What to know about Morus alba (mulberry) before using it medicinally

Morus alba, commonly known as mulberry, is a herb that has been revered for its numerous health properties, including its ability to reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, and support the immune system.

As a versatile horticultural plant, Morus alba is widely cultivated for its fruit, leaves, and bark, which are all used in various herbal remedies and traditional medicine practices. From a botanical perspective, Morus alba is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Moraceae family, characterized by its distinctive white bark and broad, ovate leaves.

Throughout history, Morus alba has been mentioned in ancient texts, including those from China, where it was used to treat various ailments and was also valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Morus alba.

What are the medicinal properties of Morus alba?

Morus alba helps with various health issues, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and inflammation, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It also exhibits antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal activities. The plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

The medicinal properties of Morus alba are attributed to its active constituents, including flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), phenolic acids (gallic acid), and anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinidin). These compounds contribute to the plant's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities.

The parts of Morus alba most used for medicinal purposes are the bark, leaves, and fruit. The bark contains a higher concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids, making it a valuable source of antioxidants. The leaves and fruit also exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

Improper use of Morus alba may lead to gastrointestinal side effects, including diarrhea and stomach upset, due to the plant's high anthocyanin content. Excessive consumption of the plant may also interact with medications, such as anticoagulants and diabetes medications.

When using Morus alba medicinally, precautions include consuming the plant in moderation and under medical supervision. The plant should not be used by individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult a healthcare professional before using Morus alba.

What are the horticulural aspects of Morus alba?

Morus alba grow best in USDA zones 5-9, requiring full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-8.0. They thrive in temperatures between 35°F and 95°F, but can tolerate short periods of frost.

Proper planting involves selecting a location with adequate air circulation and mulching to retain moisture. Plant mulberry trees in early spring or fall, spacing them 15-20 feet apart to allow for mature growth. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, mixing in compost and organic matter.

Harvest mulberry fruit in mid-to-late summer, when berries are fully ripe and dark in color. Collect fruit gently to avoid bruising, and use for eating fresh or in recipes. Leave some fruit on the tree for birds and other wildlife to enjoy.

Common pests affecting mulberry trees include aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars, while fungal diseases like anthracnose, root rot, and powdery mildew also occur. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation or disease, and implement integrated pest management strategies to minimize damage.

What are the botanical aspects of Morus alba?

Morus alba is a deciduous tree characterized by its broad, ovate-shaped leaves that are 5-10 cm long and have 5-7 lobes, with a single petiole and an entire margin. The leaves are dark green on top and pale underneath, with a waxy texture. The tree has a straight, grey trunk with a diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The bark is smooth and grey. The tree grows up to 20-25 meters tall.

Morus alba belongs to the family Moraceae and is classified as Morus alba in the binomial nomenclature. The genus Morus contains 16 species, with Morus alba being one of the most widely distributed. The species is further divided into 2 subspecies: Morus alba alba and Morus alba pendula. The tree's closest relatives are the white mulberry (Morus alba var. alba) and the silkworm mulberry (Morus alba var. pendula).

Several variants of Morus alba exist, including the Chinese mulberry (Morus alba var. chinensis), the Japanese mulberry (Morus alba var. japonica), and the white mulberry (Morus alba var. alba). These variants are primarily distinguished by differences in leaf shape, size, and color, as well as growth habits and bark characteristics.

Morus alba is native to China and has been naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and along roadsides. It can also be found in urban areas, particularly in parks and gardens.

Morus alba's life cycle begins with seed germination, which occurs in 1-3 months after sowing. The tree grows rapidly, producing leaves and flowers within the first year. The flowers are produced in late spring, followed by the formation of fruit, which ripens in late summer to early fall. The tree can live for up to 100 years, although the average lifespan is around 50-60 years.

What are the historical aspects of Morus alba?

Morus alba is a plant with a rich history of use in various cultures. Its silkworm-fed leaves have been used to produce a valuable silk fiber for thousands of years in ancient civilizations such as China, Japan, and India. In addition, the fruit and wood of the mulberry tree have been used for food, dyes, and construction. The tree's wood is also prized for its durability and resistance to rot.

In ancient Greek mythology, the mulberry tree was associated with the goddess Hera, who was said to have wept tears of mulberry juice when her husband Zeus was unfaithful. The tree's association with feminine and maternal energy is also reflected in its use as a symbol of fertility and abundance in many cultures. In Norse mythology, the god Baldur was said to have been killed by an arrow made from a mulberry branch.

The symbolic meanings of the mulberry tree are numerous and complex. In Chinese culture, the tree is considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune. In Japan, it is associated with the samurai class and is often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of honor and loyalty. In Christianity, the tree's association with the Virgin Mary has led to its use as a symbol of purity and chastity.

Historical texts such as the Chinese Classic of Mountains and Seas, the Japanese Man'yōshū, and the ancient Indian texts of the Mahabharata and the Ramayana all feature the mulberry tree as a significant motif. In the Chinese text, the tree is described as a symbol of immortality, while in the Japanese text, it is praised for its beauty and elegance. In the Indian texts, the tree is associated with the god Krishna and is said to have provided him with shelter and protection.

The historical artifacts associated with the mulberry tree include ancient Chinese silk fabrics, Japanese woodblock prints, and Indian temple carvings. The mulberry tree is also depicted in ancient Chinese tomb paintings and Japanese Edo-period ukiyo-e prints. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the cultural and symbolic significance of the mulberry tree in ancient civilizations.