Black Mulberry Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Black Mulberry Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Black mulberry, often confused with white mulberry, is generally safe when consumed in food amounts. The fruit is commonly used in foods. However, caution should be exercised when using black mulberry leaf in medicinal amounts, especially during pregnancy and lactation.

How Does Black Mulberry Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

Black mulberry's beneficial effects stem from its various components found in different parts of the plant. The ripe berry, twigs, and root bark are key sources. The fruit contains compounds like vitamin C, rutin, and pectin. It also holds alkaloids and phenolic compounds. The root bark is rich in flavonoids like morusin and quercetin, while the twigs contain various flavonoid constituents.

Regarding its effects:

• Antidiabetic effects: Some compounds extracted from black mulberry twigs activate PPAR-gamma, a receptor involved in glucose metabolism regulation. These compounds inhibit enzymes that break down carbohydrates in the gut, reducing carbohydrate absorption.
• Antioxidant effects: Black mulberry fruit's polyphenols exhibit strong antioxidant properties, even outperforming vitamin C in scavenging free radicals.
• Laxative effects: The pectin present in black mulberry fruit may offer mild laxative benefits.

Pharmacokinetics

There's limited information available about how black mulberry is processed within the body (pharmacokinetics).

Interaction Overview

When considering drug interactions, it's important to note that black mulberry might interact with antidiabetes drugs, potentially increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. There's also a theoretical interaction with midazolam, a medication used for sedation. In terms of supplements, black mulberry leaf could potentially have hypoglycemic effects.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Generally, black mulberry is well-tolerated when taken orally. Some individuals may experience contact dermatitis when using black mulberry products topically.

Are Supplements Standardized?

While black mulberry molasses has been prepared through a specific process involving boiling the fruit and water in a 1:1 ratio, standardization of supplements is not widely established.

What Is Black Mulberry Typically Used For?

Black mulberry has been explored for its potential benefits in various areas, but more research is needed to firmly establish its effectiveness. Some potential uses include:

• Diabetes management: There's uncertainty about the effectiveness of oral black mulberry leaf extract in managing diabetes.
• Menopausal symptoms: The impact of oral black mulberry leaf on menopausal symptoms is not yet clear.
• Oral mucositis: Limited studies suggest that using black mulberry molasses or syrup for rinsing may help alleviate symptoms and promote healing of oral mucositis.

Drugs that interact with Black Mulberry