Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Morus, commonly known as mulberry, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in East Asia. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), both the leaves (Morus alba, or white mulberry) and fruits have been used to manage symptoms of the common cold, such as cough, fever, and sore throat. The leaves, in particular, are believed to dispel "wind-heat" and are included in various herbal formulas for upper respiratory infections. Historical records and ancient pharmacopeias document these uses, and the plant's antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties have been a part of folk remedies for generations.

From a scientific standpoint, there is limited but emerging evidence to support the antiviral effects of certain Morus species. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated that extracts from Morus leaves and fruits possess activity against viruses such as influenza and common cold viruses (rhinoviruses), likely due to the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and polysaccharides with known immunomodulatory and antiviral actions. However, these findings are mostly preliminary, and robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Therefore, while traditional use is well-documented, scientific validation remains limited, justifying a modest evidence rating.

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