Mulberry

Abstract

Mulberry plant belongs to family Moracea from genus morus can be cultivated in mountains, plains and valleys even in humid and rain fed areas. Many various varieties of this plant are present around the world but three prime varieties include i.e. native red mulberry (Morus rubra), East Asian white mulberry (Morus Alba) and south western Asian black mulberry (Morus Nigra). Due to the presence of certain biological active compounds in its fruit, it provides several pharmacological benefits to health. Polyphenols, Flavonols, Anthocyanin, Flavonoids, Anthocyanins, Benzoic acid and Hydroxycinnamic acid are the major bioactive active compounds responsible for pharmacological benefits i.e. anti-cholesterol, anti-diabetic, antioxidative and anti-obesity effects. Fruit of this plant can be consumed as whole fruit, as juice and as spread but its preservation is difficult due to its high water content. This chapter will aim to focus on different types of mulberry plant and pharmacologic benefit of different mulberry fruits.