Morus rubra(Moraceae) Red Mulberry

Morus rubra (Red Mulberry)

Photos courtesy: Music Forest

1. Scientific name and Basic Taxonomic classification

Species: Morus rubra

Family: Moraceae

Genus: Morus

Related Herbs from the same family:

Ficus religiosa (Sacred Fig/Ashvattha): One of the most sacred trees in India, revered in Ayurveda for its spiritual significance and medicinal properties. Its bark, leaves, fruits, and roots are used for conditions ranging from skin diseases and diabetes to nervous disorders.

Ficus benghalensis (Banyan/Nyagrodha): A vast, sacred tree whose aerial roots, bark, and leaves are used in Ayurveda. It is a premier cooling and astringent herb, used for treating diabetes, diarrhea, and skin conditions, and is considered a Vata-pacifying Rasayana.

Ficus racemosa (Cluster Fig/Gular/Udumbara): The fruit, bark, and latex of this tree are used in Ayurveda for managing diabetes, leucorrhea, menorrhagia, and various inflammatory conditions.

Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jackfruit/Panasa): A large fruit tree whose fruit, seeds, and wood are used. The fruit is considered nutritive and laxative, while the root is used for treating skin diseases and asthma.

The Moraceae family, known as the mulberry or fig family, is characterized by plants that often contain a milky latex and have compound fruits. Many members are significant for their fruit, medicinal properties, and cultural importance, with a strong presence in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, particularly the Ficus genus.

2. Common names

Scientific Name: Morus rubra | English: Red Mulberry, American Mulberry | Sanskrit: (Note: Not classically described in Ayurveda. Often referenced by the general term for mulberry, "Tooda" or "Brahmaparna") | Hindi: Lal Shehtoot, American Toot | Tamil: Sivappu Mulberry | Telugu: Erra Mulberry | Kannada: Kempu Mulberry | Malayalam: Chuvanna Mulberry | Marathi: Lal Tut | Bengali: Lal Tunt | Urdu: Laal Toot |

3. Medicinal Uses:Antioxidant, Hypoglycemic (Anti-diabetic), Anti-inflammatory, Diuretic, Laxative (mild), Hepatoprotective, Neuroprotective, Hypotensive.

Medicinal Parts:The fruit, leaves, and bark are used for medicinal purposes.

4. Phytochemicals specific to the plant and their action.

Anthocyanins (Cyanidin, Rutin): Pigments responsible for the red/purple color of the fruit. Their actions are potent Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and they contribute to Vision health and Cardioprotective effects.

Flavonoids (Quercetin, Kaempferol): Widespread plant antioxidants. Their primary actions are Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Antiviral.

Alkaloids (1-Deoxynojirimycin - DNJ): A specific alkaloid found in mulberry leaves. Its primary action is potent Hypoglycemic; it inhibits the enzyme alpha-glucosidase in the gut, slowing the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into sugars and thus reducing post-meal blood glucose spikes.

Resveratrol: A well-known polyphenol, particularly studied in grapes, also present in mulberries. Its actions are Antioxidant, Cardioprotective, and Neuroprotective.

Phenolic Acids (Chlorogenic Acid): Their actions are Antioxidant, Hypoglycemic (inhibits glucose-6-phosphatase), and Hepatoprotective.

Soluble and Insoluble Fiber: Present in the fruit and leaves. Their actions are Hypoglycemic (slows sugar absorption), Hypolipidemic, and Laxative.

5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical uses covering the Medicinal uses.

Prameha (Diabetes) & Medoroga (Obesity, High Cholesterol)

Formulation: Mulberry leaf tea or decoction.

Preparation & Use: A tea is made by steeping dried mulberry leaves in hot water. This tea is consumed daily, typically before or with meals, to help control blood sugar levels.

Reasoning: The presence of 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) and soluble fiber in the leaves works to inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and slow sugar absorption, making it a powerful natural aid for diabetes management.

Raktapitta (Bleeding Disorders) & Daha (Burning Sensation)

Formulation: Fresh mulberry fruit or juice.

Preparation & Use: Consuming fresh, ripe mulberry fruit or its juice is traditional in many cultures to cool the body, purify the blood, and provide relief from internal heat and burning sensations.

Reasoning: Its Sheeta (cooling) potency and high antioxidant content help pacify Pitta and Rakta (blood), reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Vibandha (Constipation) & Mutrakrichra (Dysuria)

Formulation: Fresh mulberry fruit.

Preparation & Use: Eating a handful of ripe mulberries acts as a mild laxative due to their fiber content and also as a diuretic, supporting both bowel and kidney function.

Reasoning: The fiber adds bulk to the stool, while the fruit's high water and potassium content support urine production.

Kasa (Cough) & Swasa (Asthma)

Formulation: Mulberry bark or root bark decoction.

Preparation & Use: A decoction made from the bark is used in traditional systems to relieve cough and asthma symptoms due to its demulcent and anti-inflammatory properties.

Reasoning: It helps soothe the respiratory tract mucosa and reduce irritation.

6. Healing recipes, Teas, Decoctions and Culinary use (if any):

Mulberries are consumed fresh, dried, or as jams, syrups, and wines. The leaves are primarily used for tea.

Mulberry Leaf Tea for Blood Sugar Support

Purpose: To help regulate blood glucose levels.

Preparation & Use:

• Take 1-2 teaspoons of dried mulberry leaves.

• Steep in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.

• Strain and drink 1-2 times a day, preferably before a carbohydrate-rich meal.

Strength-Building Mulberry Fruit Jam

Purpose: A nutritive tonic for weakness, convalescence, or as a general rejuvenative.

Preparation & Use:

• Simmer fresh mulberries with a small amount of water and jaggery or honey until it thickens into a jam.

• Consume a spoonful daily or spread on toast.

Antioxidant Mulberry Smoothie

Purpose: A general health tonic and refreshing drink.

Preparation & Use:

• Blend a handful of fresh or frozen mulberries with yogurt or plant-based milk and a banana.

• Drink as a healthy breakfast or snack.

Mulberry Bark Decoction for Oral Health

Purpose: Used as a gargle for sore throat and mouth ulcers.

Preparation & Use:

• Boil a piece of mulberry bark in water for 10-15 minutes.

• Strain, allow to cool, and use as a mouthwash or gargle.

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7.In-Depth Phytochemical Profile and Clinical Significance of Morus rubra (Red Mulberry)

Morus rubra, the native North American red mulberry, is a pharmacologically rich tree where the fruit, leaves, and root bark have been used in traditional medicine systems. Each part possesses a distinct phytochemical signature, leading to diverse therapeutic applications. The fruit is celebrated for its high anthocyanin content and antioxidant potency, the leaves are a reservoir of unique polyphenols with significant metabolic influence, and the root bark contains prenylated flavonoids with potent traditional uses.

1. Anthocyanins and Other Fruit Pigments

Key Compounds:

• Cyanidin-type Anthocyanins: Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), Cyanidin-3-rutinoside.

• Other Flavonoids: Quercetin, Rutin.

• Acids: Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), Malic acid, Citric acid.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:The vibrant color of the fruit is a direct indicator of its potent bioactive profile.

• Potent Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Cyanidin-3-glucoside is one of the most powerful dietary antioxidants. It effectively scavenges free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, and downregulates pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-κB, helping to protect against chronic diseases.

• Cardioprotective: These compounds improve cardiovascular health by enhancing endothelial function, reducing arterial stiffness, and protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation.

• Neuroprotective: Anthocyanins cross the blood-brain barrier, where their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions may protect neurons, potentially slowing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

2. Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids (Prominent in Leaves)

Key Compounds:

• Prenylated Flavonoids (Leaf & Root Bark): Kuwanon G, H, C; Albanol B.

• Flavonols: Quercetin-3-glucoside, Rutin, Isoquercitrin.

• Phenolic Acids: Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid, Protocatechuic acid.

• Moracins (Leaf-specific): Moracin A, B, C, etc. (Benzofuran derivatives unique to Moraceae).

Actions and Clinical Relevance:This group is primarily responsible for the leaves' acclaimed anti-diabetic properties.

• Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition (Leaves): Compounds like Kuwanon G and 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ, found in related species and often present in M. rubra) are potent inhibitors of the alpha-glucosidase enzyme in the small intestine. This slows the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars, blunting the postprandial blood glucose spike—a cornerstone of diabetes management.

• Antioxidant Synergy: The diverse array of flavonoids and phenolic acids in the leaves creates a powerful antioxidant network, protecting pancreatic β-cells from glucose toxicity and oxidative damage.

• Antimicrobial & Antiviral (Prenylated Flavonoids): Kuwanons and other prenylated compounds from the root bark and leaves demonstrate strong activity against various bacteria, fungi, and viruses, underpinning their traditional use for infections.

3. Alkaloids and Unique Nitrogenous Compounds

Key Compounds:

• 1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ): A potent iminosugar, most famous from Morus alba but also present in significant quantities in M. rubra.

• Fagomine: Another iminosugar with glucose-regulating properties.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:These compounds are critical for the plant's metabolic effects.

• Anti-Diabetic (Leaves): DNJ is a specific, competitive inhibitor of intestinal alpha-glucosidase. Its presence makes mulberry leaf extract a highly effective functional food for managing Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

• Glycemic Control: By delaying carbohydrate absorption, DNJ and fagomine help maintain stable blood glucose levels, reduce HbA1c, and decrease insulin resistance.

4. Other Critical Compounds

Key Compounds:

• Fatty Acids (Seeds): Linoleic acid (Omega-6), Oleic acid (Omega-9).

• Amino Acids & Proteins (Leaves): High-quality protein source, with the essential amino acid profile contributing to its nutritive value.

• Minerals (Leaves & Fruit): Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

• The fixed oil from seeds contributes to the fruit's nutritional profile and may have emollient properties.

• The high mineral content, particularly in the leaves, makes it a nutritive tonic, supporting bone health and electrolyte balance.

• The leaves' protein and fiber content contribute to a feeling of satiety, which can aid in weight management.

An Integrated View of Healing in Morus rubra

The therapeutic power of Red Mulberry lies in the synergy of its compounds across different plant parts:

• For Metabolic Syndrome & Diabetes (Leaves): The synergy of 1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) as a carbohydrate blocker, Chlorogenic acid to reduce hepatic glucose output, and a rich flavonoid profile to combat underlying inflammation and oxidative stress makes the leaf a comprehensive, multi-targeted herbal for glycemic control and improving insulin sensitivity.

• For Antioxidant Protection & Chronic Disease Prevention (Fruit): The high concentration of Anthocyanins, particularly Cyanidin-3-glucoside, provides systemic protection against oxidative damage. This makes the fruit a powerful functional food for supporting cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall longevity.

• As a Dual-Purpose Functional Food & Medicine: The fruit can be consumed fresh, dried, or as juice for direct antioxidant and nutritive benefit. The leaves, consumed as a tea or standardized extract, offer a potent, non-pharmaceutical approach to blood sugar management. The root bark, used more cautiously in traditional practice, provides a source of powerful antimicrobial prenylated flavonoids.

Disclaimer:

Morus rubra fruit is generally very safe when consumed in food amounts. The leaves are also considered safe when used as a tea. Due to its potent hypoglycemic effects, individuals with diabetes on medication should monitor their blood sugar levels closely to avoid hypoglycemia. Mulberry may slow blood clotting; therefore, individuals with bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgery should use it with caution. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

• Indian Materia Medica by Dr. K.M. Nadkarni (for references to Morus alba/Tooda)

• The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants by Andrew Chevallier

• Edible Medicinal and Non-Medicinal Plants by T.K. Lim

9. Further study: Plants that might interest you due to similar medicinal properties

1. Morus alba (White Mulberry)* Species: Morus alba | Family: Moraceae | Genus: Morus* Similarities: This is the Asian species of mulberry, more commonly referenced in traditional Chinese medicine and increasingly in global health markets. It shares an almost identical phytochemical profile, especially the presence of 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) in the leaves, making it equally effective for blood sugar management. The fruits are also highly antioxidant.

2. Syzygium cumini (Java Plum/Jamun)* Species: Syzygium cumini | Family: Myrtaceae | Genus: Syzygium* Similarities: Both are dark-purple fruits with potent hypoglycemic properties. Jamun seeds, fruit, and bark are cornerstone Ayurvedic remedies for Prameha (diabetes). They share high anthocyanin content and a significant role in managing blood sugar levels through similar mechanisms, including alpha-glucosidase inhibition.

3. Vaccinium myrtillus (Bilberry)* Species: Vaccinium myrtillus | Family: Ericaceae | Genus: Vaccinium* Similarities: Both are dark-colored berries exceptionally rich in anthocyanins. They are renowned for their powerful antioxidant effects, particularly for supporting vision health, improving capillary integrity, and providing anti-inflammatory benefits. They are often used interchangeably in natural medicine for eye and cardiovascular health.

4. Gymnema sylvestre (Gurmar)* Species: Gymnema sylvestre | Family: Apocynaceae | Genus: Gymnema* Similarities: Both are premier anti-diabetic plants. While Gymnema works by blocking sugar receptors on the tongue and potentially regenerating pancreatic beta-cells, mulberry leaf works by inhibiting carbohydrate absorption in the gut. They are a powerful combination for comprehensive blood sugar support, attacking the problem from different angles.

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