Usage
- Mulberry extract, derived from the leaves of the Morus alba (white mulberry) tree, is primarily used for its potential antidiabetic properties, aiding in the management of type 2 diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar levels. It’s also explored for its potential benefits in managing cholesterol and weight, and for its antioxidant properties.
- Pharmacological Classification: Hypoglycemic agent, antioxidant.
- Mechanism of Action: Mulberry extract inhibits alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates into glucose in the small intestine. This action slows down glucose absorption, preventing postprandial hyperglycemia (a spike in blood sugar levels after meals).
Alternate Names
- White Mulberry Leaf Extract
- Morus alba Leaf Extract
- Sang-Ye
- Sohakuhi
- Brand names vary depending on the manufacturer.
How It Works
- Pharmacodynamics: Mulberry extract primarily exerts its effect by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, reducing postprandial glucose absorption. It also exhibits antioxidant activity.
- Pharmacokinetics: While precise pharmacokinetic data is limited, studies suggest that mulberry leaf extract’s active components, including 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The metabolic fate and elimination pathways are not fully elucidated.
- Mode of Action: DNJ is a potent inhibitor of alpha-glucosidase. It competitively binds to the enzyme’s active site, preventing the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into absorbable glucose.
- Elimination Pathways: Not fully elucidated.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
- 0.8-1 gram of white mulberry leaf powder or extract three times daily, taken before meals, has been used in studies.
- 250-750 mg of mulberry leaf extract once or twice daily is a common dosage recommendation for supplements.
Children:
- Not enough information is available to establish a standard dosage for children. Use with caution.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients, Patients with Renal/Hepatic Impairment, Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Due to limited research, specific dosage recommendations for these populations are not available. Exercise caution and adjust dose based on individual response and tolerance. Consult a healthcare professional.
Clinical Use Cases
- The current evidence primarily supports the use of mulberry extract as an oral supplement for managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. Dosage in other clinical settings is not established.
Dosage Adjustments
- Dosage modifications should be based on individual patient response, blood glucose control, and potential drug interactions. Consult with a healthcare professional.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Gas
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia (when taken with diabetes medications)
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Long-Term Effects
- Limited data is available on the long-term effects of mulberry extract use.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
- Severe hypoglycemia
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to mulberry or any of its components.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (due to lack of safety data).
- Children and adolescents (limited safety and efficacy data).
Drug Interactions
- Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs): May increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Close blood glucose monitoring is crucial.
- Medications moved by pumps in cells (Organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) substrates): May affect the pharmacokinetics of these drugs.
- Cholesterol-lowering medications: May have additive effects and increase side effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy Safety Category: Not established. Avoid use due to limited safety data.
- Breastfeeding: Avoid use due to limited information on excretion in breast milk.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, antioxidant.
- Side Effects: Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, gas, hypoglycemia (with diabetes medications).
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, pregnancy, breastfeeding.
- Drug Interactions: Diabetes medications, OCT2 substrates, cholesterol-lowering medications.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid.
- Dosage: 0.8-1g three times daily (adults, before meals) or as directed by a healthcare professional.
- Monitoring Parameters: Blood glucose levels.
Popular Combinations
- None specifically established for mulberry extract.
Precautions
- Monitor blood glucose closely, especially in patients taking diabetes medications.
- Screen for allergies to mulberry or related plants.
- Avoid use in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
A: For adults, 0.8-1 gram of white mulberry leaf powder or extract three times daily, taken before meals, has been used in studies. For supplements, 250-750mg once or twice daily is commonly recommended. However, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
A: It inhibits alpha-glucosidase, slowing down carbohydrate digestion and absorption, which helps prevent post-meal blood sugar spikes.
A: It can be used with caution, but close blood glucose monitoring is essential due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia. Consult a doctor before combining with other antidiabetic drugs.
A: Yes. It can interact with diabetes medications, medications transported by OCT2 pumps, and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
A: It’s not recommended due to limited safety data in these populations.
A: Common side effects are mainly gastrointestinal, including bloating, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, and gas. Hypoglycemia can occur, particularly when taken with diabetes medications.
A: Individuals with hypersensitivity to mulberry, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and children/adolescents should avoid using it. People with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before using it.
A: No, it’s generally considered a complementary therapy and should not replace conventional diabetes treatment without consulting a healthcare provider.
A: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
