big difference in how your body feels during the day.

Strength Exercises

Adding strength exercises to your daily routine can be easy and helpful, even while seated at your desk. These small movements can help you fight the bad effects of sitting too long, like weak muscles and poor blood flow.

Here are some simple exercises you can do without leaving your workspace:

  • Seated Core Bracing: Sit up straight, tilt your hips a bit forward, and pull your belly button in. Hold for 10-15 seconds, relax, and repeat 5 times.
  • Marching Core: Sit on the edge of your chair, tighten your stomach muscles, and lean back a little while keeping your back straight. For an extra challenge, lift one foot at a time. Hold for 10-15 seconds, relax, and repeat 5 times.
  • Shoulder Blade Pinches: Sit up straight and pinch your shoulder blades together like you’re squeezing a pencil between them. Relax and repeat 20 times.

These exercises help keep your muscles strong and improve your posture and overall health. By adding these simple moves to your day, you can fight the harmful effects of sitting too much. Remember, small actions can lead to big changes.

Cardiovascular Exercises

Improving your heart health while at your desk is possible with simple movements. These exercises can fit into your daily routine and help reduce the bad effects of sitting too long.

Here are three easy exercises you can try:

  • Jogging in place: Stand up and jog in one spot for 1-2 minutes. This quick exercise raises your heart rate and can be done without disturbing your workspace.
  • Desk push-ups: Place your hands on the edge of your desk and do push-ups while keeping your body straight. Aim for 10-15 repetitions to work your upper body and boost your heart rate.
  • Chair dips: Sit on the edge of your chair, grip the seat, extend your legs, and lower your body towards the floor. Push back up and repeat 5-10 times. This targets your triceps and improves blood flow.

Adding these simple exercises to your workday can improve your health. They’re quick, effective, and need no special equipment. This makes it easy to stay active throughout the day.

Breathing Exercises

To reduce stress and improve focus while at your desk, try simple breathing exercises like the 4-7-8 technique. This exercise involves breathing in for 4 counts, holding the breath for 7 counts, and then exhaling for 8 counts. It helps calm your mind and boost concentration without leaving your chair.

Breathing exercises can help manage the bad effects of sitting for a long time. When you sit for too long, your body’s processes slow down. You may also have less blood flow and more muscle tension. Breathing exercises can help by making you relax and getting more oxygen into your body.

Another easy technique is diaphragmatic breathing. Sit up straight, put one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Breathe deeply through your nose. Make sure your belly rises more than your chest. This helps your diaphragm work better, reduces muscle tension, and improves posture.

These small movements are easy to add to your daily routine. They can make a big difference in how you feel during the day. Take a few moments each hour to practice these exercises and notice the improvement in your overall well-being.

Making Movement a Habit: practical strategies to integrate movement into your day

Creating new habits takes time, but with some planning, you can add more movement to your daily routine. Start with small, easy goals and build up slowly. Here’s a simple schedule to get you started:

TimeActivity
9:00 AMStart work, sitting
10:30 AMStand up and stretch for 5 minutes
12:00 PMLunch break – eat standing or take a walk
2:00 PMSwitch to standing desk or desk exercises
3:30 PMTake a quick walking break
5:00 PMEnd of workday

Technology can help remind you to move. Smartwatches and fitness trackers often alert you when you’ve been sitting too long. There are also apps that send reminders to take movement breaks.

Small changes can make a big difference. Stand while talking on the phone, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or walk to a colleague’s desk instead of emailing. Add these steps gradually, and moving more will become a natural part of your day. This approach not only breaks up sitting time but also improves your overall well-being.

Recent studies on the dangers of sitting or the benefits of movement

Adding movement to your daily routine is important. Recent studies show that sitting too much can be harmful, and being active has many benefits.

A study from the University of California, San Diego found that sitting for more than 11 hours a day raises the risk of death by 57%, compared to sitting less than 9.5 hours. Even regular exercise can’t fully remove these risks.

Another study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine says that just 22 minutes of exercise each day can help reduce the bad health effects of sitting too much. Each extra 10 minutes of activity per day lowers the risk of death by 15-35%.

The Mayo Clinic’s research shows that sitting for long periods is linked to metabolic syndrome. This includes obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and bad cholesterol levels. These problems increase the chances of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

A study in JAMA Open Network found that people who sit most of the day at work have a 16% higher risk of death from all causes and a 34% higher risk of heart disease. Adding just 15-30 minutes of daily physical activity can help reduce these risks.

Conclusion

Make movement a priority in your daily routine to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. Integrate micro-movements like desk exercises, take regular breaks to stand, stretch, or walk, and consider using standing desks. These small changes can enhance your metabolism, boost circulation, and improve mental well-being.

Take action today: start incorporating these tips into your routine for better health and quality of life.

How Much Do You Sit? – Interactive Quiz

How Much Do You Sit? – Interactive Quiz

1. How many hours do you spend sitting at work each day?

2. Do you take regular movement breaks during the day?

3. How do you spend most of your free time?

4. Do you have a standing or adjustable desk?

5. How often do you exercise or engage in physical activity?

1. It boosts immunity

Morinda Officinalis has been shown to enhance the body’s immune system, providing you with a strong defense against illnesses and infections.

Here are three reasons why Morinda Officinalis is a great choice for boosting your immunity:

  1. Increased production of immune cells: Morinda Officinalis has been found to stimulate the production of white blood cells in mice. [1]
  2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Morinda Officinalis contains compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the body and support a healthy immune system. [2]
  3. Antioxidant effects: The antioxidants found in Morinda Officinalis can help protect the immune cells from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall immune health. [3]

Incorporating Morinda Officinalis into your daily routine can help strengthen your immune system and keep you healthy.

2. Bone Health

Morinda Officinalis has been also shown to have several benefits for bone health.

One study found that Morinda Officinalis polysaccharide (the main active components of Morinda officinalis) can promote bone formation. [4]

Another study, published in the journal Pharmaceutical Biology, investigated Morinda officinalis (MO) and its potential to improve bone health. Researchers used MO polysaccharides (MOPs) on rats with bone loss due to steroid use.

They found that MOPs enhanced bone density, reduced weight gain, and influenced specific bone-related proteins. Additionally, MOP-Exo, derived from MO-treated rats, hindered the formation of bone-degrading cells. [5]

These findings suggest that Morinda Officinalis may be a valuable natural remedy for preventing and treating osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.

3. Anti-Inflammatory

You can also experience the anti-inflammatory benefits of Morinda Officinalis, as research has shown its potential to reduce inflammation in the body.

An article in “Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience” explores the potential of Morinda officinalis (MO), in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) treatment. Morinda Officinalis contains various beneficial compounds like oligosaccharides, anthraquinones, and iridoid glycosides, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The research discusses how these components may combat AD by reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, suggesting MO as a promising option for AD therapy.

Another article published in the journal “Frontiers in Immunology” discusses Morinda officinalis (MO) and its potential for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They found out that MO can effectively alleviated IBD symptoms in mice.

Finally, an article published in the journal “Bioorganic Chemistry”, researchers identified new compounds in Morinda roots and tested their anti-inflammatory properties in macrophages. Two of these compounds, 2b and 19, significantly reduced the production of inflammation-related molecules. This suggests that consuming Morinda could help prevent and mitigate inflammatory diseases.

4. It is adaptogenic

Morinda Officinalis is an adaptogenic herb, meaning it can help your body adapt to stress and promote overall balance and well-being.

Adaptogens are natural substances that have been found to support the body’s ability to handle physical, mental, and emotional stress. Research has shown that Morinda Officinalis can help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a crucial role in stress response. [5]

5. It reduces blood pressure

When consumed regularly, Morinda Officinalis has been shown to reduce blood pressure, making it a valuable addition to your health routine.

A study investigated if Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOOs) could help with depression in people with hypertension. They used rats with high blood pressure and depression-like symptoms. MOOs reduced blood pressure and improved depression symptoms

Harvesting Morinda Officinalis

6. It fights Cancer

Research has shown that consuming Morinda Officinalis can help fight cancer.

Mulberries, like Morinda Officinalis (Indian Mulberry), contain compounds like flavonoids, benzofurans, chalcones, and alkaloids that can kill cancer cells. These fruits are rich in polyphenols and nutrients, suggesting they may help prevent cancer and age-related conditions. [6]

What’s more interesting, this research explores the creation of selenium nanoparticles (Se-MOP) using Morinda officinalis polysaccharides (MOP) as a stabilizer. Se-MOP exhibited strong anti-cancer effects on various cancer cell types and induced cell cycle arrest. Additionally, it enhanced immune responses in mouse spleen lymphocytes, suggesting its potential for both cancer treatment and immune system support.

In another study, researchers looked at how Morinda officinalis (MO) might help treat colorectal cancer in mice. They tested two forms of MO, EEMO and CDMO, and found that both could shrink tumors and slow down their growth. MO also reduced certain substances in the tumors that promote cancer.

Additionally, MO changed the type of immune cells in the tumor environment to ones that fight against cancer. This suggests that MO could be a potential treatment for colorectal cancer.

7. It has Anti-Aging Potential

With Morinda Officinalis, you can maintain a youthful appearance. This powerful herb has been shown to have anti-aging potential, providing numerous benefits for your skin.

A patent filed in South Korea discusses a cosmetic product containing Morinda officinalis Haw. extract as a key ingredient. This extract, when used in cosmetics, exhibits various skin benefits like anti-aging, collagen production, preservation, antioxidation, wrinkle reduction, improved elasticity, and moisturization. It suggests that this extract could be used to create effective skincare products.

Moreover, a study investigated whether Morinda officinalis extract (MOE) could help treat atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic skin condition.

They used a mouse model of AD and found that MOE reduced skin inflammation, thickness, and mast cell infiltration. It also decreased inflammatory cytokines. In laboratory cells, MOE inhibited certain molecules linked to AD, suggesting potential as an AD treatment.

8. It supports Cognitive Function

If you want to enhance your cognitive function, Morinda Officinalis can be a beneficial addition to your daily routine. This herb has been found to support brain health and improve cognitive abilities.

Research studies have shown that Morinda Officinalis contains compounds that have neuroprotective properties, which can help to prevent or slow down age-related cognitive decline. [7]

A study investigated whether Morinda officinalis-derived fructooligosaccharides (OMO) could help with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by targeting the gut-brain axis.

They found that OMO improved memory, reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, and regulated neurotransmitter production in AD-like rats.

OMO also maintained gut microbiota diversity and stability. The study suggests that OMO’s therapeutic effect in neurological diseases like AD may involve its role in gut-brain interactions.

These findings suggest that Morinda Officinalis can have a positive impact on cognitive function and may be beneficial for individuals looking to improve their mental abilities.

9. Bedwetting

Bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a common problem, especially among children. Morinda Officinalis may offer benefits in managing this condition.

Morinda Officinalis has diuretic properties, which means it can increase urine production.

This could potentially help in reducing bedwetting incidents by promoting bladder emptying before bedtime.

Additionally, Morinda Officinalis has been found to have antispasmodic effects on the bladder muscles, which may help in controlling involuntary bladder contractions that contribute to bedwetting.

While more research is needed, these preliminary findings suggest that Morinda Officinalis could be a natural and effective option for individuals struggling with bedwetting.

10. Erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation

erectile dysfunction representation
erectile dysfunction representation

Morinda Officinalis has been studied for its potential effects on sexual health, and the results are promising. In Traditional Chinese medicine it was usually used for impotence – among others.

“Modern” research is proving what the “traditional” medicine was saying.

For example, a study investigated the effects of Morinda officinalis extract on male rats exposed to microwave radiation. The water layer of the extract at 40 g/kg improved sexual function, boosted testosterone, and reduced certain hormones affected by microwaves. It also increased sperm production and decreased GnRH protein expression in the brain, suggesting it can protect against microwave-induced reproductive issues in male rats.

Another interesting find is a Chinese patent that reveals that a Morinda officinalis extract can effectively treat sexual disorders by regulating various body functions associated with sexual health, specifically targeting the 5-HT1 serotonin receptor without affecting the 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 receptors. This extract has potential applications as both a medication and a dietary supplement to improve or treat sexual disorders.

Another study explored the use of bajijiasu, derived from Morinda officinalis, as a potential treatment for male infertility. The research found that bajijiasu improved sexual behavior, boosted testosterone levels, and enhanced sperm quality in mice. It also protected sperm DNA from damage. Bajijiasu appears to be an androgen-like compound that can improve male reproductive function without causing reproductive-organ issues.

11. Helps treat Depression

Morinda Officinalis is well known for improving your mood and mental well-being. This herb has been studied for its potential effects on depression, and the research suggests that it may be a valuable addition to your treatment plan.

Here are three ways Morinda Officinalis may help with depression:

  1. Boosts serotonin levels: Morinda Officinalis has been found to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is associated with improved mood and decreased symptoms of depression. [8]
  2. Reduces inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression, and Morinda Officinalis has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate depressive symptoms.
  3. Enhances neuroprotection: Morinda Officinalis may protect the brain from oxidative stress, which is believed to contribute to depression. [9]

While more research is needed, these findings suggest that Morinda Officinalis could be a promising natural remedy for depression.

12. Kidney disorders

Kidney disorders, such as chronic kidney disease and kidney stones, can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

For example, a study investigated how Morinda officinalis How. affects ‘Kidney-yang deficiency syndrome‘ induced by hydrocortisone in rats.

Using urine analysis and principal component analysis, they found that as the treatment time increased, the rats’ metabolic profiles became more similar to healthy rats.

Eight potential biomarkers associated with the syndrome were regulated, suggesting that Morinda officinalis is effective in alleviating kidney impairment caused by ‘Kidney-yang deficiency syndrome.’

13. It protects the liver

Morinda Officinalis is a valuable natural remedy for maintaining liver health and preventing liver damage. It not only improves mood and mental well-being but also protects the liver from damage and promotes its overall health. This herb has hepatoprotective properties, meaning it helps prevent liver damage caused by various factors such as toxins, alcohol, and certain medications.

Research studies have shown that Morinda Officinalis can effectively reduce liver inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which play a significant role in liver damage. It has also been found to enhance liver function by increasing the production of liver enzymes that help detoxify the body. [10]

14. It may help people with diabetes

A study explored how Morinda officinalis root extract (MORE) affects muscle damage in mice with diabetes caused by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin.

MORE improved diabetes symptoms, including weight gain, insulin resistance, and cholesterol levels. It also enhanced muscle health by increasing the expression of proteins important for muscle function and growth.

This suggests that MORE might be helpful in managing diabetes and muscle-related issues.

15. It may treat heart failure

Another study explored the potential of Morinda officinalis (MO) in treating heart failure (HF). Through a combination of bioinformatics and experiments, they identified key compounds and targets in MO.

MO was found to alleviate apoptosis, regulate cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and increase autophagy, ultimately improving HF.

Beta-sitosterol, Asperuloside tetraacetate, and americanin A were important components, and several core targets were associated with specific signaling pathways. This research suggests MO may have therapeutic potential for HF.

Morinda Officinalis Side Effects

While Morinda Officinalis has many benefits, it’s important to be aware of its potential side effects. Here are four potential side effects to consider:

  1. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as itching, rash, or difficulty breathing, when using Morinda Officinalis.
  2. Gastrointestinal issues: Consuming Morinda Officinalis in large quantities or for extended periods may lead to digestive problems, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea.
  3. Hormonal effects: Morinda Officinalis may have hormonal effects and should be used with caution, especially by individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast or prostate cancer.
  4. Drug interactions: Morinda Officinalis may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, anti-diabetic drugs, or immunosuppressants. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional before using Morinda Officinalis if you’re taking any medications.

Understanding these potential side effects can help you make informed decisions about using Morinda Officinalis.

Where to buy Morinda Officinalis?

You can buy Morinda Officinalis on Amazon and other herbal retailers. I suggest to use Amazon where you can find both the roots and extract of this medicinal plant.

If you are not into online shopping, health food stores may also carry Morinda Officinalis, as they tend to stock natural supplements and herbs.

Keep in mind that when purchasing Morinda Officinalis, it’s important to ensure that you’re buying from a reputable source that offers high-quality products. Always read the product descriptions and labels to ensure that you’re getting the correct form and dosage of Morinda Officinalis.

Speaking of high-quality Morinda officinalist products, here’s two of them you can buy from Amazon.

Recommended Morinda Officinalis Supplements

Here are two recommended Morinda Officinalis Supplements options to choose from:

New Packaging Radix Morindae Morindae Officinalis Ba Ji Tian: This supplement is selected from high-quality Radix Morinda and packed in a paper bag.

It’s naturally dried and comes in a 4 oz size. It has received positive ratings and is priced at $14.95 at the time of writing this post.

Ba Ji Tian Alcohol-Free Liquid Extract: This liquid extract from Hawaii Pharm is made from Morinda Officinalis root. It’s alcohol-free and contains only natural ingredients.

The extraction methods used are classic and conventional, ensuring high quality. It’s available in a 2 oz size and is priced at $19.95 as of writing this post.

These recommended supplements provide different options for incorporating Morinda Officinalis into your wellness routine. Consider your preferences and needs to choose the one that suits you best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Consuming morinda officinalis may have side effects. It’s important to be aware of potential risks such as digestive issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution when considering the use of Morinda Officinalis (Ba Ji Tian) or any herbal supplement. There is limited scientific information available regarding the safety of Morinda Officinalis specifically during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Morinda officinalis, is widely used in China today. It is a well-known medicinal and edible plant that is cultivated in the Lingnan region of southern China.

Morinda officinalis is prepared for medicinal use through a specific process. Here are the steps involved:

  1. Pieces of Morinda officinalis are taken.
  2. These pieces are evaporated for 15 minutes with saturated steam by a moistening and evaporating method.
  3. The pieces are then withdrawn, covered, and the temperature is persevered.
  4. While the Morinda officinalis is still hot, the wood core is extracted.
  5. The remaining material is cut into segments of 5-10mm.
  6. Finally, these segments are dried for 2.5 hours at 60 degrees Celsius1.

This preparation method ensures that the medicinal properties of Morinda officinalis are preserved and can be used effectively for various treatments.

When buying Morinda officinalis, there are several factors to consider:

  1. Form: Morinda officinalis is available in various forms such as liquid extract, powder, and tablets. Choose the form that best suits your needs and preferences.
  2. Quality: Ensure that the product is of high quality. It should be free from contaminants and additives. Some sellers may offer organic or non-GMO products.
  3. Brand Reputation: Purchase from a reputable brand or seller to ensure the authenticity and quality of the product.
  4. Price: Compare prices across different sellers to ensure you are getting a good deal. However, do not compromise on quality for the sake of price.
  5. Reviews: Check customer reviews and ratings for insights into the product’s effectiveness and quality.
  6. Dosage: The product should come with clear instructions on the dosage. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks. Morinda Officinalis, also known as ba ji tian, is a plant that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Its various benefits, backed by research, include improving sexual function, boosting immune health, and reducing inflammation.

However, it’s important to note that like any supplement, it may have side effects. If you’re interested in trying Morinda Officinalis, do your research and consult with a healthcare professional. And remember, there’s always a possibility that the hype surrounding this herb may just be a load of ba ji tian.

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