Many populations use medicinal plants as a therapeutic treatment, due to their lower\ncost and greater access. Among the plant species used for medicinal purposes are those of the\ngenus Morus. The most known species are Morus alba, rubra, and nigra. This review aims to\ncollect data from the literature, predominantly from cell and animal studies, which presents a\npossible nutraceutical and medicinal potential of the species Morus for use in metabolic dysfunctions.\nThe fruits and leaves of mulberry are used for therapeutic purposes. For scientific confirmation of\nthese effects, they were studied for laxative properties, antibacterial activity, anti-atherogenic activity,\nand hepatoprotective function. Furthermore, the genus Morus is recognized for the treatment and\nprevention of diabetes mellitus, through its hypoglycemic action. It may also provide health benefits\nthrough immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nociceptive effects. It has been found that\nthe Morus species have phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and anthocyanins that act as important\nantioxidants and promote beneficial effects on human health. These phytochemical compounds differ\namong species. Blackberry (Morus nigra) are rich in flavonoids, while the white mulberry (Morus alba)\nhas low concentrations of flavonoids and anthocyanins. In addition, another important factor is to\nensure a complete exemption of toxic risks in the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of diseases.\nStudies have shown no toxic effects by the administration of extracts of Morus species. Thus, the\nmulberry tree presents nutraceutical potential. It is therefore a promising alternative for medicinal\nproducts based on medicinal plants.
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