White mulberry leaves have long been known in Chinese medicine. Today, scientific research confirms the presence of substances that have a positive effect on the human body. Find out how to use white mulberry leaves in the kitchen and get the best from them.
White mulberry comes from China. Today it is cultivated in many regions of the world, including Poland. In allotment gardens it is grown mainly for. However, it is worth knowing that health properties are demonstrated not only by white fruits resembling blackberries, but also by leaves and even bark.
White mulberry leaves are a source of many valuable substances, including vitamin C and beta-carotene, as well as zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Above all, however, they provide protein and fiber, and also extremely antioxidants from the flavonoid group that are valuable for our health.
Scientists also found other valuable active substances in white mulberry leaves. One of the most important is the DNJ association, which is excellent lowers blood sugar.
The slimming properties of white mulberry leaves are influenced, among other things, by their ability to effectively lower blood sugar. The substance abbreviated as DNJ (1-deoxynojirimycin) causes slower digestion of carbohydratesthus protecting against a sudden spike in blood sugar after a meal. What does this mean? White mulberry leaves make us feel full for longer after a meal and avoid hunger pangs, which are a common occurrence. the reason for snacking, e.g. sweets.
Read also:
However, there are more benefits from eating white mulberry leaves. They also protect against many cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis and, consequently, heart attacks and hypertension. The precursor of these diseases is excess cholesterol, which causes atherosclerotic plaque to build up in the arteries. White mulberry leaves lower cholesterol, mainly the LDL fraction, thus protecting against the above-mentioned cardiovascular diseases. That’s not all. Research by Japanese scientists in 2005 on rats showed that white mulberry leaves can reverse existing ones atherosclerotic changes by up to 40%.
White mulberry leaves contain a high concentration antioxidants with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer properties mainly against breast and colon cancer cells. In addition they protect the liver by reducing the concentration of liver enzymes.
You can collect white mulberry leaves from bushes grown in the garden. When fresh, they are perfect for various salads. To store them for a long time, it is best to dry them. Ready-made dried white mulberry leaves they are also available in many health food stores.
You can add dried white mulberry leaves to muesli, cocktails or other dishes. Before doing this, it is best to powder them. You can also prepare it from the leaves . Just pour hot water over them and leave them covered for 5-10 minutes. The infusion prepared in this way drink 15 minutes before a mealto take advantage of the sugar-lowering properties of white mulberry leaves.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl, pubmed
