White mulberry (Morus alba) is a leafy tree native to Asia but now found worldwide.
However, more research is needed to prove these effects.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
But there are several studies assessing white mulberry for the following potential uses.
So, there is a buildup of sugar in your body.
While these clinical trials are promising, large, well-designed studies are still necessary.
Also, it’s essential to focus on eating a balanced diet and getting exercise to improveinsulin sensitivity.
Significant side effects can occur when taking blood sugarlowering herbs or supplements with diabetes medications.
Although the findings were positive, they were limited by a few factors.
One animal study found mulberry leaf extract lowered triglyceride levels.
It decreased weight gain in mice with obesity from a high-fat diet.
This animal study suggests that mulberry may aid in treatingobesityandmetabolic syndrome.
These medical conditions may includehigh blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal blood cholesterol, and excess weight.
Like the studies for high blood sugar, these cholesterol-related studies are also somewhat promising.
But large and well-designed human studies are still needed to confirm these results.
And over time, high cholesterol is usually connected to an inflammatory medical condition calledatherosclerosis.
Large and well-designed studies are still needed to confirm this plant’s effects on oxidative stress and inflammation.
What Are the Side Effects of White Mulberry?
As with all medications and supplements, side effects are possible with white mulberry.
Severe allergic reactionis another serious side effect possible with any medication.
Symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash.
If you want to try white mulberry, talk with your healthcare provider first.
And follow their suggestions or the label instructions.
What Happens If I Take Too Much White Mulberry?
A case report revealed that white mulberry can cause severe dehydration from gastroenteritis.
And in this case report, severe dehydration did result in death.
How to Store White Mulberry
Storage instructions may vary for different products.
Carefully read the directions and packaging label on the container.
attempt to store your medications in a cool and dry place.
Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging.
Avoid pouring unused and expired medicines down the drain or in the toilet.
Visit theFDA’s websiteto learn where and how to discard all unused and expired medicines.
Similar Supplements
Severalother herbs and supplements may impact blood sugaror cholesterol levels.
Be sure to discuss the use of any of these with your healthcare provider to prevent unintended additive effects.
Several U.S. manufacturers make white mulberry products.
The white mulberry wood may be toxic.
They can also ensure that youre giving white mulberry a good trial at appropriate doses.
Sources of White Mulberry & What to Look For
Several sources of white mulberry exist.
You may also turn the fruit into fruit juice.And the leaves can be brewed into tea.
Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form.
So, it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label directions.
Summary
White mulberry is a leafy tree that produces fruit.
This plant may have some potential to lower blood sugar and cholesterol.
It may also have some antioxidant and anti-inflammation effects.
While white mulberry is generally recognized as safe, it’s not without side effects.
There are also potential interactions to consider.
And white mulberry wood can be toxic.
More research with larger and better-designed clinical trials is still needed to study white mulberry’s effectiveness and safety.
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