By Diana Fairechild

Which part of the noni plant heals?

All parts. The fruit appears to modulate the immune system, and it is also a laxative. The leaves can reduce swelling, heal cuts and skin sores, and they create a sense of well being when placed on the body. The flowers and roots are also healing.

Where is noni found?

Noni grows in the South Pacific, India, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. According to my research, it appears to have grown in these places since ancient times. In a Polynesian legend, the god Maui was said to have been brought back to life with noni.

Where does noni grow?

Noni trees grow well at relatively low elevations in the tropics. 100% sun brings larger fruit, but then the trees need more water. Leaves growing on trees in the shade grow larger than those forming in the sun.

What's the best way to plant noni?

Trees grown from seeds have a more stable root structure -- with the long taproot that is the hallmark of the noni tree. Trees grown from cuttings have lateral roots. Using cuttings is quite prevalent in Hawaii, as the soil is very rich, the climate temperate, and you can start plants much quicker with cuttings. Local people say about cuttings, "Hey, bra, just put it in the ground and jump back."

What are noni's quirks?

There are many ususual things about the noni. One is that the ripe fruit smells like ripe French cheese.

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