Evaluation of herbal potential of dried white mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) cultivar "Żółwińska wielkolistna".

Introduction: The white mulberry cultivar "Żółwińska wielkolistna" is a rich source of bioactive substances. Objective: The aim of the research was to determine the potential of the Polish white mulberry cultivar "Żółwińska wielkolistna" by determining the content of nutrients, micro- and macroelements and selected flavonoids in the dried leaves of the plant. Moreover, a SWOT analysis was carried out in the scope of the possibility of using the cultivar "Żółwińska wielkolistna" for herbal purposes. Methods: Mulberry leaves were collected in September 2021 from an ecological plantation located at the Experimental Station, Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants in Poznań National Research Institute in Pętkowo. Leaves were dried at 60°C for 12 h and then laboratory analyses were performed. The research objective was to determine the content of selected bioactive substances in dried mulberry leaves. Moreover, the content of nutrients and selected macro- and microelements were determined. Finally, based on the obtained research results, an attempt was made to evaluate the possibility of using the Polish variety in herbal medicine. Results: The dried leaves of white mulberry are a source of nutrients: proteins, fat, sugars and fibre. Moreover, it contains macro- and microelements: calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, sulphur, zinc, chromium and iron. The white mulberry is also a rich source of flavonoids: quercetin, rutin, vitexin, isovitexin, luteolin, and apigenin. In addition, white mulberry leaves are a source of vitamins. The bioactive substances contained in white mulberry leaves can be used to support the treatment of many diseases, including diabetes or atherosclerosis. Conclusions: White mulberry (Morus alba L.) is a plant rich in bioactive substances. A native variety of white mulberry "Żółwińska wielkolistna" is adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of Poland. The obtained research results indicate the possibility of using dried white mulberry leaves in herbalism. Developing herbal market in Poland and growing interest in white mulberry are excellent opportunities for the promotion of Polish white mulberry variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]