The Endurance of the Mulberry: A Berried Treasure

Silkworms may be on to something when it comes to eating mulberries. Cultivated since ancient times, the leaves of the mulberry tree have been fed to silkworms to produce silk. In modern times, the mulberry is desired as a super food with extra ordinary nutritional benefits. From China to Turkey, the precious morsel has had many functions whether it is providing shade from its tree, grub for the silkworm, a tasty snack or medicinal syrup.

Known in China as a health tonic, mulberry syrup has been known to protect against many diseases. While it nourishes the blood, it can treat weakness, anemia and fatigue and also help reduce heart palpitations. The berry is ladled with Resveratrol, an antioxidant found also in red wine. The mulberry is one of very few fruits that actually contain protein. One ounce of dried mulberries contains three grams of protein. With a high concentration of iron, the sweet berry also contains potassium, calcium, minerals and fiber. One ounce of dried berries has about four grams of fiber. While mulberries can balance internal secretions which may be beneficial for those with constipation, the fruit also will strengthen eyesight and reduce grey hair. It is an anti-inflammatory reducing the risks of arthritis and atherosclerosis. The syrup is also very soothing for minor sore throats.

If you haven't noticed fresh mulberries in the produce aisle, don't be alarmed. The tasty tidbit is quite perishable and very fragile. Dried mulberries as well as the syrup can be found in your grocery aisle at healthy food outlets. Harvesting the berry usually entails shaking the tree carefully until the berries fall into a large net or cloth. Only the selected berries are taken to be sun dried. The berries are black, white or sometimes red in color.

Dried berries add a burst of flavor in granola, trail mix, smoothies and desserts. Very similar to a raisin, dried mulberries make a perfect grab and go snack.

The ancient Romans also enjoyed the red and white berries. Old Roman folklore reflects back to the prolific poet Ovid when he wrote about two lovers fighting and killing each other under a mulberry tree in his tragedy Pyramus. The blood from the lovers, according to Ovid, is what caused the mulberry to turn red.

Whatever the reason to why we may have red, black or white mulberries is truly insignificant to the real power of the potent berry. The enduring nutritional benefits that the berry provides is the treasure of this wonder fruit.

Sources:
www.vivapura.com
www.lifestyle.iloveindia.com
www.navitanaturals.com
www.itmonline.org/arts/morus