Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu)
Morinda officinalis
About Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu)
Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) (Morinda officinalis) is a herb used in the Jamu tradition to help with Fatigue, Libido, Rheumatism, and Immune Support. The root is the part traditionally used, taken internally.
Botanical background
Morinda officinalis, also known as Indian mulberry is a plant in the Morinda genus.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Decoction
- Add 1–2 tsp of dried Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) to 2 cups of cold water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Strain and drink warm.
Tincture
- Pack dried Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Topical / Poultice
- Mash fresh Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.
Infused Oil
- Fill a jar with dried Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu).
- Pour over a carrier oil until submerged.
- Leave for 4–6 weeks, then strain.
- Use topically or as a salve base.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
No herb-specific pregnancy/child safety research is documented for Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) in our references — the guidance below is based on its general effect category, not research on Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) itself. Always confirm with a midwife, doctor, or pediatrician.
Pregnancy
AvoidThis herb is associated with stimulant activity, which can raise heart rate and blood pressure — generally best avoided or strictly limited in pregnancy. This is a general, mechanism-based caution, not herb-specific research.
Breastfeeding
Use CautionStimulant compounds pass into breast milk and can cause infant irritability or poor sleep — generally used cautiously and in moderation.
Children
AvoidStimulant effects on the developing cardiovascular and nervous system mean these herbs are generally avoided in children.
Contraindications
- Autoimmune conditions (lupus, MS, RA) — may overstimulate immune response
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
May have a stimulant effect
Watch for: Other caffeine-containing products, MAOIs, and stimulant medications (for ADHD or weight loss)
Additive stimulant effects can raise heart rate and blood pressure.
May affect immune activity
Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)
Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines
Climate
Tropical equatorial
Habitat
Tropical rainforests, village herb gardens, and traditional farm plots across the Indonesian archipelago
🌿 To see Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu) growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Indonesian and Malaysian grocery stores
- Asian health food stores with Southeast Asian sections
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Indian Mulberry Root (Mengkudu), look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.