What is the medicinal value of mulberry and its components?

December 17, 2025 •

4 min read

For centuries, traditional Chinese medicine has utilized mulberry and its various parts to address a wide range of ailments. This rich history has prompted modern research to investigate the scientific basis for the purported medicinal value of mulberry, revealing a wealth of bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.

Quick Summary

Mulberry, a plant with deep roots in traditional medicine, possesses significant therapeutic potential. Its fruits, leaves, and bark contain bioactive compounds like anthocyanins and DNJ, which demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects based on recent studies.

Key Points

Blood Sugar Management: Mulberry leaves contain 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing carbohydrate absorption.
Antioxidant Protection: Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and flavonoids, mulberries combat oxidative stress and protect against chronic diseases.
Cardiovascular Health: Studies show mulberry fruit consumption can lower total cholesterol and LDL, and extracts may help regulate blood pressure.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Bioactive compounds in mulberry reduce inflammatory markers, offering therapeutic potential for inflammatory conditions.
Liver Protection: Both fruit and leaf extracts have demonstrated hepatoprotective effects against damage from high-fat diets and alcohol.
Skin Brightening: Mulberry extract inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme that produces melanin, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten skin.
Traditional Roots: Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, modern research is validating many of mulberry's traditional uses.

The Bioactive Powerhouse of Mulberry

The medicinal properties of the mulberry tree (genus Morus) are attributed to a diverse array of phytochemicals found in its fruit, leaves, and bark. These compounds work synergistically to provide a range of health benefits, as documented by numerous scientific studies. Key bioactive components include:

Anthocyanins: These are the water-soluble pigments that give black and red mulberries their deep color. As potent antioxidants, anthocyanins help neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases. Black mulberries are especially rich in these compounds.
Flavonoids: A broad class of antioxidants, flavonoids found in mulberries include quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol. These have been studied for their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective effects.
1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ): Predominantly found in mulberry leaves, this alkaloid is a potent alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. It blocks the absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, which helps to slow the rise in blood sugar after meals.
Resveratrol: A polyphenolic compound also found in red wine, resveratrol is present in mulberries and is noted for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with potential anti-aging effects.

Blood Sugar Regulation and Anti-Diabetic Potential

One of the most researched aspects of mulberry's medicinal value is its effect on blood sugar. The presence of DNJ in mulberry leaves makes them particularly relevant for diabetes management.

Inhibits carbohydrate absorption: By inhibiting the alpha-glucosidase enzyme, DNJ slows the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. This delays glucose absorption into the bloodstream and prevents rapid blood sugar spikes after a meal.
Improves insulin sensitivity: Research suggests that mulberry leaf extract may help to regulate insulin levels and improve insulin sensitivity. This mechanism supports better overall glycemic control, making it a promising area for further study in type 2 diabetes management.
Low glycemic index: The fruit itself has a low glycemic index (GI of 25), making it a suitable option for individuals needing to manage their blood sugar, provided it is consumed in moderation.

Cardiovascular and Circulatory Health

Mulberries offer multiple benefits for the heart and circulatory system, primarily due to their rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content.

Reduces cholesterol: Studies have shown that mulberry fruit consumption can lead to significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL ('bad') cholesterol in hypercholesterolemic subjects. The fiber, especially soluble fiber, aids in this process.
Improves blood pressure: Animal studies and human clinical trials suggest that mulberry leaf extract can help normalize blood pressure levels. Some research indicates this may be due to its ability to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and block calcium channels.
Supports vascular health: The flavonoids and anthocyanins protect blood vessels from oxidative damage, which is a major factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis.
Enhances blood circulation: The high iron content, particularly in the fruit, is vital for red blood cell production, which improves oxygen transport and overall circulation.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are underlying causes of many modern diseases. Mulberry's high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds makes it a valuable preventative agent.

Combats oxidative stress: The powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins and flavonoids effectively scavenge free radicals, protecting cells from damage. This protective action is crucial for preventing the initiation of cellular damage that can lead to cancer and other chronic conditions.
Downregulates inflammatory markers: Mulberry extracts, especially from the leaves, have been shown to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α. This helps to soothe and prevent chronic inflammation throughout the body.

Liver and Skin Health

Beyond cardiovascular and metabolic health, mulberry has also shown promising effects for the liver and skin, areas where oxidative stress and inflammation play a significant role.

Protects the liver: In vitro and animal studies indicate that both mulberry fruit and leaf extracts can protect liver cells from damage. Mulberry extract has been shown to combat damage caused by high-fat diets and alcohol by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Brightens skin complexion: Mulberry extract is gaining traction in the cosmetic industry for its ability to brighten skin and reduce hyperpigmentation. It achieves this by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, without the harsh side effects of some synthetic agents.
Anti-aging effects: The antioxidants and vitamins in mulberry promote cell turnover and collagen synthesis, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for collagen production and protecting the skin from UV damage.

Comparison of Mulberry Parts


Part of Mulberry	Primary Bioactive Compounds	Noteworthy Medicinal Value	Preparation/Use
Fruit (Morus spp.)	Anthocyanins, Resveratrol, Fiber, Vitamin C	Cholesterol reduction, antioxidant protection, improved blood flow, general wellness	Fresh, dried, jams, juices, teas, wines
Leaves (Morus alba)	1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), Flavonoids, Polysaccharides	Blood sugar control, improved insulin sensitivity, anti-inflammatory, heart health, liver protection	Herbal teas, supplements, culinary use after cooking
Root Bark (Morus alba)	Flavonoids (Kuwanon C, Kuwanon G), Morusin	Anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer potential (in vitro), antimicrobial, antihypertensive, diuretic	Herbal medicine, extracts for specific remedies

Conclusion: A Traditional Remedy with Modern Potential

From ancient herbal remedies to modern nutraceuticals, the medicinal value of mulberry has been recognized for its potent effects on various aspects of human health. The fruit, leaves, and bark of the mulberry tree contain powerful bioactive compounds, primarily antioxidants like anthocyanins and flavonoids, and the unique anti-diabetic alkaloid DNJ. These components contribute to a range of potential health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health through cholesterol reduction and blood pressure regulation, better blood sugar control, significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection, and specific benefits for liver and skin health. While much of the research has been conducted in laboratory and animal settings, the findings provide a strong foundation for the continued study of mulberry as a natural and accessible dietary and therapeutic resource. As with any herbal remedy, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider before using mulberry to treat specific health conditions, especially when taking other medications. For more detailed clinical trial information on mulberry leaves and their effects on metabolic risk, see this study on PubMed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, diabetic patients can consume mulberries, particularly the fruit in moderation due to its low glycemic index. Mulberry leaves, in supplement or tea form, may also be beneficial for controlling blood sugar spikes after meals due to the compound DNJ, but it is important to monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult a healthcare provider.

All parts of the mulberry plant have medicinal value. The leaves are most noted for anti-diabetic properties (DNJ), the fruit for its high antioxidant content, and the root bark for its potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential, though more human research is needed for the latter.

Mulberry extract is generally considered safe for topical application and is noted for its skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. It inhibits tyrosinase to reduce dark spots and is a gentler alternative to harsher brightening agents. However, sensitive skin should be tested for reactions.

Excessive consumption, particularly of leaves, can cause side effects. For example, mulberry leaves can lower blood sugar, which could be problematic if taken with diabetes medication. Some people may also experience gastrointestinal discomfort like nausea or diarrhea.

Mulberries may aid in weight management due to their fiber content, which promotes fullness and reduces overall calorie intake. Some animal studies have also reported that leaf extract may enhance fat burning.

You can consume mulberry fruit fresh or dried, add it to smoothies, or use it in jams. Mulberry leaves can be prepared as an herbal tea or taken in supplement form. Various extracts from different parts of the plant are also available.

The antioxidants in mulberry, such as anthocyanins, are known to protect cells from oxidative stress, a key factor in cancer development. In vitro and animal studies have shown anti-cancer activity in mulberry extracts, but human research is still limited in this area.