Mulberry is a tree that is closely related to breadfruit, figs, and banyan. It can be found across Europe, the Middle East, India, and North Africa. The fruit of this tree is long and cylindrical with a sweet and slightly tart flavor. It is usually added in yogurts or smoothies and baked into desserts.
This flowering tree is gaining popularity worldwide due to its impressive nutritional value and various health benefits.
Mulberries are rich in important nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, riboflavin, potassium, phosphorus, and fiber. In addition to this, a wide range of organic compound is also present in it, such as resveratrol, anthocyanins, zeaxanthin, lutein, and various polyphenolic compounds.
In a study published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine, results showed that the chemical composition of mulberry has pharmacological effects on diabetes mellitus.
Diabetes mellitus, also known as diabetes, is a metabolic disease that causes high blood sugar. At present, it is considered a global epidemic. With this disease, our body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t effectively use the insulin it does make. When it comes to dealing with this condition, mulberry can provide some help. This superfood has been used for thousands of years in China to help patients deal with this kind of illness.
Findings of the study conducted by different universities in China revealed that the flavonoids, polyhydroxylated alkaloids, and polysaccharides, which are active components in mulberry, can be a promising remedy for diabetes mellitus. Researchers have found that mulberry has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help enhance insulin production/secretion and improve glucose absorption.
Other Health Benefits of Mulberries
Helps Reduce Cancer Risk
In addition to anthocyanins, polyphenolic and phytonutrient compounds present in mulberries, it also contains antioxidants that help us fight free radicals which damage healthy cells and causes chronic diseases such as cancer.
Helps Build Healthy Bones
Found in mulberries are high amounts of calcium, iron, vitamin K, magnesium, and phosphorus. These important nutrients are needed for bone health in order to prevent conditions like osteoporosis and other age-related bone disorders.
Helps Protect Liver Health
Our liver is an important organ in our body. It plays a significant role in blood clotting, filtering of toxins and breaking down of fats. According to studies, certain compounds present in mulberries can keep our liver strong, healthy, and free from liver diseases such as fatty liver disease.
Helps Improve Vision
Zeaxanthin, a carotenoid found in mulberries, can help reduce oxidative stress on certain ocular cells, including the retinal macula lutea. Additionally, zeaxanthin also acts as antioxidants which help prevent the harmful effects of free radicals such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Helps Treat Anemia
Due to its richness in iron, mulberries can help cure anemia. It can help us deal with symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue.
Helps Boost The Immune System
Alkaloids in mulberries help activate macrophages which are white blood cells that stimulate the immune system, thereby making it actively alert against infections and health threats.
