Effect of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) Fruit Extract on the Teratogenecity in Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

The raw fruit extract of Morinda citrifolia plant and its commercially available formulation in the market as Noni max (Best-selling brand of Brihans pharmaceutical in India and abroad) were obtained from Brihans Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd. Mulund, Mumbai, India. 80 Wistar rats of either sex weighing between 200 to 250 gms were used for experimentation. In the present study, it was found that the Morinda citrifolia fruit extract and its formulation found safe for the developmental stages of foetus. It was also found that there was no significant difference was noted in body weight and the relative weight of the ovary, uterus and placenta of female rat. There was no structural and functional manifestation was noted in the developing foetusin the pregnant female rats. From the present study it is confirm that, both Morinda citrifolia fruit extract and its formulation (Noni max) did not produce any teratogenic effect in rats up to 1000 mg/kg and 40 ml/kg respectively.