Reconstituted Morinda
Also known as: Reconstituted Morinda, Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides, MOO, Morinda officinalis
Overview
Morinda officinalis is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, primarily known for its root extracts. The 'reconstituted' form typically refers to purified oligosaccharide capsules derived from these roots, often referred to as Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO). This supplement is primarily investigated and used for its purported antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research on MOO is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and at least one systematic review and meta-analysis available. The evidence quality varies but includes peer-reviewed clinical trials and meta-analyses, particularly supporting its use in depressive disorders. It is considered a herbal supplement derived from traditional Chinese medicine.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefit of Reconstituted Morinda (MOO) is its efficacy in the treatment of mild to moderate depressive disorder. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 randomized controlled trials (n=1,384) demonstrated that MOO capsules have efficacy comparable to conventional antidepressants, with a risk ratio (RR) of 0.99 (95% CI 0.92–1.06). This suggests non-inferiority to standard pharmaceutical treatments for depression. Furthermore, this review found no significant difference in adverse events compared to conventional antidepressants (RR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.65–1.07). The benefits are most relevant for patients diagnosed with depressive disorders. Secondary effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, have been suggested by preclinical studies, but robust clinical evidence supporting these benefits in humans is currently limited. The observed effects for depression typically manifest over several weeks, consistent with the timeline for conventional antidepressant treatments.
How it works
The antidepressant mechanism of action for Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO) is hypothesized to involve the upregulation of neuronal glucose transporter GLUT3 expression. This action is believed to improve neuronal energy metabolism and overall function, thereby contributing to its mood-enhancing effects. In addition to its impact on glucose metabolism, preclinical studies suggest that anti-inflammatory effects may be mediated by monoterpenes and other phytochemicals present in Morinda officinalis, which can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines. While the oligosaccharides are absorbed orally, the detailed pharmacokinetics, including specific absorption rates and metabolic pathways, are not yet fully elucidated.
Side effects
Overall, Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO) capsules appear to have a favorable safety profile, with adverse event rates comparable to those observed with conventional antidepressants. The systematic review and meta-analysis indicated no significant difference in the occurrence of adverse events between MOO and standard antidepressants. Common side effects, if any, are not extensively documented but are generally considered mild and less frequent than those associated with typical antidepressant medications. Currently, there are no significant drug interactions or contraindications reported in the reviewed literature. However, it is crucial to note that sufficient safety data for special populations, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or children, are lacking. Therefore, caution is advised for these groups, and use should be avoided unless under strict medical supervision. Long-term safety data also require further high-quality research.
Dosage
Clinical trials investigating Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO) have typically utilized standardized capsule formulations. While exact doses can vary between studies, they generally align with traditional usage patterns and the protocols established in clinical research. A definitive minimum effective dose and maximum safe dose have not been precisely established due to the variability in formulations and study designs. The timing of administration usually corresponds to standard antidepressant regimens, involving daily dosing over a period of several weeks to observe therapeutic effects. There are no specific cofactors or absorption enhancers that have been identified or recommended to improve the efficacy or absorption of MOO. Patients should adhere to the dosages used in clinical trials or as recommended by a healthcare professional, especially given the lack of definitively established upper limits and safety thresholds.
FAQs
Is Reconstituted Morinda as effective as conventional antidepressants?
Current meta-analyses suggest that Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO) have similar efficacy to conventional antidepressants for treating mild to moderate depression.
Is Reconstituted Morinda safe to use?
MOO appears to have a safety profile comparable to conventional antidepressants, with similar rates of adverse events. However, more high-quality studies are needed to confirm long-term safety.
How long does it take to see effects from Reconstituted Morinda?
Similar to conventional antidepressants, the therapeutic effects of MOO are likely to appear over several weeks of consistent use.
Can Reconstituted Morinda be combined with other antidepressants?
There is no clear evidence regarding the safety or efficacy of combining MOO with other antidepressants. Caution is advised due to limited data on potential drug interactions.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32997072/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 RCTs (n=1,384) concluded that Morinda officinalis oligosaccharides (MOO) capsules are non-inferior to conventional antidepressants in terms of efficacy and safety for mild to moderate depression. It found no significant difference in adverse events, suggesting a comparable safety profile.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8136385/ – This article provides further details on the systematic review and meta-analysis by Zhang et al., reinforcing the findings that MOO capsules show comparable efficacy and safety to conventional antidepressants for mild to moderate depression, based on a comprehensive analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials.
- https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1096/fj.201902546RR – This preclinical study investigated the mechanism of action for MOO, suggesting that its antidepressant-like effects are associated with the upregulation of neuronal glucose transporter GLUT3 expression. This mechanism improves neuronal energy metabolism, providing a biological basis for its observed effects in animal models.
- https://www.bohrium.com/paper-details/anti-inflammatory-monoterpenes-from-morinda-morinda-officinalis-how/967240252856991747-5041 – This phytochemical review identified anti-inflammatory monoterpenes within Morinda officinalis. While not a clinical trial, it provides support for the potential secondary anti-inflammatory properties of the plant, suggesting a broader range of bioactive compounds beyond just the oligosaccharides.
