Natural Herb Library

Mulberry Twig

Chinese
桑枝
Pinyin
Sang Zhi
Latin
Ramulus Mori
Botanical illustration of Mulberry Twig, Morus alba, showing woody branch segments, nodes, dried Sang Zhi twig pieces, and diagnostic plant details.
Botanical plate by Kodi .

Known in TCM as Sang Zhi (桑枝), this slightly bitter, neutral herb enters the Liver. Traditionally, it dispels Wind-Damp and unblocks the channels and collaterals; treats Bi syndrome (painful obstruction) with joint stiffness, swelling, and muscle spasm, particularly of the shoulders and upper limbs, most often applied for joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and edema. Modern research has identified Sangzhi among its active constituents.

Part used: Twig

Also Known As

Morus alba twig Mori

Latin: Ramulus Mori | Pinyin: Sang Zhi | Chinese: 桑枝

TCM Properties

Taste
slightly bitter
Temperature
neutral
Channels
Liver

Traditional Use

Primary Actions

  • Dispels Wind-Damp and unblocks the channels and collaterals; treats Bi syndrome (painful obstruction) with joint stiffness, swelling, and muscle spasm, particularly of the shoulders and upper limbs
  • Promotes urination and reduces limb edema

Classical References

  • Documented in later Chinese materia medica as a gentle Wind-Damp-dispelling herb with a particular affinity for the upper limbs

Modern Research

Active Compounds

  • Sangzhi alkaloids (1-deoxynojirimycin and related iminosugars)
  • Flavonoids

Studied Effects

  • Sangzhi alkaloids are approved in China as a standardized extract for type 2 diabetes management
  • Pharmacokinetic studies show tissue distribution and effects on liver enzyme activity in animal models
  • Alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity supports blood-glucose-lowering use

PubMed References

Safety & Interactions

Cautions

  • May potentiate blood-sugar-lowering medications given documented alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity of its alkaloid constituents

Drug Interactions

  • Theoretical additive hypoglycemic effect with antidiabetic medications

Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mulberry Twig used for?

Mulberry Twig is traditionally used to Dispels Wind-Damp and unblocks the channels and collaterals; treats Bi syndrome (painful obstruction) with joint stiffness, swelling, and muscle spasm, particularly of the shoulders and upper limbs, Promotes urination and reduces limb edema. Research has investigated its effects on: Sangzhi alkaloids are approved in China as a standardized extract for type 2 diabetes management; Pharmacokinetic studies show tissue distribution and effects on liver enzyme activity in animal models.

What are other names for Mulberry Twig?

Mulberry Twig is also known as Morus alba twig, Mori. In TCM: 桑枝 (Sang Zhi); Ramulus Mori.

Is Mulberry Twig safe during pregnancy?

Mulberry Twig is generally considered safe during pregnancy in normal amounts. Therapeutic or concentrated doses should be discussed with a qualified practitioner before use.

Does Mulberry Twig interact with any medications?

Mulberry Twig may interact with: Theoretical additive hypoglycemic effect with antidiabetic medications. Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.