Noni is an indigenous plant of the South Pacific's Polynesian Islands (and comes from a bumpy fruit of the otherwise known "Morinda Citrifolia" tree). It's been used for more than 2,000 years by Polynesian's in their alternative medicine practices, and thanks to recent studies, may have proven to lower overall cholesterol and triglycerides.

Smokers often have higher levels of cholesterol and this in turn increases their risk of heart attack, but one study showed a large reduction in cholesterol in only 30 days. This may be attributed to the special properties of Tahitian noni juice which give it cancer-fighting properties including being a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

As is usually the case, a portion of the study group was given a placebo. In this study, the placebo group's total cholesterol levels went up slightly as did their triglyceride levels. With the difference in the two study groups, a larger clinical study will probably occur soon to see if the results hold true to verify the finding on cholesterol, but as one spokesperson has remarked, "this study is a rare example of good research on a dietary supplement or food that makes health claims."

Americans spent over $16 billion last year alone on statin drugs and television advertising is bringing even more awareness of these medications. While the human body does need a certain level of cholesterol to work properly, high levels can lead to heart disease and other health issues. With this increased concern about cholesterol levels Tahitian noni juice may prove to be a viable option to these medications.

The juice does have a pungent odor and a strong taste which can make it difficult for some people to take, though this can be helped somewhat through the addition of fruit juices like grape or blueberry. Also, at up to $26 a bottle it is certainly not a cheap option.

As today's population is always looking for cheaper ways to lower their cholesterol without medication, the juice may continue to grow in popularity. Even as other supplements have reportedly had an effect on cholesterol, a fruit juice seems to fit in with other alternative medicine approaches that so many doctors, patients and other nutritionists tout today.

As more headlines proclaim how "Tahitian noni juice may lower the bad cholesterol (LDL)" and sales continue to grow (as they jumped to more than $1 billion after a network news show reported on the study's results), let's hope the results will more substantially prove its benefits and more individuals will reap the significant results for their hearts and overall health.