Mulberry Fruit Extract

Mulberry fruit extract is derived from the fruit of Morus alba, known as mulberry, white mulberry, and silkworm mulberry. The extract is associated with potential benefits for glycemic control, although research on its effects is limited. White mulberry leaves are utilized as the primary feed for silkworms and serve as supplementary food for livestock in regions with limited ground vegetation during dry seasons. In Korea, the leaves are prepared as tea, and the fruit is consumed either dried or in the form of wine. Laboratory tests on rats have not shown significant toxicity associated with mulberry extract. However, a tragic incident involving Lori McClintock, the wife of US politician Tom McClintock, raised concerns when her death in December 2021 was attributed to dehydration caused by gastroenteritis linked to the "adverse effects of white mulberry leaf ingestion." White mulberry leaf is commonly used as a dietary supplement or herbal remedy for weight loss and diabetes. Caution is warranted, and further investigation into potential side effects is essential.