Phytochemistry, bioactivities and future prospects of mulberry leaves: A review

Mulberry leaves (MLs) have been used traditionally to raise silkworms and as herbs and herbal drinks. In vitro and in vivo studies as well as some clinical trials provide some evidence of health benefits, mostly for ML extracts. ML extracts showed antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anticholesterol (affecting lipid metabolism), antiobesity, antiinflammatory, anticancer activities, and so on. These might be linked to strong antioxidant activities, inhibition of alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase, reduction of foam cell formation, inhibition of fat formation, decrease of NF kappa B activity, and the promotion or induction of apoptosis. Phenolic constituents, especially flavonoids, phenolic acids and alkaloids, are likely to contribute to the reported effects. The phytochemistry and pharmacology of MLs confer the traditional and current uses as medicine, food, fodder, and cosmetics. This paper reviews the economic value, chemical composition and pharmacology of MLs to provide a reference for the development and utilization of MLs.

Automated summary

Mulberry leaves extracts have shown various health benefits such as antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anticholesterol activities. These effects may be attributed to their strong antioxidant properties, inhibition of enzymes, and diverse chemical constituents.