Mulberry (morinda)
Synopsis of mulberry
Mulberry refers to the trees and shrubs of the Morus genus, especially Morus alba (white mulberry), Morus nigra (black mulberry), and Morus rubra (red mulberry). These deciduous trees are native to Asia, Europe, and North America depending on the species and are valued for their edible berries, medicinal leaves, and fast-growing wood. The fruit is sweet and rich in vitamin C, anthocyanins, resveratrol, rutin, and other polyphenols, while the leaves contain bioactive compounds such as 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a natural alpha-glucosidase inhibitor known for its blood sugar-lowering properties.
In modern herbal medicine, mulberry is used for supporting metabolic health, regulating blood glucose, improving cardiovascular function, reducing oxidative stress, and enhancing liver detoxification. The berries are consumed fresh, dried, or in extract form for antioxidant and immune support. The leaves are widely used as teas or supplements to help manage diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension. The plant also has mild antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it suitable for broader wellness applications.
Historical Use:
Mulberry has been an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years. The leaves (Sang Ye) are used to clear lung heat, alleviate coughs, cool the blood, and improve vision. They are also employed to lower fevers and blood pressure, and to treat cold symptoms and eye inflammation. The fruit (Sang Shen) is considered a tonic that nourishes the yin and blood, and is used to treat dizziness, insomnia, premature graying of hair, and constipation. The root bark (Sang Bai Pi) is used to reduce edema, clear lung heat, and calm wheezing.
In Ayurvedic medicine, mulberries are less commonly featured but are used as cooling, nourishing fruits to support liver function and boost vitality. The plant's antioxidant properties make it beneficial for pitta-related imbalances, such as skin inflammation, heat intolerance, and excessive thirst.
In European herbalism, particularly with Morus nigra (black mulberry), the fruit was traditionally used as a gentle laxative, anti-inflammatory, and throat remedy. Syrups made from the berries were prescribed for tonsillitis, sore throats, and mouth ulcers, while mulberry wine was consumed as a tonic for blood and vitality. The leaves and bark were occasionally used as poultices for skin infections or decoctions for digestive problems.
In North American Indigenous traditions, Morus rubra (red mulberry) was used by several tribes as a food source and medicine, with applications ranging from fever and dysentery remedies to topical wound care using bark infusions.
Today, mulberry remains a staple in functional foods, teas, and integrative health supplements, particularly for its role in supporting glucose metabolism, cardiovascular wellness, and cellular protection. Its long history across continents reflects its wide-ranging utility as both a nutritive and therapeutic plant.
Mulberry is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anemia (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Nephritis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Psoriasis (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
mulberry is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Pancreas Head (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
