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White Mulberry Leaf

Also known as: Morus alba L., White Mulberry Leaf, Mulberry Leaf Extract (MLE), Folium Mori, Morus alba

Overview

White Mulberry Leaf, derived from the *Morus alba* tree, is a herbal supplement and functional food ingredient primarily used for glycemic control and lipid metabolism regulation. Native to Asia and cultivated worldwide, it contains bioactive compounds like 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), flavonoids, and polysaccharides. DNJ acts as an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, slowing carbohydrate digestion. Research suggests it can reduce fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and fasting plasma insulin levels. While evidence is moderate, with several RCTs and meta-analyses available, study designs and populations vary. It is generally well-tolerated, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort reported in some individuals. White Mulberry Leaf is available in various forms, including leaf powder, capsules, and standardized extracts, and is often taken with meals to maximize its effects on carbohydrate digestion.

Benefits

White Mulberry Leaf has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, particularly in glycemic control. Meta-analyses of RCTs show significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) by approximately -0.47 mmol/L and HbA1c by -2.92 mmol/mol. It also reduces fasting plasma insulin (FPI) by -0.58 μIU/mL. These effects are more pronounced in individuals with baseline FBG >6.1 mmol/L and in non-healthy populations. Furthermore, it exhibits favorable effects on lipid profiles and other cardiometabolic risk factors. Long-term supplementation (≥8 weeks) appears to enhance these benefits. While effect sizes are modest, the clinical relevance is notable in populations with impaired glucose tolerance or early-stage diabetes. The quality of evidence is generally good, supported by multiple RCTs and systematic reviews.

How it works

White Mulberry Leaf primarily works by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme in the small intestine responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into glucose. This inhibition, largely attributed to the compound 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), slows down carbohydrate digestion and absorption, leading to a reduction in postprandial blood glucose spikes. Additionally, it may enhance glucose uptake in peripheral tissues and modulate insulin secretion and sensitivity. These actions primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract, liver (by influencing gluconeogenesis), and peripheral tissues involved in glucose metabolism. The active components, such as DNJ and flavonoids, are absorbed, although their exact bioavailability in humans is not fully understood.

Side effects

White Mulberry Leaf is generally well-tolerated, with mild side effects being the most commonly reported adverse events. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhea. Rare reports of allergic reactions have also been documented. Due to its potential to lower blood glucose, White Mulberry Leaf may have additive effects with antidiabetic medications, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Caution is advised when combining it with such drugs, and blood glucose levels should be monitored closely. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to mulberry or related plants. Limited data exist regarding its safety during pregnancy, lactation, and in children, so caution is advised in these populations. No major safety concerns have been reported in human studies, but comprehensive long-term safety data are still needed.

Dosage

The optimal dosage of White Mulberry Leaf varies, but most studies use 1–3 g/day of leaf powder or 300–1000 mg/day of a standardized extract (containing 1–5% DNJ). It is typically taken with meals to maximize its alpha-glucosidase inhibitory effects. While a minimum effective dose is not well-established, these ranges are commonly used in clinical trials. Animal studies suggest high doses (up to 1 g/kg/day) are well-tolerated, but human data are limited, so exceeding recommended dosages is not advised. Standardized extracts are preferred for consistent dosing. Absorption is best when taken with food, as DNJ and flavonoids are water-soluble. Individuals using antidiabetic medications should monitor their blood glucose levels closely when starting White Mulberry Leaf supplementation.

FAQs

Is White Mulberry Leaf safe?

It is generally safe for most adults, but monitor for hypoglycemia if used with antidiabetic drugs. Discontinue use if you experience any allergic reactions or severe gastrointestinal discomfort.

When should I take White Mulberry Leaf?

Take it with meals for optimal effect. This timing maximizes its ability to inhibit carbohydrate digestion and reduce postprandial blood glucose spikes.

What results can I expect?

Expect modest improvements in glycemic control and lipid profiles, especially with long-term use. It is not a substitute for diabetes medication; effects are adjunctive.

Can White Mulberry Leaf replace my diabetes medication?

No, it is not a substitute for diabetes medication. Its effects are adjunctive and should be monitored by a healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your treatment plan.

Are there any side effects?

Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or diarrhea. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36644880/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (615 participants) found significant reductions in FBG, HbA1c, and FPI with White Mulberry Leaf supplementation. The effects were more pronounced in non-healthy individuals and those with high baseline FBG. The study highlights the potential of White Mulberry Leaf as an adjunct therapy for glycemic control, but notes heterogeneity in study designs.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpt.13822 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of White Mulberry Leaf on cardiometabolic risk factors. The review indicated favorable effects on lipid profiles and glycemic control. While the methodology was systematic, the review provided limited details on individual study quality and population characteristics.
https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-2432-2732 – This research likely discusses the impact of mulberry leaf extract on type 2 diabetes. Further information would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it appears to be relevant to the overall topic of mulberry leaf and its effects on blood sugar.
https://www.mooiverouderen.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Mulberryleafectract_2023_review.pdf – This review likely provides an overview of the existing research on mulberry leaf extract. Further information would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it appears to be relevant to the overall topic of mulberry leaf and its effects on blood sugar.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Impact-of-mulberry-leaf-extract-on-type-2-diabetes-Riche-Riche/43b5f7f7d1df86d2b5faae77d2836a44abfcdca7 – This paper discusses the impact of mulberry leaf extract on type 2 diabetes. Further information would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it appears to be relevant to the overall topic of mulberry leaf and its effects on blood sugar.