Description

Common name: Barberry

Latin name: Berberis vulgaris

Parts used: Root and or stem bark

Traditional use: Barberry is a traditional bitter tonic that helps support the liver functions and cleanse a congested system. Barberry is a rich natural source of berberine. Berberine is bright yellow and somewhat bitter, and has long been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects.

Constituents: The root bark is a rich source of the alkaloid berberine – about 6%. Berberine, universally present in rhizomes of Berberis species.

Actions: The roots are astringent and antiseptic. The flowers and the stem bark are anti-rheumatic. Berberine has also shown anti-tumour activity.

Medicinal use: Used nowadays as a tonic to the gallbladder to improve the flow of bile and ameliorate conditions such as gallbladder pain, gallstones and jaundice.

Cautions: Bark in doses of 4 mg or more; stupor, nosebleeds, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney irritation. Contraindicated during pregnancy as abortion risk.

Dosage & forms: Liquid root extract is the most convenient way to use Barberry. Must be used long term to see benefits. Barberry root bark can be used in teas, tinctures, or incorporated in creams and lotions for external use.