Mulberry trees have flavorful berries that are consumed all over the world and are frequently referred to as superfoods because of the high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and potent plant compounds in them.
However, the mulberry tree's other parts may also be beneficial for health. Its leaves have been utilised for generations in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions.
The leaves are nutrient-dense. They are rich in vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium as well as potent plant components including polyphenol antioxidants.
We will explore the importance of mulberry leaf, its role in blood glucose management, as well as its advantages and disadvantages, in this article.
What is the Significance of Mulberry Leaves?
Mulberry leaves (Morus) belong to the plant family Moraceae and include several species, such as the black mulberry (M. nigra), the red mulberry (M. rubra), and the white mulberry (M. alba).
Its origins are rooted in China, and the mulberry tree's presence now extends across continents, including the United States, Europe, Asia, and Africa, nurtured by cultivation practices.
Mulberry leaves are extremely adaptable and have numerous uses in the culinary, medical, and industrial worlds.
Traditionally people consume mulberry leaves without having any negative side effects and has been a part of Chinese medicine for over a century. The young mulberry leaves are believed to have a pleasant flavor and are frequently used to prepare tinctures and herbal teas, which is a popular health drink in Asia. After being cooked, the young leaves can be eaten.
Additionally, these leaves are the sole source of food for the silkworm (a caterpillar that creates silk) and are occasionally fed to dairy animals.
Now let's see the benefits of mulberry leaves.
Amazing Health Benefits of Mulberry Leaves:
Mulberries and mulberry leaf extract may be effective in the treatment of a variety of chronic illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Here are some of the amazing benefits of Mulberry leaves.
1. Blood Sugar and Insulin Regulation:
Mulberry leaf is a rich source of flavonoids and iminosugars, which plays a crucial role in managing type-2 diabetes.
Blood Sugar Regulation: One of the standout benefits of mulberry leaves lies in their potential to regulate blood sugar levels. Compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, polyphenols, and imino sugars like 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) have been identified as contributors to this effect. These compounds inhibit enzymes responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, leading to slower absorption of sugars from the digestive tract. This mechanism helps prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels after meals, a critical concern in diabetes management.
Insulin Sensitivity: Research suggests that mulberry leaves may also enhance insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that facilitates the uptake of glucose (sugar) into cells for energy. In type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Some studies propose that the bioactive compounds in mulberry leaves could improve insulin sensitivity, enabling cells to respond more effectively to insulin signals.
2. Promotes Heart Health:
Mulberry leaf extract has shown potential for promoting heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as inflammation and atherosclerosis.
Studies have indicated that regular intake of mulberry leaf supplements can lead to a decrease in LDL (bad) cholesterol and an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol. Additionally, research on animal models has suggested that mulberry leaves can help prevent atherosclerosis and reduce high blood pressure, both of which are significant risk factors for heart disease.
3. Immune System Boost:
The antioxidant-rich nature of mulberry leaves can contribute to strengthening the immune system. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and supporting the immune response against infections and diseases. Including mulberry leaves in your diet could be a natural way to enhance your body's defence mechanisms.
4. Improves Bone Health:
Mulberry leaves are a good source of minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for bone density and can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis. Adding mulberry leaves to your daily routine might be a simple yet effective way to support strong and healthy bones.
5. Anti-Aging Properties:
The antioxidant compounds found in mulberry leaves, such as flavonoids, may have anti-aging effects. Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can accelerate the aging process. Regular consumption or topical application of mulberry leaf extract might help maintain youthful-looking skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
6. Additional Health Benefits:
Mulberry leaves may have benefits other than diabetes and heart health. New research reveals that it may have anticancer effects on some cancer cells, as well as potential liver health advantages such as liver cell protection and inflammation reduction. Furthermore, some animal research suggests that mulberry leaves may aid in weight loss by increasing fat burning.
Recipe and Supplements with Mulberry Leaves:
Here are some beneficial recipes and supplements featuring the power of mulberry leaves. Give them a try to unlock their potential advantages.
Mulberry Leaf Tea Recipe:
Mulberry Leaf Tea has relaxing properties, so try it now!
Requirements:
- 2 tablespoons of dried mulberry leaves
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, for sweetness)
Follow these Steps:
- Pour 4 cups of cold water into the vessel and add 2 tablespoons of dried mulberry leaves.
- Boil it for 5 minutes in simmer and strain the liquid to remove the mulberry leaves.
- Add 1 teaspoon of honey which is completely optional.
Enjoy the mulberry leaf tea warm.
Mulberry Supplements:
You can also take mulberry leaf supplements, which are becoming increasingly popular due to their potential health benefits. Here, we have one best supplement in the market is Moderate™.
The proprietary ingredient of this supplement is Glubloc which is a blend of “Morus alba L extract and Morus domestica rind extract”.
Scientific studies identified that Moderate can block the enzymes responsible for converting carbohydrates to sugars and improve insulin sensitivity, helping to manage blood glucose levels and aid weight loss.
Moderate is a scientifically proven and safe solution that helps reduce the absorption of carbohydrates and calories by up to 40% after consumption. By doing so, it effectively reduces post-meal sugar and insulin spikes, contributing to stable blood sugar levels.
You can experience its benefits firsthand by comparing your blood sugar levels 60 minutes after consuming a carbohydrate-rich meal without Moderate and then repeating the same meal the following day after taking a tablet of Moderate just before eating. You'll notice a significant decrease in blood sugar levels after taking Moderate, indicating a reduced sugar and calorie load entering your body.
Benefits of Moderate Tablet:
- Up to 40%* Reduction in calories and sugars after a carb-heavy meal.
- Avoid sugar rush and crash.
- Transform high-GI foods into low-GI treats, allowing you to savor every bite.
- Control hunger pangs.
- Support healthy gut microbiome.
How to Take Moderate?
- Take one Moderate Tablet, 10 minutes before your meal.
- Consume a meal or beverage of your choice.
- Check your sugar levels after 1 hour of having food; you will notice lower sugar levels and the same energy levels.
What are the Side Effects of Mulberry Leaves?
Although mulberry leaf has been proven to be generally safe in both human and animal research, it may cause unwanted effects in some people.
In some rare cases, consuming mulberry leaves in high amounts can cause side effects such as diarrhoea, bloating, and constipation. In general plant-based supplements have this kind of side effect, which is very common in first use.
Due to most of the research done on adults, it is recommended that children, pregnant women, and people who are breastfeeding avoid using it.
Bottom Line:
Mulberry leaves, often overshadowed by their berries, offer an array of health benefits. From regulating blood sugar and promoting heart health to bolstering immunity and supporting bone health, these leaves have much to offer. Innovative supplements like "Moderate™" lead the way in blood sugar and insulin management, and overall vitality.
Now, you can conduct Genetic DNA Test for Diabetes using Moderate DNA Swab Test Kit. Order online now.
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Reference:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5321430/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26850343/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17135021/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6130672/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28878804/
- https://assets.researchsquare.com/files/rs-3038659/v2/4bade4fc-2d17-4b56-9adf-dc0c284eb223.pdf?c=1686582308
- https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/30/5/1272/29959/Influence-of-Mulberry-Leaf-Extract-on-the-Blood
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29530616/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20687135/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31312821/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6412198/
*** This Article is Written by Swetha Ramala, MSc. in Food, Nutrition & Dietetics. |