Affiliation:
1. Institute of Metabolic Diseases, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, P. R. China
2. Graduate College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, P. R. China
3. Graduate College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, P. R. China
4. Development Department, Guang’anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, P. R. China
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) has become a surge burden worldwide owing to its high prevalence and range of associated complications such as coronary artery disease, blindness, stroke, and renal failure. Accordingly, the treatment and management of DM have become a research hotspot. Mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for a long time, with the first record of its use published in Shennong Bencao Jing (Shennong’s Classic of Materia Medica). Mulberry leaves (MLs) are considered highly valuable medicinal food homologs that contain polysaccharides, flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive substances. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that MLs have multiple bioactive effects, including hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, antioxidation, and anti-inflammatory properties, with the ability to protect islet [Formula: see text]-cells, alleviate insulin resistance, and regulate intestinal flora. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of MLs in DM have not been fully elucidated. In this review, we summarize the botanical characterization, traditional use, chemical constituents, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology of MLs, and highlight the mechanisms involved in treating DM and its complications. This review can provide a valuable reference for the further development and utilization of MLs in the prevention and treatment of DM.
Funder
the National Natural Science Foundation of China
CACMS Outstanding Young Scientific and Technological Talents Program
Scientific and Technological Innovation Project of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences
Innovation Team and Talents Cultivation Program of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Publisher
World Scientific Pub Co Pte Ltd
Subject
Complementary and alternative medicine,General Medicine