White mulberry leaf has gained attention in recent years as a potential aid for weight loss and diabetes management. However some serious concerns have been raised about the safety of mulberry leaf for weight loss and effectiveness of this herbal remedy.
There have been several cases where white mulberry leaf has been implicated in medical complications, and there was one case reported globally where white mulberry leaf could be partially implicated in of the death of a congressmans wife who was consuming mulberry leaf. It should be noted, that it is considered to be safe in general, but the issue is that it has a potent diaretic effect which could lead to dehydration.
We should note however, that there are much better supplements for weight loss, ones that have been much more well studied and don't have such a dark shadow hanging over them.
What is White Mulberry Leaf?
White mulberry leaf is derived from the leaves of the white mulberry tree, scientifically known as Morus alba. The leaves of the white mulberry tree contain various compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols, which do in fact have potential health benefits.
Scientific Research on White Mulberry Leaf
Some scientific studies have investigated the effects of white mulberry leaf on weight loss and glucose regulation. A few of these studies have shown promising results, while others have yielded negative or inconclusive findings, meaning overall the results are somewhat mixed. And on top of that it's important to note that most of the research has been conducted on animals or in test tubes, and more studies are needed to determine whether or not white mulberry leaf does anything at all in humans when it comes to weight loss.
Potential Benefits of White Mulberry Leaf
Blood Glucose Regulation - Some studies have suggested that white mulberry leaf extract may help regulate blood glucose levels. Research has shown that mulberry leaf extract may inhibit enzymes responsible for carbohydrate digestion, leading to slower absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This effect could potentially help prevent blood sugar spikes and improve insulin sensitivity. [1]
Weight Loss - There is limited evidence to suggest that white mulberry leaf may aid in weight loss. Animal studies have shown that mulberry leaf extract can reduce body weight gain and fat accumulation. These effects may be attributed to the inhibition of certain enzymes involved in fat metabolism and the suppression of appetite. Although as mentioned earlier mulberry does make you pee more, meaning that you'd lose water weight. This often makes people think they've lost fat, when in fact they actually have just lost some water weight. [2,3]
Safety Considerations with Mulberry Leaf - While white mulberry leaf is generally considered safe, it's important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplement. Some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as stomach cramps or digestive discomfort, especially when consuming high doses of white mulberry leaf. It's essential to follow recommended dosages and guidelines to minimize the risk of adverse effects. [4]
How to Incorporate White Mulberry Leaf
If you are interested in incorporating white mulberry leaf into your weight loss regimen, there are several options available. White mulberry leaf supplements can be found in the form of capsules or powders, which can be taken orally. It's crucial to choose a reputable brand and follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer. Although, we'd generally recommend you try something else.
Another way to consume white mulberry leaf is by brewing it into a tea. This traditional practice has been used for centuries and may offer a natural and enjoyable way to incorporate white mulberry leaf into your daily routine. There is an extra benefit to this method in that you are at least replacing some of the lost liquid.
References
1 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8047566/
2 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9521161/
3 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8241616/
4 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6130672/
