Broussonetia papyrifera

Broussonetia papyrifera

Broussonetia papyrifera, commonly known as paper mulberry, is a traditional plant used primarily in East Asian cultures. While its specific medicinal uses are not well-documented historically, studies have shown that Broussonetia papyrifera contains bioactive constituents such as BCA (β-caryophyllene), which exhibit potential cognitive benefits and may help disrupt the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease by inhibiting β-amyloid aggregation. Scientific evidence suggests that certain fractions from its fruit extract can attenuate Alzheimer's symptoms in both cellular models and C. elegans, though more research is needed to confirm these findings comprehensively. Notably, Broussonetia papyrifera pollen is a significant contributor to spring allergens in urban areas like Chengdu, comprising 77.65% of the total pollen count during this season. Safety concerns and known drug interactions are currently unreported for this plant.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • WD + Bic elicited different early stress responses in B. papyrifera and M. alba compared to WD alone, without uniformly intensifying stress. D PMID
  • Broussonetia papyrifera was the most dominant pollen type, comprising 77.65% of the total pollen in Chengdu's urban area during spring. D PMID
  • The ethyl acetate fraction of Broussonetia papyrifera fruit extract attenuated Alzheimer's pathogenesis by disrupting the vicious cycle of Aβ and oxidative stress in both C. elegans and cellular models. D PMID
  • BCA, a bioactive constituent of Broussonetia papyrifera, is a potent β-amyloid aggregation inhibitor that improves cognitive function in scopolamine-induced mice. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Broussonetia papyrifera?

Broussonetia papyrifera (Broussonetia papyrifera) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Broussonetia papyrifera?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Broussonetia papyrifera; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: WD + Bic elicited different early stress responses in B. papyrifera and M. alba compared to WD alone, without uniformly intensifying stress.

How strong is the evidence for Broussonetia papyrifera?

The strongest finding for Broussonetia papyrifera carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Broussonetia papyrifera safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Broussonetia papyrifera in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Broussonetia papyrifera interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Broussonetia papyrifera in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Broussonetia papyrifera a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Broussonetia papyrifera fruit extract attenuates Alzheimer's pathogenesis via disrupting the vicious cycle of Aβ and oxidative stress in C. elegans and cellular models. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 [Annual monitoring and analysis of airborne pollen in Chengdu urban area of Sichuan Province]. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Leaf electrophysiological readouts reveal bicarbonate-associated shifts in early water-deficit response modes in Broussonetia papyrifera and Morus alba. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Broussochalcone A alleviates cognitive impairment in scopolamine-induced mice as a potent β-amyloid aggregation inhibitor and changes blood and brain metabolite profiles. literature abstract metadata