mulberry trees produce flavorful berries loved around the world and often considered superfoods due to their concentration of vitamins, minerals and powerful plant compounds. However, the fruit is not the only part of the mulberry tree that offers health benefits. For centuries, its leaves have been used in traditional medicine as a natural treatment for a variety of conditions.
In fact, the leaves are very nutritious. They are loaded with powerful plant compounds like polyphenol antioxidants, as well as vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium (, , ).
This article reviews mulberry leaf, looking at its uses, benefits, and potential side effects.
How is mulberry leaf used?
Mulberry (Morus) belongs to the Moraceae family and includes several species, such as black mulberry (m. nigra), red mulberry (M.rubra) and white mulberry (m. alba) ().
Originally from China, this tree is now grown in many regions, including the United States, Europe, Asia and Africa.
Mulberry leaves have a variety of culinary, medicinal and industrial applications.
The leaves and other parts of the tree contain a milky white sap called latex, which is mildly toxic to humans and may cause symptoms such as ingestion or skin irritation if contacted (, ).
However, many people consume mulberry leaves without experiencing any adverse effects.
They are said to be very palatable and commonly used to make tinctures and, which are a common health drink in Asian countries. Young leaves can be eaten after cooking.
You can also take mulberry leaf supplements, which have become increasingly popular for their potential health benefits.
Additionally, these leaves are the only food source for the silkworm – a caterpillar that produces silk – and are sometimes used as feed for dairy animals ().
ABSTRACT
Mulberry leaves are commonly used to make tea in Asian countries, although they can also be eaten. They are also available as tinctures and herbal supplements.
Potential Health Benefits of Mulberry Leaf
Mulberry leaves may help lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammation levels. These attributes may make them useful in fighting heart disease and diabetes ().
May lower blood sugar and insulin
Mulberry leaves provide several compounds that may help.
These include 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which prevents the absorption of carbohydrates in your gut (, ).
In particular, these leaves can reduce high levels of blood sugar and insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
In one study, 37 adults ingested maltodextrin, a starchy powder that quickly raises blood sugar levels. They were then given a mulberry leaf extract containing 5% DNJ.
Those who took 250 or 500 mg of the extract experienced a significantly smaller increase in blood sugar and insulin levels than the placebo group ().
Additionally, in a 3-month study, people with type 2 diabetes who took 1 mg of mulberry leaf extract 000 times daily with meals experienced significant reductions after the meal, compared to a placebo group ().
May support heart health
Some research suggests that mulberry leaf extract may improve by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, decreasing inflammation, and preventing atherosclerosis – a buildup of plaque in your arteries that can lead to heart disease.
One study gave 23 people with high cholesterol 280 mg of mulberry leaf supplements 3 times a day. After 12 weeks, their LDL (bad) cholesterol dropped by 5,6% while their HDL (good) cholesterol increased by 19,7% ().
Another 12-week study noted that 10 people who took daily mulberry leaf supplements containing 36 mg of DNJ reduced their levels of this marker by 50 mg/dL, on average ().
Additionally, animal studies indicate that this leaf may prevent atherosclerosis and reduce cell damage and high blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for heart disease (, , ).
May reduce inflammation
Mulberry leaf contains many anti-inflammatory compounds including.
Some research suggests that mulberry leaf may combat inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to chronic disease ().
Studies in mice on a high-fat diet demonstrate that leaf supplements like C-reactive protein, as well as markers of oxidative stress like superoxide dismutase (, ).
A test tube study in human white blood cells also found that extracts of mulberry leaves and its tea not only reduced inflammatory proteins but also significantly reduced DNA damage caused by oxidative stress () .
Although these results are encouraging, human studies are needed.
Other Potential Health Benefits
Although research is limited, mulberry leaf may offer several other health benefits. These include:
- Anticancer effects. Some test tube research links this leaf to human cervical and liver cancer cells (, ).
- Liver health. Test-tube and animal studies have determined that mulberry leaf extract can protect liver cells from damage and reduce liver inflammation ().
- Weightloss. Rodent studies note that these leaves may increase fat burning and promote ().
- An even complexion. Some test-tube research suggests that mulberry leaf extract may prevent hyperpigmentation – or patches of dark skin – and naturally brighten skin tone ().
ABSTRACT
Research suggests that mulberry leaf promotes heart health, reduces inflammation and fights diabetes. It may also offer other benefits, but human studies are needed.
Mulberry Leaf Precautions
Although mulberry leaf has been found to be largely safe in human and animal studies, it may cause side effects in some people ().
For example, some people have reported side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, and constipation, when taking supplements ().
Additionally, people who are taking diabetes medications should consult a healthcare professional before trying mulberry leaf due to its effects on blood sugar ().
Additionally, additional human studies are needed to establish the safety of this leaf when taken over extended periods of time. Children and/or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to insufficient safety research.
It's always a good idea to consult your health care provider before using any herbal supplement, especially if you are taking medications or have a health condition.
ABSTRACT
Although widely considered safe, mulberry leaf can cause side effects like diarrhea and bloating. Children and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to a lack of research into its safety.
The essential
Mulberry leaves have long been used in traditional medicine and are associated with several impressive health benefits.
This unique tree leaf may fight inflammation and improve various risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. However, additional human research is needed.
You can take it as a supplement or eat cooked, unripe leaves. Still, because of its potential side effects, you may want to consult your healthcare provider before adding mulberry leaves to your routine.