Comprehensive review of phytochemicals and pharmacological activities of white mulberry (Morus alba L.) for medicinal use

Nuray KOZHAKHMETOVA, Aiman Akhelova, Nurgali RAKHYMBAYEV, Kairat ZHAKIPBEKOV, Rabiga Anarbayeva, Elmira SERIKBAYEVA, Bakyt KYDYRALIYEV, Мурат Аширов, ARAILYM MUKANOVA

2026

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DOI 10.32782/2522-9680-2026-1-307
Data confidence 70 medium
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Abstract

Actuality.White mulberry (Morus alba L.) is a promising subject of phytochemical and pharmacological research due to its wide range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and phenolic substances.Current studies confirm its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective effects, highlighting its potential as a source for new medicines and dietary supplements.Considering the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases associated with metabolic disorders and oxidative stress, the search for safe and effective plant-based remedies is of high importance.Therefore, summarizing data on the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activity of morus alba L. is scientifically and practically significant for pharmaceutical and medical applications.The article is devoted to studying the phytochemical composition and pharmacological activity of morus alba L. The main bioactive substances, including flavonoids, alkaloids, polysaccharides, and phenolic acids, were analyzed.Their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and antibacterial properties were examined.Particular attention was given to the potential of white mulberry extract as a medicinal product.Objective of the study.Determining the potential medical applications of morus alba L. Materials and methods.This structured review synthesized data from 70 peer-reviewed publications (2017-2025) identified via PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science.The search focused on the pharmacological activity and major bioactive compounds of morus alba (leaves, fruits, and root bark).The final qualitative synthesis categorized the findings according to biological activity types, molecular mechanisms of action, and potential therapeutic applications of white mulberry.Research results.The main phytochemical components of morus alba L. were identified.The total phenol content ranged from 104.78 to 213.53 mg GAE/100 g, while flavonoid content varied between 69.58 and 211.01 mg CE/100 g.The plant is rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron.Its active compounds (alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, coumarins) exhibit antioxidant, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and hypoglycemic properties.These findings highlight the potential of white mulberry in medicine. Conclusion.Based on the analysis of published experimental studies, the pharmacological activities of white mulberry were systematized according to plant parts and profiles of bioactive compounds.Extracts from leaves, fruits, bark, and roots demonstrate hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective effects in in vitro and in vivo models.The level of experimental and clinical evidence varies among the reported effects, indicating the need for further clinical validation of selected pharmacological activities.