Unexpected Side Effects of Mulberry: What You Should Know
Enjoying sweet berries can lead to uncommon reactions that deserve cautious attention.
Mulberry fruit and leaf extracts are popular for their distinctive flavor and perceived health benefits, but not all effects are positive. While mulberry is celebrated in traditional medicine and modern nutrition for supporting blood sugar regulation and promoting heart and skin health, emerging reports highlight a range of unexpected side effects and cautions tied to its consumption. If you enjoy mulberries or supplements containing Morus species, it’s important to be aware of these potential risks to make balanced health decisions.
What is Mulberry?
Mulberry refers to the fruit of trees from the Morus genus, most notably Morus alba (white), Morus nigra (black), and Morus rubra (red). Traditionally, various parts of mulberry plants are used in:
- Fresh fruit consumption and recipes such as jams, desserts, and teas
- Herbal medicine for improving metabolism and controlling cholesterol
- Sericulture (silk production), as mulberry leaves serve as food for silkworms
Despite these uses, scientific research and clinical experience have identified several potential side effects associated with its eaten fruit, leaves, and derivative products.
Possible Side Effects of Mulberry
While generally safe for most people when eaten in moderation, mulberry can cause adverse health effects in certain individuals. Key reported side effects include:
1. Allergic Reactions
Though rare, documented cases show that mulberry fruit can trigger systemic allergic reactions, especially in people with pollen allergies or who are already atopic (have a predisposition to allergy). Symptoms may include:
- Generalized skin rashes (urticaria, hives)
- Swelling of lips, mouth, or tongue (angioedema)
- Breathing difficulties and chest tightness
- Abdominal cramps and nausea
- Nasal obstruction or runny nose
This reaction may be linked to IgE-mediated cross-reactivity between mulberry fruit and certain pollens, most notably birch pollen, due to the presence of PR 10 proteins such as Bet v 1 homologues. Individuals who experience oral allergy syndrome (itching or tingling of the mouth after eating fruits like peaches, plums, or apples) could be at increased risk.
2. Blood Sugar Lowering and Risk of Hypoglycemia
Mulberry leaves and fruits contain compounds that can reduce blood sugar levels. While this effect is beneficial for many, it can present hazards for some:
- People taking blood sugar-lowering medications may experience dangerously low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) if mulberry is consumed in excess.
- Those with naturally low blood sugar or prone to hypoglycemic episodes should also exercise caution.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
3. Gastrointestinal Effects
Mulberry fruit contains pectin, a soluble fiber that can function as a mild laxative. Consumption in larger amounts may lead to:
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Abdominal bloating or gas
- Cramps and discomfort
What others are reading
These effects are usually mild and subside when intake is reduced, but they can become significant for sensitive individuals or those with digestive issues.
4. Carbohydrate and Lipid Absorption Inhibition
Active extracts from mulberry, such as 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), are believed to inhibit enzymes responsible for digesting carbohydrates and triglycerides. While potentially helpful for metabolic health, excessive intake may lead to deficiencies in energy nutrients or interfere with absorption of certain vitamins.
- Possible digestive discomfort due to unabsorbed nutrients.
- Risk for malnutrition with long-term excessive intake.
5. Caution Regarding Carcinogenic Compounds
Some sources claim mulberry contains constituents that may possess carcinogenic effects. Specifically, certain components, possibly by-products of extraction or preparation (e.g., in supplements), have been highlighted, though strong human evidence is lacking. Until more is known, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people with a history of cancer, may wish to avoid heavy supplementation.
6. Potential Drug Interactions
Mulberry can interact with various medications:
- May amplify the effects of anti-diabetic drugs, leading to hypoglycemia, especially if taken concurrently with diabetes medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycemics.
- Reports indicate interactions with drugs metabolized in the liver (e.g., midazolam), possibly altering their effects due to slowed breakdown.
- May interfere with blood sugar management during surgery; medical guidance recommends stopping mulberry use at least two weeks before planned surgical procedures.
7. Considerations During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Reliable data on the safety of mulberry fruit or leaf supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding is insufficient. Some suggest potential risks, so avoidance is advised for these groups.
8. Risk of Cross-Allergies
People allergic to figs or other Moraceae family members may also respond adversely to mulberry fruit. Caution is recommended if you have such known allergies.
Table: Summary of Main Mulberry Side Effects, Risks, and Who Should Avoid
| Side Effect / Risk | Key Symptoms / Issues | At-Risk Groups |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction | Hives, swelling, breathing trouble, GI upset | People with pollen, fruit, or birch/fig allergies |
| Hypoglycemia | Dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, fainting | Individuals on diabetes meds, those with low blood sugar |
| GI Issues | Diarrhea, cramping, bloating | People with sensitive digestion |
| Drug Interactions | Altered drug effects, risk of low blood sugar post-surgery | People on anti-diabetic meds, those having surgery |
| Unknown Safety | Potential carcinogenic effect, lack of pregnancy data | Pregnant/breastfeeding women, those with a history of cancer |
Best Practices for Safe Mulberry Consumption
- Limit intake to moderate amounts, especially if you are new to mulberries.
- Discuss supplement use with your healthcare provider, particularly if you have allergies, diabetes, are pregnant, or take prescription medications.
- Discontinue mulberry supplements at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.
- If you experience allergic symptoms after consumption, seek immediate medical attention.
Mulberry Myths vs. Facts
| Common Myth | Scientific Fact |
|---|---|
| Mulberry is always safe because it’s natural. | Natural products can cause allergies, drug interactions, or adverse effects. |
| Mulberry can cure diabetes without risk. | It can lower blood sugar but may cause hypoglycemia when combined with medications. |
| Mulberry is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. | No conclusive data supports this safety; precaution is warranted. |
| Eating more gives faster results. | Excessive consumption increases risk of digestive and metabolic side effects. |
FAQs about Mulberry Side Effects
Q1: Can I be allergic to mulberry if I have hay fever or pollen allergies?
Yes. Mulberry fruit contains proteins similar to birch pollen allergens which could trigger reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those with existing pollen or fruit allergies.
Q2: Are there any medications I shouldn’t combine with mulberry?
Avoid taking mulberry with prescription anti-diabetic drugs unless supervised by a doctor, as it may amplify blood sugar reduction. If you’re taking drugs metabolized by the liver, seek medical advice before starting mulberry supplements.
Q3: Is mulberry safe for children?
Small quantities of ripe mulberries are generally safe for healthy children, but allergic risks and possible digestive upset should be considered, especially if they have a history of sensitivities.
Q4: Can pregnant women eat mulberries?
There is insufficient clinical data to confirm the safety of mulberry use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it is recommended to avoid or use only under medical guidance.
Q5: What are the signs of a serious reaction to mulberry?
Sudden hives, swelling, breathing difficulty, severe abdominal pain, or dizziness after ingestion require immediate attention—these may indicate a severe allergic response.
Takeaway
While mulberry can be a tasty, nutritious part of many diets, it has the potential to cause unexpected and sometimes serious side effects. Awareness and moderation are key, along with open communication with your healthcare provider if you are considering regular use of mulberry products, especially if you belong to a high-risk group.
References
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4341342/
- https://www.lybrate.com/topic/mulberry-fruit-benefits-and-side-effects
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-357/black-mulberry
- https://www.poison.org/articles/is-white-mulberry-poisonous
- https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/unexpected-side-effects-of-mulberry/
- https://www.houzz.com/discussions/5275432/mulberries-i-got-sick-eating-them
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
