Phytochemical profile and pharmaceutical properties of mulberry fruits

The fruits of Morus species from the Mulberry family (Moraceae) are traditionally consumed widely due to their positive effects on health. The interest about its health effect are increasing due to its rich content of bioactive components (flavonol, anthocyanin, flavanonol, phenolic acids, alkaloids), minerals (potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium), vitamins (vitamin B1 and folic acid), oils (linoleic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid) and melatonin. In vitro and in vivo studies indicated that the fruits have positive health effects such as anti-diabetic, antioxidant, neuroprotective, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antiparkinsonian, anti-tumor/anti-cancer, antimicrobial and immune-enhancing effects due to the bioactive components. In addition, mulberry fruit are traditionally consumed for their diabetes, hypertension, liver, kidney damage, and eye improvement effects. However, there is only limited clinical studies about the pharmacological properties of mulberry fruits whereas more in vitro research are present. In this review, the phytochemical profile, in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties of Morus alba, Morus rubra, and Morus nigra fruits were investigated.