CNMI noni plant sparks innovative research at NMC

What is the potential of the CNMI's noni plant? That's what researchers are seeking to answer with innovative research at the Northern Marianas College.

Northern Marianas College's Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services sparking new research on the potential of the noni plant.  Dr. Zaidul I. Sarker, NMC-CREES Professor and State Program and Food Science Leader, said, "I am starting some scientific experiment like anti diabetic activity that are claimed for the noni...some anti cancer activity...some antioxidant activities so I am testing all this."

KUAM News spoke with the researchers at the college's Agro-Forestry Farm and Research Station on Saipan. The plant, traditionally used as medicine, food, and drink, is at the center of Dr. Sarker's research, where he uses his patented technique called "supercritical fluid extraction." Researchers say the noni is widely available and easy to access. 

Patricia Coleman, Interim Dean, NMC CREES, said, "We see that it is under utilized and because of its cultural significance I think those are some of the reasons that we've pursued research funding from USDA for this project. "

The researchers also have their eyes set on the potential economic benefits of noni to create new industries. 

"This is the first time for CNMI noni. No one started before. We are studying scientifically with evidence from the Noni of the CNMI," said Sarker.

The research has already led to the development of a food science laboratory on Saipan and a plant laboratory on Rota as they move to the next stage to see if his findings hold in animal studies. 

"We can analyze any kind of sample in our laboratory," said Sarker.