The 5 Best White Mulberry Leaf Extract Supplements of 2024 in Canada: A Dietitian’s Picks

Introduction

White mulberry leaf extract is a dietary supplement derived from the leaves of the white mulberry plant (Morus alba). The plant is native to certain parts of Asia, especially China, and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments, including diabetes and high cholesterol. White mulberry leaf extract magically lowers blood-sugar levels. It also contains flavonoids and other beneficial compounds, which may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is a supplement to treat diabetes, cholesterol, and weight loss. This blog will share all the necessary information about the 5 best white mulberry leaf extract supplement in Canada.

Let's take a deep dive into these 5 best white mulberry leaf extract supplement in Canada

Tips for choosing the right white leaf mulberry extract for you

White mulberry leaf extract is not typically found in food as it’s mainly used as a dietary supplement. It can be found in some traditional Chinese food where they have used White mulberry leaves as a herb but not in commonly found foods. It’s important to note that even if a food or beverage claims to contain white mulberry leaf extract, the amount of the extract in the product may not be standardized, and the product may not be subject to the same level of quality control as supplements.

White mulberry leaf extract supplements are available in multiple forms, including

Capsules: 

White mulberry leaf extract is often sold in capsule form, which is easy to take and one can consume it with water. The capsules contain a standardized dose of the extract.

Tablets: 

Tablets containing white mulberry leaf extract are also available. Like capsules, they are easy to consume and can be taken with water.

Tea: 

White mulberry leaf extract can also be consumed as a tea. The leaves of the white mulberry plant are dried, ground, and then brewed to make teas.

Powders: 

White mulberry leaf extract is also available in powder form, which can be added to foods and beverages for added nutritional benefit.

Liquid extract: 

Another way to consume white mulberry leaf extract is in liquid form as an extract, which is often more potent and concentrated than other forms and can be added to drinks or foods.

When purchasing a white mulberry leaf extract supplement, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

Look for a reputable brand: 

Purchase from a reputable brand that follows good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to ensure the quality and consistency of their products.

Check for a certificate of analysis: 

Look for a certificate of analysis (COA) from a third-party laboratory, which verifies the supplement’s purity, potency, and safety.

Check the dosage and ingredients: 

Ensure that you understand the instructions and that the product contains the amount of white mulberry leaf extract appropriate for your needs. Be aware of other ingredients that could cause allergies or interact with other medications.

Consult with a healthcare professional: 

Before taking any dietary supplement, including white mulberry leaf extract, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you have any medical condition or are taking any medications.

Be careful of over-the-counter claims: 

Be wary of products that make unrealistic or overly broad claims about the benefits of white mulberry leaf extract, as scientific evidence may not support these claims.

Keep an eye out for the expiration date: 

Always check for the expiry date and store it in a cool and dry place per the instruction to maintain efficacy.

Benefits of using white leaf mulberry extract

White mulberry leaf extract supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and teas. The key features of white mulberry leaf extract supplements include

 

 

Blood sugar-lowering effects: 

White mulberry leaf extract supplements may help reduce blood sugar levels by inhibiting the absorption of carbohydrates. The extract contains 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Alpha-glucosidase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, such as glucose, which are absorbed into the bloodstream. By inhibiting alpha-glucosidase activity, white mulberry leaf extract may slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, which can help lower blood sugar levels.

Studies have suggested that white mulberry leaf extract may effectively reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The extract has also been shown to lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, which is a measure of blood sugar control over some time.

Cholesterol-lowering effects: 

White mulberry leaf extract supplements may help control cholesterol levels by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fats. The extract contains compounds known as steroidal saponins, which have been shown to decrease the absorption of dietary fats by inhibiting the activity of pancreatic lipases. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down fats. By reducing the absorption of fats, white mulberry leaf extract may help lower cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Several studies have suggested that white mulberry leaf extract may effectively reduce cholesterol levels, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. The extract has been shown to lower cholesterol levels in animal and cell culture studies.

Antioxidant properties: 

White mulberry leaf extract supplements contain flavonoids and other beneficial compounds that may have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect cells in the body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.

Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant found in many plants, including white mulberry. These compounds have been shown to protect cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals and may also have anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, white mulberry leaf extract also contains several other antioxidant compounds such as gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, and others.

Anti-inflammatory properties: 

White mulberry leaf extract supplements may have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the production of inflammatory compounds in cells, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of various diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

The flavonoids and other beneficial compounds found in white mulberry leaf extract have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In some animal studies, it was also observed to reduce inflammation in several conditions, such as colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other models. However, more clinical research is needed to confirm the anti-inflammatory properties of white mulberry leaf extract in humans.

Weight loss: 

White mulberry leaf extract also contains compounds known as steroidal saponins, which have been shown to decrease the absorption of dietary fats by inhibiting the activity of pancreatic lipases. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down fats. By reducing the absorption of fats, white mulberry leaf extract may help lower calorie intake and aid weight loss.

The extract contains 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Alpha-glucosidase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, such as glucose, which are absorbed into the bloodstream. By inhibiting the activity of alpha-glucosidase, white mulberry leaf extract may slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, which can reduce calorie intake and help with weight loss.

Side-effects of using white mulberry leaf extract supplement

White mulberry leaf extract is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, it may cause some side effects. Some reported side effects include

Digestive issues: 

White mulberry leaf extract may cause stomach discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea, particularly in high doses.

Allergic reactions: 

Some people may experience an allergic reaction to white mulberry leaf extract, including rash, hives, itching, or difficulty breathing.

Interactions with medications: 

White mulberry leaf extract may interact with certain medications, including blood sugar-lowering drugs and blood thinners. It should be avoided or used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: 

White mulberry leaf extract should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there is not enough information to determine whether it is safe. Pregnant women are advised to be cautious with supplements or herbal products, as they may affect the developing fetus. Breastfeeding women should also be cautious with any supplement or herbal product, as it may be passed on to the infant through breastmilk

Children: 

There is not enough information to determine whether it is safe for children, so it should be avoided in children or used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

How to consume white mulberry leaf extract supplement

Capsules or tablets: 

White mulberry leaf extract supplements in capsule or tablet form are typically taken with water. The recommended dosage will depend on the specific product, and it’s important to follow the instructions on the label or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Tea: 

White mulberry leaf extract can also be consumed as a tea. The leaves of the white mulberry plant are dried, ground, and then brewed to make tea. The tea can be made by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of the dried white mulberry leaves in hot water for about 5 minutes.

Powders: 

White mulberry leaf extract powder can be added to foods or beverages for nutritional benefit. It can be added to smoothies and yogurts or mixed with water, juice, or other liquid.

Liquid extract: 

White mulberry leaf extract can also be taken in liquid form as an extract, which is often more potent and concentrated than other forms. It can be added to drinks or foods.

It’s important to note that the recommended dosage for white mulberry leaf extract will vary depending on the specific product, and it’s best to follow the instructions on the label or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Morus alba, the white mulberry plant found quite abundantly in Southeast Asia, mainly in China. The white mulberry plant extract supplement treats numerous ailments, though no confirmed scientific evidence exists. It is active in controlling blood sugar levels and cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is important to note that dietary supplements, including white mulberry leaf extract, may not be regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to the same degree as medications. Therefore, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplement, including white mulberry leaf extract.