Botika Botanika Mulberry Leaf GlucoBalance Tabs

Botika Botanika Mulberry Leaf & Fruit GlucoBalance Tabs (1g) combine the therapeutic virtues of Morus alba leaf and fruit, harmonized into a daily metabolic support formula rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and backed by emerging clinical data. In TCM, mulberry leaf (Sang Ye) is traditionally used to clear liver heat, regulate blood glucose, and support respiratory balance, while the ripe fruit (Sang Shen) nourishes the yin, invigorates the blood, and moistens dryness—addressing systemic depletion seen in metabolic fatigue syndromes.

This Botika Botanika formulation delivers a standardized 1:1 leaf-to-fruit ratio, dehydrated and compressed into a potent 1g tablet. Leaf constituents are rich in DNJ (1-deoxynojirimycin), known to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, thereby slowing carbohydrate absorption and reducing postprandial glycemic spikes. The fruit complements this with anthocyanins, resveratrol, and mild iron content, contributing to microvascular tone, anti-inflammatory protection, and blood-building support.

Developed through rigorous phytochemical screening and highland-adapted drying protocols, this blend is ideal for individuals managing:

Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes

Reactive hypoglycemia or insulin resistance

Fatigue due to blood and fluid deficiency (as per TCM diagnostics)

Post-viral depletion or chronic inflammation

Unlike isolated extracts, this dual-part formulation preserves the organoleptic balance and full synergy of the plant’s leaves and fruits. Botika Botanika ensures traceable sourcing, minimal processing, and strict compositional integrity for effective integration into both evidence-based practice and traditional healing protocols.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

The primary bioactive in mulberry leaf, 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), is a water-soluble iminosugar that is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine via paracellular transport. It does not require enzymatic modification prior to absorption. Anthocyanins, resveratrol, and flavonols from the fruit are absorbed in the upper GI tract through sodium-dependent glucose transporters (SGLT1) and passive diffusion. Peak plasma concentrations for DNJ typically occur within 1–1.5 hours, while anthocyanins show dual peaks due to enterohepatic recirculation.

Distribution:

Once in systemic circulation, DNJ remains largely unbound to plasma proteins and distributes freely in the hepatic portal system, making the liver a primary target. Anthocyanins and resveratrol distribute into endothelial tissue, retina, and neural tissue due to partial lipid solubility. Mulberry flavonoids exhibit preferential uptake in pancreatic and vascular tissues, where glucose regulation is modulated.

Metabolism:

DNJ is minimally metabolized, retaining its structure during systemic transit. This allows direct pharmacodynamic action at the brush-border membrane of the intestine. In contrast, anthocyanins undergo phase II conjugation in the liver, forming glucuronide and sulfate metabolites. Resveratrol is metabolized via UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT1A1) and sulfotransferase (SULT1A1) enzymes.

Elimination:

DNJ is excreted unchanged via renal pathways, with a half-life of approximately 2.5–3 hours. Anthocyanin conjugates and resveratrol metabolites are eliminated through both urinary and biliary routes. Mild enterohepatic recycling can extend the antioxidant activity profile for up to 12 hours post-dose.

Pharmacodynamics

Glucose Modulation:

DNJ functions as a reversible competitive inhibitor of alpha-glucosidase enzymes in the small intestine. This delays the breakdown of disaccharides into monosaccharides, thus attenuating postprandial glucose spikes. It also downregulates SGLT1 expression in hyperglycemic states, further modulating glucose entry.

Insulin Sensitivity:

Mulberry flavonoids—particularly quercetin and kaempferol derivatives—improve insulin receptor sensitivity via AMPK activation, enhancing glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue. DNJ also lowers resistin levels and upregulates adiponectin, contributing to better insulin action.

Vascular Effects:

Anthocyanins and resveratrol exert endothelial-protective effects by stimulating eNOS activity, improving nitric oxide availability, and reducing oxidized LDL formation. These compounds also suppress VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, reducing leukocyte adhesion and vascular inflammation.

Neuroendocrine Modulation:

Resveratrol from mulberry fruit exhibits sirtuin activation, which may positively influence mitochondrial biogenesis and neurovascular regulation. Animal studies suggest improvements in cognitive performance, cerebral blood flow, and stress tolerance in metabolic syndrome models.

Hepatoprotection and Detoxification:

Mulberry polyphenols upregulate glutathione peroxidase and catalase enzymes, enhancing hepatic antioxidant defenses. This is particularly beneficial in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or insulin-resistant hepatic profiles.

Red Blood Cell & Microvascular Tone:

Iron and flavonoids in the fruit enhance microcirculatory oxygenation and support red blood cell synthesis, aiding fatigue and poor perfusion common in glycemic disorders.