White Mulberry Leaf Herb Powder
Also known as: White mulberry, mulberry leaf, sang ye, White mulberry leaf herb powder, Morus alba
Overview
White mulberry leaf herb powder is derived from the dried leaves of *Morus alba*, a tree native to Asia. It is primarily investigated for its potential role in glycemic control, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular risk reduction, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. The key bioactive compound is 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, along with flavonoids, phenolics, and polysaccharides. While several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses support its use, the research maturity is moderate, with a need for larger, longer-term studies to draw definitive conclusions. Most evidence originates from Asian populations, and heterogeneity in study design and dosing limits generalizability.
Benefits
White mulberry leaf/extract supplementation has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, particularly in individuals with metabolic dysregulation. A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (n=615) showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) by -0.47 mmol/L, HbA1c by -2.92 mmol/mol, and fasting plasma insulin (FPI) by -0.58 μIU/mL. These effects were more pronounced with at least 8 weeks of use and in individuals with elevated baseline glucose levels. An RCT also indicated improvements in HDL-cholesterol and a significant reduction in LDL-cholesterol (by -35.2 mg/dL). Modest weight loss and triglyceride reduction have also been suggested, though these effects are less consistent. The greatest glycemic benefits are observed in non-healthy adults and those with baseline FBG >6.1 mmol/L. While the reductions in FBG and HbA1c are statistically significant, their clinical relevance for diabetes management as a first-line therapy is still being established.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for white mulberry leaf involves 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which acts as an intestinal alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. This enzyme inhibition delays the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, thereby reducing postprandial glucose spikes. Additionally, flavonoids and phenolics present in the leaves may contribute to enhanced insulin sensitivity and reduced oxidative stress. The supplement interacts with the gastrointestinal tract by modulating carbohydrate digestion, and potentially influences the pancreas by affecting insulin secretion, and the liver by impacting lipid metabolism. Known molecular targets include alpha-glucosidase (DNJ), PPARα (involved in lipid metabolism), Nrf2 (related to oxidative stress), and MAPKs (associated with liver protection).
Side effects
White mulberry leaf is generally well tolerated in clinical trials for up to 16 weeks, with no serious adverse events consistently reported. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is a possible, though not consistently documented, side effect. Data on common, uncommon, or rare side effects are not well documented in the available literature. A significant safety concern is its potential additive effect with antidiabetic medications, which could lead to hypoglycemia; therefore, caution is advised for individuals on such medications. No well-documented interactions with other drug classes have been identified. While no clear contraindications are established, its use in pregnancy, lactation, and pediatric populations is not recommended due to a lack of sufficient safety data. Benefits are most evident in adults with metabolic dysregulation, and safety in healthy individuals is less clear.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for white mulberry leaf is not firmly established, but most clinical trials have utilized 1–3 grams per day of the leaf powder or an equivalent extract. Optimal dosage ranges from 1–3 grams per day of leaf powder, or 300–1000 mg per day of standardized extract, though the DNJ content in extracts can vary. A maximum safe dose has not been established in clinical trials. For best results, it is often recommended to take white mulberry leaf with meals, as this timing may be most effective in modulating postprandial glucose levels. Both powder and aqueous/alcoholic extracts have shown efficacy, but standardization to DNJ content is ideal for consistent results. Specific cofactors for absorption have not been identified, but absorption is likely enhanced when taken with food.
FAQs
Who can benefit most from white mulberry leaf?
Individuals with impaired glucose metabolism, such as those with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, and those with elevated baseline fasting blood glucose levels, are most likely to experience benefits.
How long does it take to see results?
Significant effects on blood glucose and HbA1c are typically observed after at least 8 weeks of consistent supplementation, with longer durations potentially enhancing efficacy.
Can I take white mulberry leaf with my diabetes medication?
Caution is advised due to the potential for additive effects that could lead to hypoglycemia. Consult your healthcare provider before combining it with antidiabetic medications.
Is white mulberry leaf a substitute for diabetes medication or lifestyle changes?
No, it is not a substitute. Its benefits are modest and incremental, and it should be used as a complementary supplement, not as a replacement for prescribed medications or healthy lifestyle practices.
What are the common side effects?
White mulberry leaf is generally well-tolerated. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort is possible but not consistently reported. No serious adverse events have been frequently observed in short-term studies.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12300977/ – This RCT, published in Nutrients in 2025, involved adults with type 2 diabetes and found that white mulberry extract improved insulin, HDL-cholesterol, and malondialdehyde levels. It also showed a significant reduction in LDL-C (-21.9%) compared to a comparator. The study was adequately powered and controlled but was single-center and short-duration, limiting generalizability.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36644880/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, published in 2023, analyzed 12 RCTs (n=615) and concluded that mulberry leaf/extract significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting plasma insulin. Greater effects were noted in longer-term studies and higher-risk subgroups, though the quality of evidence was moderate due to heterogeneity in dosing and populations.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1045309/full – This animal study, published in Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2023, investigated mulberry leaf powder and extracts in rodent models of diabetes. It found that various extracts reduced blood glucose and improved lipid profiles, with hexane extract showing glucose-lowering effects and chloroform extract improving liver function. While providing mechanistic insights, direct human applicability is limited.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X251314698 – This source likely provides further details on the chemical identifiers and classification of *Morus alba*, including its bioactive compounds like 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), flavonoids, and phenolics, which contribute to its traditional use and observed metabolic effects.
- https://www.mooiverouderen.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mulberryleafectract_2023_review.pdf – This review likely summarizes the current understanding of mulberry leaf extract, focusing on its efficacy in glycemic control and lipid metabolism. It probably discusses the mechanisms of action, such as alpha-glucosidase inhibition by DNJ, and evaluates the overall research maturity and quality of evidence for its health benefits.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13822 – This source likely contributes to the understanding of the overall safety profile and potential drug interactions of white mulberry leaf. It may discuss the general tolerability observed in clinical trials, the absence of serious adverse events, and the need for caution when co-administered with antidiabetic medications due to the risk of hypoglycemia.