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Broussonetia

Also known as: Paper mulberry, Broussonetia, Broussonetia papyrifera

Overview

Broussonetia papyrifera, commonly known as paper mulberry, is a dioecious tree species belonging to the Moraceae family, native to China and East Asia. This plant is recognized for its leaves and bark, which are rich in a variety of biologically active compounds, including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, polyphenols, amino acids, polysaccharides, and essential trace elements like copper, molybdenum, manganese, and iron. As a supplement ingredient, Broussonetia papyrifera is primarily investigated for its potential medicinal properties, encompassing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiviral, lipid-lowering, diuretic, and immunomodulatory effects. While preclinical research, including in vitro and animal studies, shows promising results, human clinical evidence is currently limited, indicating a need for further research to validate its efficacy and safety in humans.

Benefits

Broussonetia papyrifera exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. Its strong antioxidant activity is demonstrated by its ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce markers of oxidative stress. Anti-inflammatory effects are observed through the inhibition of inflammatory pathways and modulation of cytokine production. The plant also shows antitumor properties by promoting apoptosis and inducing cell cycle arrest in various cancer cell lines. Furthermore, it demonstrates antidiabetic potential by inhibiting enzymes such as α-glucosidase, which helps slow carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption. Secondary effects, including immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and antiviral activities, have been reported but require more robust validation. While no large-scale human trials exist, in vitro studies have shown potent bioactivity, such as α-glucosidase inhibition with an IC50 of approximately 9.3 μg/mL, suggesting significant biological activity at a molecular level. The strength of evidence for these benefits is currently high in preclinical models but low in human clinical settings.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Broussonetia papyrifera are primarily attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds exert their effects through multiple mechanisms. They modulate oxidative stress pathways by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and directly scavenging free radicals. They also inhibit key enzymes involved in disease processes, such as α-glucosidase, which is crucial for carbohydrate digestion, thereby contributing to antidiabetic effects. In cancer cells, these compounds induce apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by interacting with specific molecular signaling pathways. Additionally, they regulate inflammatory mediators and influence immune cell function, contributing to anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. While specific molecular targets include enzymes and transcription factors, detailed absorption and bioavailability data in humans are sparse, though flavonoid bioavailability is generally known to vary based on structure and formulation.

Side effects

The safety profile of Broussonetia papyrifera in humans is not well-characterized due to a lack of clinical trials. While preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) have not reported significant adverse effects at experimental doses, this does not directly translate to human safety. There is currently no documented clinical literature detailing common side effects, drug interactions, or contraindications for human use. Given its potential antidiabetic and immunomodulatory effects observed in preclinical studies, there is a plausible, though unstudied, risk of interactions with conventional antidiabetic medications or immunosuppressants. Caution is strongly advised due to the insufficient human safety data. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before considering supplementation with Broussonetia papyrifera.

Dosage

Currently, there are no established dosing guidelines for Broussonetia papyrifera derived from human clinical trials. Experimental studies have utilized extracts standardized for flavonoid content or specific isolated compounds, such as broussochalcones, but the human equivalent dosage remains unknown. The optimal dosage, timing of administration, and most effective formulation for human consumption have not been determined. Future clinical research is essential to establish safe and effective dosing recommendations. Without human safety and efficacy data, any self-administration of Broussonetia papyrifera is speculative and not supported by scientific evidence.

FAQs

Is Broussonetia papyrifera safe for human consumption?

Human safety data for Broussonetia papyrifera are currently insufficient. While preclinical studies suggest low toxicity, these findings do not guarantee safety in humans. Caution is advised.

What benefits can be expected from Broussonetia papyrifera?

Preclinical research suggests potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antidiabetic benefits. However, these effects have not been confirmed in human clinical trials.

How quickly does Broussonetia papyrifera work?

In vitro studies show rapid enzyme inhibition. However, the clinical onset of effects in humans is unknown due to a lack of human trials.

Can Broussonetia papyrifera replace conventional medicine?

No. Broussonetia papyrifera is an investigational supplement with no approved therapeutic claims. It should not be used as a substitute for prescribed medications or medical advice.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11859970/ – This systematic review comprehensively analyzed flavonoids from Broussonetia papyrifera, documenting their antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects based on preclinical data. It also identified genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, highlighting the plant's medicinal potential while noting the lack of human trials.
https://www.bohrium.com/paper-details/medicinal-potential-of-broussonetia-papyrifera-chemical-composition-and-biological-activity-analysis/1102080642121728009-9593 – This review article explores the medicinal potential of Broussonetia papyrifera, detailing its chemical composition and biological activities. It summarizes various compounds found in the plant and their reported effects, emphasizing the need for further research to translate preclinical findings into clinical applications.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6010046/ – This in vitro experimental study isolated 10 active polyphenols from Broussonetia papyrifera and demonstrated their potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, with an IC50 of approximately 9.3 μg/mL. The findings suggest a potential antidiabetic mechanism, though further clinical validation is required.
https://www.animbiosci.org/upload/pdf/ajas-17-0847.pdf – This randomized controlled trial in cattle investigated the effects of Broussonetia papyrifera silage on animal health. The study found that feeding Broussonetia papyrifera improved dry matter intake and immune function in cattle, providing insights into its nutritional and immunomodulatory properties in an animal model.