Mulberry Fruits: An Unknown Economic Value

Port Sudan (Sudanow)- Mulberry cultivation in Sudan is considered one of the profitable crops that can contribute to the development of the agricultural sector. Sudan has a favorable climate for mulberry cultivation in some areas, especially in areas where groundwater or permanent irrigation is available.

Nutritional value, therapeutic value, and economic benefits: Sudanow met with Dr. Consultant Mohamed Osman Maysara, an expert in integrated nutrition therapy and alternative medicine and head of the Committee for the Establishment of Alternative Medicine Schools at the Ministry of Health: He said, Sudan has known mulberry cultivation since ancient times in the Blue Nile region in the form of sericulture farms where silkworms are bred to feed on mulberry leaves to produce silk, which is considered one of the finest types of silk in the world in terms of quality, durability, length, and softness.

Mulberry is also cultivated in individual farms in Dongola, northern Sudan, and in the states of Nile River, Khartoum, and southern Gezira. Dr. Mohamed Osman says that mulberry fruits are a diverse product: they can be used to produce juice, jam, and dried fruit, which increases their market value. By obtaining added value, it contributes to supporting exports and the national economy. With the increasing demand for mulberry in global markets, the crop can be exported abroad and achieve good returns. If this cultivation is implemented well, the mulberry industry in Sudan can become a sustainable source of income for farmers.

Regarding the nutritional and therapeutic benefits, Dr. Mesera says that mulberry reduces the risk of chronic diseases and cancer due to its high content of antioxidants. It is also very beneficial in supporting and enhancing the body's immunity, in addition to its importance in improving digestion and reducing constipation, and gas due to its high content of dietary fiber.

Also, it helps in liver health by reducing and eliminating toxins, in addition to reducing bladder inflammation. It also helps in reducing cholesterol and blood sugar, thus preserving the integrity of blood vessels, which helps in lowering blood pressure. Furthermore, it improves bone health due to its content of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and collagen, which helps maintain bone density, especially in old age, where women are more susceptible to osteoporosis.

It also helps prevent recurrent urinary tract infections, thus having a preventive role in addition to its therapeutic role for the urinary tract. It also helps improve fertility for men and women and protects the testosterone-producing cells from damage.

Mulberry plays an important role in boosting the body's immunity, moisturizing the eyes, and protecting them from dryness. It also helps protect the eyes from infections and contagious diseases and enhances visual strength and night vision. Consuming a moderate amount of mulberry reduces the risk of developing glaucoma.

Dr. Mesera concludes her conversation with Sudanaw by highlighting the therapeutic uses of mulberry, recommending the consumption of 4-6 fresh mulberry fruits per day. As for dried mulberry, she suggests a dose of 1.5 grams with half a cup of yogurt before breakfast. Although mulberry is a safe and nutritious fruit, consuming large quantities for an extended period may cause digestive problems, difficulty in digestion, constipation, or diarrhea. It is recommended not to exceed a dose of 1-2 grams of dried mulberry per day.

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