Barberry : Berberis, commonly known as barberry, is a large genus of deciduous and evergreen shrubs from 1–5 m tall, found throughout temperate and subtropical regions of the world. Species diversity is greatest in South America and Asia; Europe, Africa and North America have native species as well.
Berberis vulgaris, also known as common barberry, European barberry or simply barberry, is a shrub in the genus Berberis. It produces edible but sharply acidic berries, which people in many countries eat as a tart and refreshing fruit.
Barberry Bush : Barberry bushes are hardy deciduous plants commonly used in gardens or as foundation bushes due to their low maintenance requirements and adaptability. Barberries are also frequently used as a hedge because of their uniform growth pattern. There are over 400 species of barberry plants. Many barberries have sharp thorns; however, some are without. Be sure to consider this when growing barberry bushes, especially if you have small children. Also, some types of barberry may become invasive in some regions. Be sure to check into this beforehand.
Barberry Uses and Health Benefits : Barberry has a long history of use as a folk remedy for digestive disorders, infection, indigestion, gallbladder disease and heartburn.
The active ingredients in barberry are thought to be the isoquinoline alkaloids, particularly berberine. These alkaloids are found in the root, rhizome and stem bark of the barberry plant. Other herbs that contain berberine are goldenseal (which has a higher concentration of berberine than barberry), the Chinese herb Coptis and Oregon grape.
Barberry is available in tea, tincture, capsule, dried herb, and tablet forms. Other names include Berberis vulgaris, mountain grape, Pepperidge, berberry, common grape
Uses for Barberry
1) Diarrhea
Research studies indicate that the alkaloid berberine may fight bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections.
Another alkaloid in barberry, called berberine, is believed to help fight infections by stimulating white blood cells called macrophages.
In alternative medicine, barberry is used mainly for bacterial diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, intestinal parasitic infections and chronic candidiasis.
Barberry capsules are usually recommended, especially those standardized to contain 5 to 12% isoquinoline alkaloids.
2) Indigestion
When using barberry for indigestion, alternative practitioner s recommend a liquid form, such as a liquid extract or tea, because the bitter taste is thought to help its medicinal action. It's usually taken 15 to 20 minutes before a meal.
3) Liver and Gallbladder Conditions
Barberry is thought to promote the secretion and flow of bile and be a mild laxative. Although it's sometimes promoted as a herbal remedy for gallstones, it shouldn't be used for this condition unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
4) Urinary Tract Infections
One study suggested that berberine may be active against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Some sources say that the berry portion of barberry is more effective at combatting urinary tract infections than the root.
Caveats
Barberry may cause diarrhea, especially in larger amounts. Barberry may lower blood pressure.
An overdose of barberry can result in nosebleeds, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion and kidney irritation. Symptoms of kidney problems are bloody urine, pain when urinating, low back or stomach pain, and fever. Seek medical attention immediately.
Barberry should not be used to replace conventional treatment. In particular, it shouldn't be used as a home remedy for urinary tract infections. If the bacteria aren't fully eradicated, the infection may spread to the kidneys, even though symptoms such as difficult or painful urination may disappear.
Pregnant women should not use barberry, because it may stimulate uterine contractions and cause miscarriage. The safety of barberry in nursing women (and children) is unknown so it should be avoided.
Berberine may alter the way prescription drugs are metabolized in the body, although there's limited information about specific interactions. For example, one study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology found that berberine elevated the amount of the drug cyclosporin A in kidney transplant patients.
Keep in mind that supplements haven't been tested for safety and dietary supplements are largely unregulated. In some cases, the product may deliver doses that differ from the specified amount for each herb. In other cases, the product may be contaminated with other substances such as metals. Also, the safety of supplements in those with medical conditions or who are taking medications has not been established.
Barberry Varieties : Crimson Pygmy Barberry, 'Dart's Red Lady' Barberry, Golden Barberry, 'Helmond Pillar' Barberry, 'Mission Canyon' Oregon Grape, Nevin's Barberry
Barberry Root : Barberry has a long history of use as a folk remedy for digestive disorders, infection, indigestion, gallbladder disease and heartburn. ... These alkaloids are found in the root, rhizome and stem bark of the barberry plant.
