Mulberry leaf extract exhibits multiple anti-diabetic activities and alleviates dysglycemia, systemic inflammation, hepatic steatosis, and xenobiotic metabolism abnormalities in type 2 diabetic mice

Mulberry leaves can be processed into a tea rich in polyphenols and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) with health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the anti-diabetic effects of mulberry leaf extracts. Potential hypoglycemic and anti-glycation activities were evaluated in vitro. The in vivo therapeutic efficacy was assessed in type 2 diabetic mice, with GABA and exendin-4 serving as reference anti-diabetic agents. The ethanol extract of mulberry leaves was found to contain higher levels of GABA and polyphenols than the water extract. Both extracts exhibited multiple anti-diabetic biological activities. Regarding in vivo therapeutic effects, incorporating 3% (g/g) mulberry leaf extract into the diet for 8 weeks improved glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, serum glucagon like peptide-1 levels, hepatic steatosis and xenobiotic metabolism abnormalities. Additionally, the ethanol extract had a more pronounced effect on immunity. In conclusion, mulberry leaves could be considered a sustainable dietary material to alleviate symptoms of type 2 diabetes.