Morinda (Morinda officinalis)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rubiaceae
• Common Names: Morinda, Indian Mulberry, Ba Ji Tian (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
• Parts Used: Root

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Description

Morinda officinalis is a medicinal plant native to China and Southeast Asia. It is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a kidney yang tonic, helping to enhance vitality, support reproductive health, and strengthen bones and muscles. It is valued for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in TCM as Ba Ji Tian to tonify kidney yang, strengthen bones, and boost stamina.
• Traditionally employed for reproductive health, including infertility and libido support.
• Used in folk medicine to relieve joint pain and strengthen muscles.
• Historically applied as a general tonic to enhance longevity and vitality.

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Constituents

• Iridoid glycosides
• Anthraquinones
• Flavonoids
• Polysaccharides
• Alkaloids

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Actions

• Kidney yang tonic
• Adaptogenic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Aphrodisiac
• Immune-modulating
• Musculoskeletal tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Reproductive and Sexual Health:
Used traditionally to support fertility, increase libido, and address sexual dysfunction.

2. Kidney and Adrenal Support:
Strengthens kidney yang energy, aiding in adrenal fatigue and low vitality.

3. Joint and Bone Strengthening:
Helps relieve joint pain, muscle weakness, and conditions like osteoporosis.

4. Immune System Support:
Used as an adaptogen to strengthen the immune system and overall resilience.

5. Energy and Longevity Enhancement:
Boosts stamina and endurance, particularly for aging individuals.

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Preparation and Dosage

Decoction (Tea):

• 5-10 grams of dried root simmered in water for 20-30 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Capsules/Powder:

• 500-1000 mg daily as a supplement.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Excess Heat Conditions: As a yang tonic, it may not be suitable for those with excessive internal heat.
• High Blood Pressure: Use with caution in individuals with hypertension.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Warms kidney yang, strengthens Qi, and supports Jing (essence).
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Vata and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Pitta.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Used as a musculoskeletal and reproductive tonic.

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Combinations

• For Kidney Yang Support: Combine with Eucommia and Cistanche.
• For Joint and Bone Health: Combine with Solomon’s seal and nettle.
• For Immune Resilience: Combine with astragalus and reishi.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Roots are collected in autumn and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried roots in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Morinda officinalis’s adaptogenic, bone-strengthening, and immune-enhancing properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Morinda remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for kidney health, reproductive support, and musculoskeletal strength.