Morus alba root bark

Mulberry bark, derived primarily from Morus alba L. and known as Sang-Bai-Pi in traditional Chinese medicine, is a complex botanical source of therapeutic compounds rather than a specific molecular target or receptor [1, 2]. It contains a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including polyhydroxylated alkaloids like 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), prenylated flavonoids such as morusin and kuwanon G, and stilbenes like mulberroside A [1, 5, 12]. These components interact with various biological targets, such as alpha-glucosidase for blood sugar regulation and NF-kappaB for anti-inflammatory responses [15, 16]. Additionally, mulberry bark has been shown to inhibit the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, suggesting potential anti-cancer applications in multiple myeloma and lung cancer [6]. Historically, the bark has been used to treat respiratory ailments, hypertension, and edema due to its diuretic and antitussive properties [4, 8]. Modern research focuses on its potential in managing metabolic syndrome and providing neuroprotection [9, 11]. Because it is an extract composed of many molecules, it is technically an incorrect entry for a single-target database, but it serves as an important pharmacological precursor for several drug candidates [7, 8].

Other names

Sang-Bai-PiMori CortexWhite Mulberry Root BarkCortex MoriSōhakuhi

Mulberry bark bioactives inhibit alpha-glucosidase to manage postprandial glucose [1, 15], suppress iNOS and NF-kappaB signaling to reduce inflammation [1, 16], and inhibit the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway to exert anti-cancer effects [6].