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Mulberry Fruit

Also known as: Morus nigra, Morus atropurpurea, Morus laevigata, Morus rubra, Mulberry fruit, Mulberry leaf, Morus alba

Overview

Mulberry fruit and leaf extracts are derived from the *Morus* species, traditionally recognized for their medicinal properties. The fruit is particularly rich in beneficial compounds such as flavonoids, phenolics, and polysaccharides. A key active component, especially in the leaf, is 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Primary applications of mulberry extracts include supporting glycemic control, offering significant antioxidant effects, and demonstrating potential neuroprotective properties. While research on glycemic effects is robust, supported by multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, evidence for neuroprotection is primarily from preclinical studies. The quality of evidence for glycemic control is relatively high, making mulberry a promising botanical for metabolic health.

Benefits

Mulberry fruit and leaf extracts offer several evidence-based benefits, primarily in metabolic health and with promising, albeit preliminary, neuroprotective effects. **Glycemic Control:** High-quality evidence from a 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 615 participants demonstrated that mulberry leaf or leaf extract supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose by -0.47 mmol/L, HbA1c by -2.92 mmol/mol, and fasting plasma insulin by -0.58 μIU/mL. These effects were more pronounced with supplementation lasting 8 weeks or longer and in individuals with baseline fasting plasma glucose levels above 6.1 mmol/L. This indicates strong support for its use in managing blood sugar, particularly in those with impaired glucose metabolism. **Postprandial Glucose Regulation:** Acute intake of mulberry leaf extract containing at least 6 mg of DNJ has been shown to reduce postprandial (after-meal) glucose and insulin levels. The timing of intake, specifically evening administration, appears to enhance this efficacy, suggesting a practical application for managing blood sugar spikes after meals. **Neuroprotective Effects:** Preclinical in vivo studies, primarily in animal models, suggest that mulberry fruit extracts may improve cognitive function and exhibit antioxidant, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), antidepressant, and anti-ischemic activities. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to note that human clinical trials are currently lacking to confirm these neuroprotective benefits.

How it works

The primary mechanism by which mulberry extracts, particularly those from the leaf, exert their glycemic benefits is through the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase enzymes. This action is largely attributed to 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a potent compound that delays the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, thereby reducing postprandial glucose spikes. Additionally, the rich content of antioxidant flavonoids and phenolics in mulberry contributes to reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. This broad antioxidant activity may underlie some of the observed metabolic benefits and the potential neuroprotective effects by protecting cells from damage. The bioavailability of DNJ peaks approximately 1.5 hours after oral intake, which explains its timing-dependent effects on glucose metabolism.

Side effects

Mulberry fruit and leaf extracts are generally considered safe for consumption, with clinical trials reporting a low incidence of adverse effects. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and transient, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or mild stomach upset. These instances are rare and not considered severe. Currently, there are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been extensively documented in the reviewed scientific literature. However, it is important to note that specific safety data for certain populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, are insufficient. Therefore, caution is advised for these groups due to the lack of comprehensive research. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating mulberry extracts into their regimen to ensure safety and avoid potential unforeseen interactions.

Dosage

For glycemic control, effective doses of mulberry leaf extract typically involve standardization for 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) content, ranging from approximately 3 to 9 mg of DNJ per dose. To achieve more robust and sustained improvements in glycemic parameters, long-term supplementation, generally defined as 8 weeks or more, has been associated with better outcomes. The timing of intake can also influence efficacy; studies suggest that evening administration of mulberry leaf extract may optimize postprandial glucose regulation compared to morning intake. Mulberry supplements are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid extracts. For optimal efficacy and consistent results, it is recommended to use standardized extracts where the DNJ content is quantified, as this ensures a consistent amount of the active compound. While specific upper limits are not well-defined due to the generally safe profile, adhering to recommended dosages is advisable.

FAQs

Is mulberry fruit effective for blood sugar control?

Yes, particularly mulberry leaf extract standardized for DNJ has shown clinically significant reductions in fasting and postprandial glucose and HbA1c in adults with impaired glucose metabolism.

Are there neuroprotective benefits?

Animal studies suggest potential neuroprotective effects, including improved cognitive function and antioxidant activity. However, human clinical evidence is currently lacking to confirm these benefits.

Is it safe?

Mulberry extracts are generally considered safe with minimal and rare side effects, primarily mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No significant drug interactions have been widely reported.

When should it be taken?

For optimal postprandial glucose control, studies suggest that evening intake of mulberry leaf extract may be more effective than morning intake.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36644880/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (615 participants) found that mulberry leaf or leaf extract supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting plasma insulin. The study concluded that longer supplementation durations and higher baseline glucose levels correlated with more pronounced effects, providing high-quality evidence for mulberry's glycemic benefits.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8033976/ – This systematic review of in vivo studies focused on animal models, indicating that mulberry fruit extracts improved cognitive function and exhibited antioxidant, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and anti-ischemic activities. The review highlights promising preclinical evidence for neuroprotective effects but emphasizes the absence of human clinical trials.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41430-023-01259-x – This randomized crossover trial involving young adults demonstrated that evening intake of mulberry leaf extract (containing ≥6 mg DNJ) significantly reduced postprandial glucose and insulin levels compared to morning intake. The study suggests that timing of administration is a crucial factor for optimizing the efficacy of mulberry extract in glucose regulation.