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White Mulberry (Morus alba)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Moraceae
  • Common Names: White Mulberry, Sang Ye (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
  • Parts Used: Leaves, fruit, bark, root

Description

Morus alba, commonly known as white mulberry, is a deciduous tree native to China and widely cultivated worldwide. Traditionally used in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Western herbal medicine, white mulberry is valued for its blood sugar-regulating, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory-supporting properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Sang Ye to clear heat and support lung health.
  • Traditionally employed for regulating blood sugar and improving digestion.
  • Used as a tonic for immune function and cardiovascular health.
  • Applied externally for wound healing and skin conditions.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids (including morin)
  • Alkaloids (1-deoxynojirimycin, DNJ)
  • Polysaccharides
  • Resveratrol
  • Tannins
  • Vitamins A, C, and E

Actions

  • Hypoglycemic
  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Expectorant
  • Hepatoprotective
  • Neuroprotective

Medicinal Uses

1. Blood Sugar Regulation:
White mulberry leaves contain DNJ, which helps regulate blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

2. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used in TCM for coughs, sore throats, and lung infections.

3. Liver and Cardiovascular Support:
Supports liver detoxification and helps regulate cholesterol levels.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Support:
Rich in antioxidants, it reduces inflammation and enhances immune function.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally to promote wound healing and treat minor skin irritations.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Capsules/Powder:

  • 500-1000 mg daily as a supplement.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh leaves or root bark applied to wounds and skin irritations.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Low Blood Sugar: May enhance the effects of diabetes medications; monitor glucose levels closely.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible; discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears lung heat, moistens dryness, and tonifies Yin.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.
  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Used as a tonic for metabolic and respiratory health.

Combinations

  • For Blood Sugar Support: Combine with cinnamon and fenugreek.
  • For Respiratory Health: Combine with licorice and mullein.
  • For Liver Detox: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion root.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are collected in spring and summer; fruit is harvested when ripe.
  • Drying: Air dry leaves and fruit in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Morus alba’s hypoglycemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

White Mulberry remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for metabolic health, respiratory support, and immune enhancement.