‘Here we go round the mulberry bush, The mulberry bush, the mulberry bush; here we go round the mulberry bush, so early in the morning.’
We all remember this rhyme from our toddler years but do we actually recognize Mulberry leaf or are we still in awe of it because of its special friend Mr. Silkworm?
Common Types of Mulberry
The first fact to note is that from around ten species of Mulberry the following four varieties of Mulberry leaves are most commonly found:
- Paper Mulberry
- Red Mulberry
- White Mulberry
- Black Mulberry
Each of these leaves has a distorted edge i.e. the outline of the leave is not smooth and has pointed projections that aren’t sharp at all. Further, these leaves are different from each other as well.
The heart-shaped, short leaves are usually the Black ones while similar ones with blunt or round edges are red or white mulberry leaves.
Also, if the leaves have a gloss like shine then they are sure to be white mulberry while the hairy ones usually belong to the paper leaves. These beautiful leaves not only lead to a yum snack for the silkworms but also are used to prepare the not so regular teas.
The Mulberry tea is usually different and has a very earthy taste to it along with a feeling of toasted seeds of sesame and some aroma of seaweed at times.
How To Make Mulberry Leaf Tea
Making this tea is as simple as it could be. Mulberry leaf tea can be made in two simple ways, one is by using fresh Mulberry leaves and the other is by using dried Mulberry leave. To make tea using fresh leaves all you need to do is wash the fresh leaves thoroughly and add them to water and bring it to boil.
Let it boil for a good time if you wish for the complete taste of the leaves to be absorbed in water. As far as dry leaf tea is concerned then put around 3-5 leaves in boiling water and keep it on the stove for around ten to fifteen minutes before you indulge in the aromatic and tasteful sip of the mulberry leaf tea.
Health Benefits of Mulberry Leaf Tea
Mulberry tea is usually not associated with regular tea but, none the less it has immense health benefits for us. These benefits range from healthy immune to beauty benefits as well. Some of the benefits have been enlisted below:
1) It is believed that Mulberry leaves often protect us from cancer. Especially so, liver cancer is often protected from by consuming mulberry leaves whether dry or fresh.
2) Blood sugar can also be controlled through Mulberry leaves which also often are believed to help in soothing our nerves by enriching blood.
3) It strengthens bone mass and also provides a lot of nutrients namely vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
4) It helps in the regulations of blood pressure and is believed to be a great source of calcium as well.
5) These leaves have high levels of antioxidants that protect us from numerous fatal diseases and help us maintain great skin. Antioxidants are also often believed to have anti-aging properties.
6) These leaves are a one-source stop to cure many skin-related issues and severe infections as well. Some skin diseases and ailments are also known to have found their relief through the use of these leaves.
7) Cholesterol levels can be controlled with the regular use of Mulberry tea. But I would like to add here that please do not rely only on the same without any medical advice.
8) Its aroma and taste are known to soothe and suppress hypertension.
9) It acts as a great digestive and helps in preventing constipation.
Along with the above list, some other benefits include its anti-depressing properties and its ability to help and boost weight management and are an effective solution to skin redness.
Side Effects of Mulberry Leaf Tea
As is said, nothing is all good. Thus, Mulberry leaf tea comes with its set of side effects as well. Some of them are:
- Mulberry leaves are usually high in potassium content or Kalium content and thus, are not suitable for people suffering from kidney-related issues or those who are already consuming medicines containing potassium.
- It is often also known to have lowered the blood sugar levels beyond normal. Such interactions can lead to dangerous results.
- It may lead to certain allergies that might need immediate medical intervention.
Final Words
Mulberry leaves may have always been our link to the buttery smooth and super glossy silk. But, its earthy aroma and distinguished taste make the Mulberry Leaf Tea stand out among its counterparts. It comes with an array of health benefits and a handful of side effects. But, there is never harm in trying new things once in a while. So, enjoy your sip of a piping hot cup of Mulberry Leaf tea and do share your reviews with us.