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Mulberry Leaf Powder

Also known as: Mulberry Leaf, Mulberry Leaf Powder, Morus spp.

Overview

Mulberry leaf powder is derived from the leaves of the mulberry tree (*Morus* spp.) and is recognized for its rich content of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolics, and the iminosugar alkaloid 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ). It is primarily utilized for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels and improve cardiometabolic health. Research, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, indicates its efficacy in modulating glycemic traits and influencing cardiovascular risk factors. The evidence base is generally robust, with well-designed randomized controlled trials supporting its benefits, particularly in glucose metabolism. It is commonly consumed as a herbal supplement.

Benefits

Mulberry leaf powder offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in metabolic health. Its most significant effect is on glycemic control, where it has been shown to reduce fasting blood glucose (FBG) by approximately -0.47 mmol/L, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by -2.92 mmol/mol, and fasting plasma insulin (FPI) by -0.58 μIU/mL in adults. These effects are statistically significant and clinically relevant, especially with long-term supplementation (≥8 weeks) and in individuals with baseline FPG >6.1 mmol/L. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, a blend containing mulberry leaf extract has been shown to reduce postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels. While general mulberry consumption may favorably affect cardiometabolic risk factors, the specific effects of mulberry leaf powder alone are less extensively documented. Animal studies also suggest benefits in growth and production parameters in livestock. The quality of evidence for glycemic control is high, with well-conducted meta-analyses supporting these findings.

How it works

Mulberry leaf powder exerts its effects primarily through its bioactive compounds, notably 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), flavonoids, and phenolics. DNJ is a potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, meaning it delays the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestine. By inhibiting these enzymes, mulberry leaf powder reduces the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars, thereby mitigating postprandial glucose spikes. Additionally, these compounds may contribute to improved insulin secretion and enhanced insulin sensitivity, further aiding in glucose regulation. The combined action of these compounds helps to modulate overall glucose metabolism.

Side effects

Mulberry leaf powder is generally considered safe for consumption in typical dietary amounts. However, comprehensive data on its long-term safety and potential adverse effects are limited. There is insufficient specific data to identify common, uncommon, or rare side effects directly attributable to mulberry leaf powder. Some potential for gastrointestinal disturbances exists, though not well-documented. A significant concern is its potential interaction with medications, particularly diabetes medications, due to its glucose-lowering effects. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using mulberry leaf powder to avoid hypoglycemia. There are no specific contraindications identified beyond caution for diabetics. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use due to the lack of sufficient safety data in these special populations.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for mulberry leaf powder's glycemic control benefits is not definitively established, but studies often utilize doses containing 250 mg to 1 gram of mulberry leaf extract per day. Optimal dosage ranges typically fall between 250 mg to several grams daily, varying based on the specific formulation and desired therapeutic outcome. There is no officially established maximum safe dose, and high doses should be approached with caution due to limited long-term safety data. Timing considerations often involve taking the supplement before meals to maximize its effect on postprandial glucose levels. Mulberry leaf powder can be consumed as a standalone supplement or incorporated into food products. While no specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, some formulations combine it with other nutrients like vitamin D and chromium to potentially enhance effects. Bioavailability of active compounds may vary depending on the preparation and individual physiological factors.

FAQs

Is Mulberry Leaf Powder Safe for Diabetics?

Yes, it is generally considered safe, but individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely due to its glucose-lowering effects and potential interactions with diabetes medications.

How Long Does It Take to See Benefits?

Benefits, particularly for glycemic control, may become more pronounced with long-term supplementation, typically after 8 weeks or more of consistent use.

Can It Interact with Medications?

Yes, there is a potential for interaction with diabetes medications due to its blood sugar-lowering properties. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining it with prescription drugs.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36644880/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 clinical trials (615 participants) found that mulberry leaf supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting plasma insulin. The effects were more pronounced with long-term supplementation (≥8 weeks) and in individuals with higher baseline glucose levels, indicating its potential for glycemic control.
https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/71/Supplement_1/41-LB/145225/41-LB-A-Randomized-Placebo-Controlled-Crossover – This randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial in 30 individuals with type 2 diabetes demonstrated that a specific blend containing mulberry leaf extract significantly reduced postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels. While the study was well-designed, its small sample size and the inclusion of other ingredients limit the direct attribution of effects solely to mulberry leaf.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13822 – This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the effects of mulberry consumption on cardiometabolic risk factors. It indicated favorable effects on these factors generally, but noted that the specific impact of mulberry leaf powder alone was less extensively documented compared to other mulberry products, suggesting a need for more targeted research.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11065948/ – This article discusses the use of mulberry leaf extract in animal feed, highlighting its potential to improve growth and production parameters in poultry and livestock. It suggests that mulberry leaf can positively influence meat quality and composition, indicating broader applications beyond human health.