Can I Boil Mulberry Leaves and Drink it Before?

January 11, 2026 •

4 min read

For centuries, traditional Asian medicine has utilized mulberry leaves for their therapeutic properties. In many cultures, boiling and drinking these leaves as an herbal tea is a common practice for wellness. This article explores the process, benefits, and safety considerations for those asking, 'Can I boil mulberry leaves and drink it before?'

Quick Summary

This guide provides instructions on how to prepare and safely consume mulberry leaf tea. It covers the health benefits, potential side effects, and recommended preparation methods for both fresh and dried leaves.

Key Points

Boiling is Safe: It is safe to boil and drink mulberry leaves, a practice common in traditional medicine for centuries.
Blood Sugar Control: Compounds in mulberry leaves, like DNJ, can help lower blood sugar by blocking carbohydrate absorption.
Heart Health Support: Drinking mulberry leaf tea may help improve cholesterol and blood pressure levels, promoting cardiovascular health.
Rich in Antioxidants: The leaves are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that combat oxidative stress.
Potential Side Effects: Some people may experience mild digestive upset, and individuals on certain medications (especially for diabetes) should consult a doctor before consuming.
Use Fresh or Dried: Both fresh and properly dried leaves can be used to make tea, with slightly different preparation methods.

Understanding Mulberry Leaf Tea

Mulberry leaves come from the Morus tree and have been used medicinally for thousands of years, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids, as well as essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, these leaves offer numerous potential health benefits. Consuming them as a tea is a simple and effective way to harness these properties.

Preparing Mulberry Leaf Tea: Step-by-Step

Creating your own mulberry leaf tea at home is straightforward. You can use either fresh or dried leaves, with slightly different methods for each.

Using Fresh Mulberry Leaves

Harvesting: Select young, vibrant green leaves that are free from pests or damage. Harvest in the morning for the freshest leaves.
Washing: Rinse the leaves thoroughly under cool, running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Chopping: Chop the leaves into rough strips or smaller pieces to help with infusion.
Boiling: Add the chopped leaves to a pot of water (about 1 cup of leaves per 5 cups of water).
Steeping: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the water turns a light green color.
Straining: Strain the leaves out and serve the tea hot. You can add honey or lemon to taste.

Using Dried Mulberry Leaves

Measuring: Measure about one teaspoon of dried, crumbled mulberry leaves per cup of water.
Boiling: Boil fresh water and then allow it to cool for a minute or two (around 180-195°F) to preserve delicate nutrients.
Steeping: Place the leaves in a teapot or mug with an infuser. Pour the hot water over the leaves and steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your preferred strength.
Serving: Strain and enjoy. The tea can be served hot or chilled as an iced tea.

Health Benefits of Mulberry Leaf Tea

Scientific studies and traditional use suggest a range of health benefits associated with drinking mulberry leaf tea:

Blood Sugar Regulation: Mulberry leaves contain 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which blocks carbohydrate absorption in the gut and can lower blood glucose levels, making it beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes.
Heart Health: The tea may help reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation, which are all risk factors for heart disease. Some studies show a reduction in LDL ('bad') cholesterol and triglycerides.
Antioxidant Power: Rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants, mulberry tea helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of mulberry leaves may help combat chronic inflammation, a factor in many long-term diseases.
Weight Management: Some rodent studies suggest that mulberry leaf extract can help reduce fat absorption and promote weight loss, though more human research is needed.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe for most healthy adults, there are important precautions to consider before incorporating mulberry leaf tea into your routine:

Digestive Upset: Some individuals report mild digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, especially with higher intake or when first starting.
Hypoglycemia: Because mulberry leaves can lower blood sugar, individuals taking diabetes medication should consult a healthcare professional before use to prevent hypoglycemia.
Specific Populations: Children, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid mulberry leaf tea due to insufficient research on its safety in these groups.
Medication Interactions: Always consult your doctor if you take other medications, particularly for blood pressure or cholesterol, to prevent potential interactions.

Dried vs. Fresh Mulberry Leaves


Feature	Dried Leaves	Fresh Leaves
Availability	Accessible year-round in specialty tea shops or online.	Seasonal and only available when trees are in leaf.
Convenience	Easy to store and use; simply measure and steep.	Requires harvesting, washing, and chopping.
Flavor Profile	Often milder and more mellow due to the drying process.	Brighter, more earthy, and sometimes more bitter.
Nutrient Concentration	Some nutrients may be more concentrated by weight, but heat-sensitive compounds like Vitamin C may be reduced.	Higher content of heat-sensitive vitamins, especially if steeped below boiling.
Preparation	Steep in hot water (slightly below boiling) for 5-10 minutes.	Can be simmered in boiling water for 10-15 minutes.

Conclusion: A Traditional Tea with Modern Promise

Yes, you can absolutely boil mulberry leaves and drink them as a tea. This practice is rooted in centuries of traditional use and is now supported by modern research highlighting its potential benefits for blood sugar, heart health, and antioxidant intake. Whether you choose fresh or dried leaves, careful preparation can yield a delicious and healthful beverage. However, it is crucial to start with moderate consumption and consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication. By approaching it with knowledge and caution, mulberry leaf tea can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.

[Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new herbal supplement.]

Frequently Asked Questions

For tea, consuming up to three cups per day is generally recommended. For specific conditions or when using concentrated extracts or supplements, consult a healthcare provider for the appropriate dosage.

Yes, you can use fresh mulberry leaves. Wash them thoroughly, chop them, and simmer them in boiling water for about 10-15 minutes before straining and drinking.

No, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of sufficient safety research in these populations.

Yes, mulberry leaf can interact with medications, particularly those for diabetes and blood pressure. Always consult a doctor before consumption if you are taking any medication.

The most commonly reported side effects include mild digestive upset, such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, especially when taken in high amounts.

Mulberry tea has a subtle, earthy flavor. The taste can vary slightly between fresh and dried leaves, and many people add honey, lemon, or mint to enhance the flavor.

While high heat can reduce some heat-sensitive nutrients like Vitamin C, the primary beneficial compounds like antioxidants and DNJ are typically stable enough to remain in the tea after brewing. Some recommend steeping in slightly cooler water for a gentler extraction.