What to Know About Mulberry Leaf Extract

Mulberry leaf extract powder shows promise in various areas. It is known for its health benefits and has been used in traditional medicine for many years. Mulberry leaves contain a higher content of DNJ than other plants, which is a functional component of mulberry leaves with hypoglycemic effect.

What Is DNJ?

DNJ, a polyhydroxyl alkaloid, was first found in mulberry trees by a scientist in Japan in 1976.

DNJ, as a good inhibitor of glucose metabolizing enzymes, can well inhibit the activity of disaccharide, thus inhibiting the absorption of disaccharides in the small intestine.

Mulberry polyphenols and mulberry leaf polysaccharide can promote ß cells to secrete insulin, and insulin can promote the utilization of sugar by cells, liver glycogen synthesis and improve sugar metabolism, and finally reduce the peak postprandial blood glucose and stabilize the fasting blood glucose level.

What Is White Mulberry Leaf Extract Good For?

Blood sugar control:

White mulberry leaf extract has long been used to help control blood sugar levels. It contains chemicals including 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), which may block specific enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, thus reducing sugar absorption from the digestive system.

Anti-inflammatory effects:

Flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are contained in white mulberry leaf extract, have anti-inflammatory activities. This could be useful in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Antioxidant activity:

White mulberry leaf extract includes antioxidants that can help protect cells from free radical damage. Antioxidants help to reduce oxidative stress, which has been linked to a variety of chronic diseases.

Lose weight:

Some studies suggest that white mulberry leaf extract may have anti-obesity effects. It may help inhibit the breakdown and absorption of dietary carbohydrates, potentially reducing the calorie intake from these sources.

Cholesterol management:

Animal studies have revealed that white mulberry leaf extract has cholesterol-lowering effects. It may help lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol ("bad"), and triglyceride levels while boosting HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol).

A Proven Natural Remedy For Skin Lightening

If you are interested in the skin-whitening effects of mulberry leaf extract, perhaps this blog can help you.

White mulberry leaf extract has been studied for its possible skin-brightening and anti-aging properties in topical applications. The extract may aid in the inhibition of melanin formation, which may be beneficial in reducing the appearance of dark patches or hyperpigmentation.

Mulberry leaf extract has been utilized in some skincare products because it is thought to offer skin-brightening qualities. Compounds in the extract such as arbutin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids are likely to contribute to its possible skin-lightening effects.

Arbutin, one of the active ingredients in mulberry leaf extract, has been examined for its possible melanin-inhibitory effects. Melanin is the pigment that gives our skin its color, and an excess of melanin can cause hyperpigmentation or dark spots. Arbutin is thought to inhibit the action of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the formation of melanin. It may help reduce melanin production and potentially lighten the skin by blocking this enzyme.

However, the efficacy of mulberry leaf extract for skin lightening varies between individuals, and the results may not be as pronounced or as quick as with other techniques.Furthermore, the extract's concentration and formulation, as well as individual skin features, can all have an impact on its benefits.

Is mulberry good for diabetes?

Mulberry, specifically the leaves of the white mulberry tree (Morus alba), has been traditionally used for managing blood sugar levels. Research suggests that mulberry leaves may have certain properties that could benefit individuals with diabetes. Here's what the current scientific literature indicates:

Mulberry leaf extract can lower blood sugar levels because it contains iminosugar alkaloids that reduce blood sugar absorption.

The most abundant iminosugar alkaloid in mulberry leaf extract is 1-deoxynojiri mycin (DNJ). These alkaloids block the active sites of polysaccharides degrading enzymes in the digestive tract, thereby reducing the absorption of carbohydrates by the digestive tract.

Blood sugar control:

Mulberry leaves, particularly their extracts, have been shown to contain compounds that can inhibit certain enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. This may help slow down the absorption of sugars from the digestive system, potentially leading to better blood sugar control.

Insulin sensitivity:

Some studies have suggested that mulberry leaf extracts may improve insulin sensitivity in both animal and human studies. Improved insulin sensitivity allows the body to utilize insulin more effectively, aiding in the regulation of blood sugar levels.

Glucose metabolism:

Mulberry leaf extracts have been found to influence glucose metabolism in animal models, potentially enhancing glucose uptake and utilization by the cells.

Anti-inflammatory effects:

Chronic inflammation is often associated with diabetes and its complications. Mulberry extract contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which may be beneficial in managing inflammation related to diabetes.

In summary, while mulberry leaf extract shows promise for controlling blood sugar, it is important to note that it is not used to treat disease, and the relevant research is still limited, and further research is needed to determine its effectiveness.