Phytochemical Analysis of Black Mulberry Tree (Morus Nigra)

Abstract

Introduction

All individuals have the right to health. This right means that everyone has the right to obtain the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, which includes access to all medical services and high-quality medicines (Contreras et.al.2018). However, the Philippines as a member of the third world economy is having difficulties in providing all these. The people are resorting to other means such as herbal medicines available. Also, there is limited research-based information on herbal medicines in the country. This study was conducted primarily to describe the Black Mulberry Tree that is grown in Pangasinan, Philippines; to identify the phytochemical constituents present on this tree; and, to describe the medicinal purposes of the phytochemical constituents of Morus nigra.

Methods

It made use of the Qualitative Method Design and Laboratory Method Analysis. The samples were collected and prepared in Alcala, Pangasinan. Plant samples were brought to the University of the Philippines at Diliman, Quezon City for identification and authentication. Plant materials were submitted to the Industrial Technology Development Institute at Bicutan, Taguig for phytochemical analysis.

Results

The Morus nigra is a dioecious tree and grows up to 6-9 m in height. It thrives in warm-temperate regions. Leaves are rough on upper surfaces and pubescent underneath, 7-12.5 cm long, often producing leaves with 1 or more lobes. The flowers appear in scaly clusters, female flowers ripening quickly into 1.3-2.5 cm blackberry-shaped fruits. Black Mulberry Tree can bear fruit six times a year and can start bearing fruit eight months after planting. It can easily be propagated by cuttings and pollination. In terms of phytochemical analysis, the roots and bark are abundant in triterpenes and lacks flavonoids. The bark is also abundant in saponins. The leaves have abundant sterols and the fruits are rich in flavonoids. The bark and roots of the tree could be used to create insect-repellent and anti-microbial solutions because of the abundance of triterpenes. The leaves can be used as anti-cancer and immunity booster since it has a lot of sterols. Flavonoids in fruits could be used as anti-oxidant and heart disease preventers.

Discussions

It is hereby recommended that Black Mulberry Tree be cultivated and be propagated on a larger scale because of its medicinal value. The phytochemical constituents must be isolated and proximate analysis must be performed.