Evidence supporting the use of: Paper mulberry
For the health condition: Insect Repellant
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) has a traditional history of use for various purposes, including as an insect repellent in some Asian cultures. Ethnobotanical surveys report that leaves, bark, or extracts of paper mulberry have been used in rural and indigenous communities to deter insects—either by burning the plant material or placing fresh leaves in storage areas. However, these uses are rooted in folk practices rather than being substantiated by strong scientific evidence. A limited number of studies have investigated the chemical constituents of paper mulberry, revealing the presence of flavonoids and other phenolic compounds, which theoretically could have bioactivity against insects. Nevertheless, rigorous laboratory or clinical studies specifically demonstrating its efficacy as an insect repellent are lacking. Therefore, while there is a historical and cultural precedent for its use in this context, the evidence is primarily anecdotal and not robustly validated by modern science. More research would be required to confirm its efficacy and safety as an insect repellent.
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