Mulberry Fruits are known in India as ‘Shahtoot’ in Hindi and it is the fruit of the mulberry tree, Morus Alba.
These are refreshingly succulent, tart, and sweet to taste and are indeed rich in numerous health-benefiting flavonoids. According to this study, Shahtoot is one of the healthiest fruits that can benefit the person consuming it in more than one way. It is known to contain 88% water, 10% carbohydrates, 1% protein, and less than 1% fat, thus the health-aiding quotient is high for this fruit. Mulberry fruits are a delicious and nutritious berry, enjoyed by people all over the world. It is a naturally sweet fruit that looks similar to the blackberry fruit but tastes more like grapes.
Mulberries, often referred as ‘Shahtoot‘ in Hindi, ‘Kambali Pandu‘ in Telugu, ‘Mucukkattaip palam’ in Tamil, ‘Hippunerale‘ in Kannada, ‘Shetur‘ in Guajrati, ‘Tutee‘ in Marathi and ‘Shatut‘ in Punjabi.
What is Mulberry Fruit?
Mulberries or shahtoot fruits are sweet fruits from a genus of deciduous trees that grow in a variety of temperate areas around the world. It is thought to have possibly originated in China. Since then, they have spread throughout the world. They are used widely for their unique flavour, as well as their impressive and unusual composition of nutrients. This fruit comes in several varieties which can be differentiated in terms of colour - red, black and blue. Usually eaten in a dried form, it is a versatile fruit and can be easily integrated into various recipes.
History of Mulberry Fruit
In the past, mulberry trees were cultivated for the purpose of sericulture (rearing silkworm). Silkworms feed on mulberry leaves and produce silk. The practice of sericulture began in China. This was passed down to India through the Tibetan folks during the year 140 B.C and took place near the banks of the river Brahmaputra and Ganga.
Shahtoot Fruit in India
Mulberry fruits are one of the sweetest fruits in the world. To enjoy the taste of Mulberry fruit in your mouth is just as pleasant as smelling it off the tree. There's a reason why it is called one of the most beneficial fruits in the world; it has a variety of nutrients, antioxidants and micro-minerals that boost up your skin, hair & health too. If you are still undecided about why to go for this purchase, here are some of the top-notch health benefits this wonder fruit has to offer.
What Are the Health Benefits of Mulberry Fruit (Shahtoot)?
Mulberry fruits benefits are many. These fruits are not only sweet and juicy to eat but also rich in nutrients that can be used to treat various health conditions. Let us take a sneak peek into some of the most amazing benefits of Mulberry fruits:- Supports positive effects on aging: A good source of antioxidants, it helps lessen the damage of free radicals. According to this study, the entire mulberry plant contains antioxidants. This plant has one prominent antioxidant called resveratrol, which according to this research, is credited for having positive effects on age and longevity.
- Supports a healthy immune system: Mulberry fruit contains certain alkaloids that activate Macrophages which are a type of white blood cells that tackle infection.
- Supports healthy blood sugar level: Study suggests that mulberry fruit suppresses the elevation of blood sugar level and thus balances and controls the sugar level. Traditional medicinal practices in China, Trinidad, and Tobago use the leaves of the mulberry plant to promote balanced blood sugar levels.
- Supports healthy brain: A research institute at Khon Kaen University, Thailand conducted a study that which included experiments on the effects of a mulberry plant with memory impairment and brain damage. Although further investigation is yet to be conducted, it has been declared that mulberry fruit enhances cognitive and neuroprotectants of the brain. This elevates better memory and less oxidative stress.
- Supports healthy bone tissue: Mulberry fruit is rich in Vitamin K, calcium, iron and contains traces of phosphorous and magnesium which is beneficial for the healthy maintenance of bone tissue, and prevents bone degeneration.
- Supports digestive health: The fruit is a good source of dietary fibre in a single serving. The dietary fibre in this fruit helps improve digestive health and prevents one from having constipation, bloating and cramps. By facilitating proper digestion and avoiding symptoms of constipation, mulberry fruit is deemed beneficial in weight loss and management in an optimal manner.
- Supports healthy vision: This fruit contains a carotenoid called zeaxanthin, which is connected directly to the reduction in oxidative stress on certain ocular cells, including the retina of the eye. It further prevents damage to the retina caused by free radicals. The carotenoids found in it can also help in preventing cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Promotes Cardiovascular Health: In today’s fast-paced life, and sedentary lifestyle choices, staying active is not a choice anymore; it has become a necessity. And, cardiovascular health needs more attention. The consumption of shahtoot fruit can help reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood and thus promotes optimal cardiovascular health. The flavonoids, antioxidants, and fibres in mulberry fruit can also help prevent heart attacks, and strokes.
- Reduces the risk of chronic diseases like Cancer: Mulberry helps to minimize the risk of cancer through its antioxidant capacity. It contains anthocyanins (the darker colour of Mulberry), ellagic acid, and resveratrol, which are compounds that help fight off cancer and inhibit the growth of tumours. The polyphenol antioxidants in mulberries help to prevent bad oxygen-free radicals from harming your cells. Free radicals have been linked to a variety of other health-related conditions, including stroke, and heart disease.
- Aids in better blood circulation: Mulberry fruits are rich in antioxidants that aid in the proper functioning of the blood vessels. A better blood flow from the heart to other parts of the body helps to manage and control blood pressure. It also helps reduce cholesterol levels which are important for heart function.
How to Include Shahtoot In Daily Diet
We have already covered the plethora of health benefits of consuming shahtoot on a regular basis. Coming up short with ideas on how to be creative in your consumption. Here are a few ways.
- Consuming this fruit directly will make you avail of its benefits directly
- If you are a fan of juices, then this will make you quite a healthy one
- Love pancakes? Mix the semi-fluid blend of this fruit in your pancake batter to give it a twist
- Did you know that mulberry leaves also are edible? Surprised? Well, you can prepare tea with these leaves. Include it in your morning or afternoon tea routine for a change!
Side Effects of Shahtoot
Caroused through the plethora of health benefits of Shahtoot? Are you wondering if there are any side effects of it? The side effects are a few compared to its vast advantages. Being rich in potassium, it is not advised for people with kidney-related health issues. It may lower blood sugar levels, and at times it might be risky. In the odd scenario where you notice a few skin rashes, or swelling, don’t be surprised. It could be a side effect of the mulberry fruit. The most common side effect of shahtoot is skin irritation. Common causes include improper handling, infestations, to much exposure to sunlight and the consumption of unripe fruit.
If you still find that mulberry is causing you allergies, then it is strictly advised to consult a doctor to figure out the root cause. Pregnant and lactating women are advised to consult with their doctors before opting to consume mulberry fruits.
These are a few health benefits of Mulberry (Shahtoot) fruit! Zizira is now inclined towards traditional remedies that regenerate health and the land. Join us on this journey of discovering ancient plants, how they heal us and the team who are creating quality products right from the unique corner of India. Do you know of any useful benefit of Mulberry fruit benefits? Would love to hear from you. Share it with us in the comment section below.
