Ba Ji Tian (Morinda officinalis)

Ba Ji Tian (Morinda officinalis) root is primarily valued for its bioactive phytochemicals rather than macronutrient density. Key bioactive compounds include: Anthraquinones (nystose, rubiadin, physcion) at approximately 0.1-0.3% dry weight; Iridoid glycosides including monotropein (0.5-1.2% dry weight) and asperuloside, considered primary active constituents; Oligosaccharides (inulin-type fructooligosaccharides) at 4-8% dry weight, notably inulobiose, inulotriose, and inulotetraose, which contribute to prebiotic activity and are among the most concentrated bioactive fractions; Polysaccharides (Morinda officinalis polysaccharides, MOPs) at approximately 3-6% dry weight with immunomodulatory properties; Sterols including beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol at trace levels (~0.05%); Amino acids present at approximately 2-4% dry weight including glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and arginine; Trace minerals including zinc (~15-25 mg/kg dry weight), magnesium (~800-1200 mg/kg), potassium (~5000-8000 mg/kg), and manganese (~20-40 mg/kg); Fiber content is moderate at approximately 8-12% dry weight predominantly as structural polysaccharides. Bioavailability notes: Iridoid glycosides demonstrate moderate oral bioavailability with gut microbiota-mediated hydrolysis enhancing absorption; fructooligosaccharides resist upper GI digestion, reaching the colon intact for fermentation; fat-soluble anthraquinones benefit from co-administration with lipids. Macronutrient profile per 100g dried root: carbohydrates ~60-70g, protein ~5-8g, fat ~1-2g, moisture ~10-12g when dried.