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Morinda Officinalis Extract

Also known as: Morinda officinalis How., Ba Ji Tian, Indian mulberry root, Morinda officinalis

Overview

Morinda officinalis extract, primarily derived from the root of the plant, is a traditional Chinese medicine ingredient. It contains bioactive compounds such as oligosaccharides, anthraquinones, iridoids, and flavonoids. Traditionally, it has been used to address conditions like depression, sexual dysfunction, neurodegenerative diseases, and osteoporosis. Modern research has focused on its antidepressant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. The evidence base includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, predominantly from Chinese clinical studies, with growing interest in its mechanisms involving neurobiology and gut microbiota modulation. Its oligosaccharide fraction, in particular, has shown promise in clinical settings.

Benefits

Morinda officinalis extract offers several potential benefits, with varying strengths of evidence. Its antidepressant effects are well-supported by a systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 RCTs involving 1,384 participants. This research indicated that Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) capsules were as effective as conventional antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, with a comparable safety profile (RR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.92-1.06 for efficacy; RR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.65-1.07 for safety). Neuroprotective effects are suggested by animal and in vitro studies, showing MO extracts can reduce neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, inhibit acetylcholinesterase, and improve cognitive impairment in models of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. For sexual dysfunction and hypogonadism, preclinical studies in mouse models of depression demonstrated that MOO improved sexual motivation, performance, modulated sex hormone secretion, and alleviated sperm defects, linking its benefits to reproductive function in depressive states. Other potential benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-osteoporosis, and immunoregulatory effects, have been reported but require further clinical validation.

How it works

The antidepressant effects of Morinda officinalis are primarily linked to the modulation of monoamine neurotransmitters, an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression within the hippocampus, and the inhibition of neuronal apoptosis. Its neuroprotective actions are believed to be mediated through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. It also inhibits enzymes implicated in Alzheimer’s pathology, such as acetylcholinesterase and beta-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1. Furthermore, Morinda officinalis may exert its effects by modulating the composition of gut microbiota, influencing the gut-brain axis. The oligosaccharides are identified as the main active constituents, which are absorbed and act on central nervous system targets and the gut-brain axis.

Side effects

The safety profile of Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) capsules appears comparable to conventional antidepressants, as indicated by a systematic review that found no significant difference in adverse events. While common side effects were not detailed, their frequency seems to be low. However, it is important to note that the quality of evidence regarding safety was rated as low, suggesting a need for more rigorous and comprehensive safety data from larger, well-controlled clinical trials. Currently, there are no well-documented significant drug interactions or contraindications reported in the literature. Despite its generally favorable safety indications, users should remain vigilant for any unexpected reactions and consult a healthcare professional, especially if they have pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications, due to the limited high-quality safety data.

Dosage

Specific dosing regimens for Morinda officinalis extract vary across studies, and a universal dose has not been established. Clinical trials, particularly those included in systematic reviews, have utilized standardized Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) capsules, but the precise dosages were not uniformly specified. Traditional use and experimental studies often involve oral administration of oligosaccharide extracts, which are typically standardized to their active components. For optimal efficacy and safety, further clinical trials are necessary to confirm precise dosing and timing recommendations for various therapeutic purposes. Users should consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate dosage, especially given the lack of detailed, universally accepted guidelines and the need for more robust clinical data on optimal intake levels.

FAQs

Is Morinda officinalis extract effective for depression?

Yes, current evidence from systematic reviews suggests it is as effective as conventional antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.

Is it safe?

Available data indicate a similar safety profile to antidepressants, but more high-quality safety data from larger studies are needed for definitive conclusions.

How quickly does it work?

Clinical trial durations varied, generally ranging from weeks to months, with animal studies showing effects within 28 days of treatment.

Can it improve sexual dysfunction?

Preclinical evidence supports its potential to improve sexual function, particularly when related to depressive states, by modulating hormones and behavior.

Research Sources

  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32997072/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) capsules for depression. It concluded that MOO capsules are non-inferior to conventional antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression, with a comparable safety profile, though the quality of safety evidence was low.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8136385/ – This article provides further details on the systematic review and meta-analysis of Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) for depression. It reinforces the finding that MOO capsules are effective for mild to moderate depression and have a safety profile similar to conventional antidepressants, highlighting the need for more rigorous safety data.
  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2024.1509543/full – This preclinical study investigated the effects of Morinda officinalis oligosaccharide (MOO) in a mouse model of chronic unpredictable mild stress. It found that MOO alleviated depression-like behavior, improved sexual function, and modulated neurotransmitters and gut microbiota, suggesting its potential for treating depression-related sexual dysfunction.
  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2022.963041/full – This mini-review summarizes the neuroprotective effects of Morinda officinalis extracts based on various in vivo and in vitro studies. It highlights the extract's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-Alzheimer’s enzyme activities, suggesting its potential in neurodegenerative conditions, though clinical trials are limited.
  • https://www.tmrjournals.com/public/articlePDF/20220201/782f55ff35266d53b53d6ade29cbd2f4.pdf – This source likely provides additional context or a related review on Morinda officinalis, potentially covering its phytochemical analysis or broader therapeutic applications. It contributes to the understanding of the compound's mechanisms and potential benefits, complementing the specific studies on depression and neuroprotection.