There is more to mulberry than just sericulture!

There is more to mulberry than just sericulture!

Scientists of the Forest Research Institute have recommended that the mulberry should also be used as a plantation species in stead of being limited to horticulture and sericulture. The multiple uses of this plant make it an ideal species for plantation due to its benefits for humans and fauna.

According to the head of FRI Botany division, Dr Subhash Nautiyal, the mulberry plant has broad range and grows in different soil types and climate ranging from the coastal areas to the Himalayas. “Considering the livelihood opportunities, different uses of the fruit and different parts of the plant, the mulberry can be considered a kalpvriksha or wish-fulfilling tree. Instead of limiting the use of mulberry to horticulture and sericulture it should also be promoted as a plantation species.

However, facilitating this is a policy matter and under the purview of the Forest Department. At a time when monkeys and other animals are increasingly straying towards cities in search of food due to shortage of fruits and fodder, planting mulberry will also provide food for these animals and birds,” Nautiyal added.

Mulberry thrives under various climatic conditions ranging from temperate to tropical and can be cultivated from sea level up to an elevation of 1,000 metres. Its foliage is the sole feed of the silkworm due to which the plant has been cultivated for sericulture.

The mulberry plant provides fuel wood, fodder, helps in making good manure and its wood is also used in making baskets and agricultural equipment.

The plant starts bearing fruits from a comparatively young age. For some years now since the National Research Development Corporation developed technology for making herbal tea with medicinal properties from mulberry leaves, the leaves are being used for making tea which was imported in the past.

Consumption of the mulberry fruit has various health benefits as it balances internal secretions and enhances immunity, benefits the liver, kidney and eyesight, helps treat conditions like anaemia, palpitation and insomnia.

Considering these facts, the mulberry should be propagated as a plantation species to optimise its benefits for people and the fauna.