Fruit of the morinda tree: a new horticulture industry for Cape
York
Photo: Greg Calvert
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An unusual tree with an unusual reputation could be the means for a
new industry in the remote township of Pormpuraaw on Cape York
Peninsula. Morinda citrifolia is famous across the south Pacific
for the alternative health drink, Noni Juice—but its taste is
unlike any other fruit, with some likening it to a combination of
blue-veined cheese and hot mustard!
Yet this hot fruit could become hot property for the Christmas
Creek Aboriginal Corporation, which plans to enter the fledgling
Australian Noni juice market with its first plantation scheduled
for picking in 2006. Eddie Holryod, chairman of the corporation,
said that the Noni Juice production project would mean a steady
income for the Pormpuraaw people.
Pormpuraaw is located in the Gulf of Carpentaria near Weipa and
supports between 750 and 1000 residents. “Aboriginal people
have always chewed the fruit as a medicine for many
illnesses,” said Mr Holroyd. He also doesn’t have a
problem with the fruit’s taste. “I like it; it’s
very different to every other fruit, like apples and oranges.
It’s bitter and smells horrible— but it does have a lot
of good properties.”
There is no previous history of large-scale production in
Australia, but the fruit is starting to be grown south of Cairns,
where a growers’ association is now based. In the early
stages, the Christmas Creek Noni juice will be sold to the
association, which Tony says is a good step into the market for the
corporation.
The fruit does have high amounts of vitamin C, but its reputation
as a health tonic is still largely anecdotal. However, it is used
for ailments as diverse as the common cold, influenza, diarrhoea,
asthma, coughs and sore throats, not to mention relief from joint
pain, clearing skin blemishes, heart palpitations and cancer.
“It’s powerful and potent stuff,” said Eddie.
“Take my word for it, it won’t cure you in a day or
two, but over the years you will feel as good as gold again!”
— Story by Kate O’Donnell
