Fans of natural living should flock to Al Khaily Farm in Al Ain
Next time you’re about to sneeze, ditch the nasal spray and reach for a noni.
Noni is a green, lumpy fruit the size of an orange that is native to tropical climates in Asia. It is grown at a farm in Al Ain that specialises in medicinal plants, and while evidence isn’t conclusive, studies suggest it could boost immunity – which means you’re less likely to catch a cold.
Chellappan Pillai Vijayan set up Al Khaily Farm 30 years ago, next to Sheikh Thanoon Palace in Al Ain. It now has 37 greenhouses stretching over 40 acres.
As well as noni fruit, it grows black tomatoes, which are packed with nutrients and new to the UAE. It also grows spirulina – algae rich in disease-fighting antioxidants – and moringa, a tropical plant native to Africa and Asia which balances blood sugar levels.
Chellappan says, “We practise natural farming, so we don’t use chemicals. We started by growing grass using natural spring water and cow dung as fertiliser.”
The produce bursts with flavour, so it’s no wonder 100,000 visitors tour the farm each year to learn Chellappan’s techniques.
So what inspired him to grow medicinal plants? He says, “About 30 years ago, everyone around me was getting cancer. I wanted to help so I began researching the medicinal qualities of plants. What I learnt was nothing short of a miracle.”
This miracle came in the form of noni fruit, which is packed with power.
While chemotherapy kills off cancerous cells, it also weakens the immune system. Noni juice, however, is a powerful immunity booster, helping the body fight disease.
Chellappan claims the plant also lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and alleviates pain. While the American Cancer Society says there are not enough studies on humans to prove these claims, studies on animals have shown strongly positive results.
So why don’t more people know about it? “It’s not my fault,” jokes Chellappan. “I’ve been actively promoting it for 30 years! Drink it and in a week you’ll feel 20 years younger.”
The juice costs AED 100 per 500ml, while the seeds are free.
As well as exploring greenhouses and meeting cows, you can take classes on farming for villa gardens. Visits and classes are free.
Fri-Sat, by appointment only. Contact: 055 654 2571 www.nonitrees.com
Heather Long Vandevoorde
