barberry bark

Latin name: Berberis vulgaris bark

Other Names: common barberry

Part Used: bark and rhizome 

Affects: Urinary, immune system, digestive system

Description: Berberine is the most prominent of these alkaloids and according to laboratory studies, it has an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, sedative, and anticonvulsant effect. Berberine is possibly an immune system stimulant and helps with digestion and gastrointestinal pain. It is found in the stem bark and rhizome of the plant.

Berbamine is another alkaloid found in the herb and is thought to fight infections by stimulating the action of white blood cells. Barberry has traditionally been used as a treatment for digestive disorders, skin irritations and lesions. It has anti inflammatory and antibiotic properties and has been used in the treatment of urinary tract and bladder infections, upper respiratory infections and abnormal uterine bleeding. It may be beneficial to the cardiovascular and neural systems and may be used as a treatment for epilepsy and convulsions. It has also been used as an alternative treatment for tachycardia and hypertension.

It is commonly used to treat bacterial diarrhea and parasitic infections of the intestines. It is also used to treat fungal infections such as candida (yeast).
Additionally it may aid in digestion and prevent some symptoms of indigestion such as heartburn and nausea.
Like its cousin oregon grape, barberry is thought to stimulate blood flow to the liver and improve liver function. It is also believed to stimulate the secretion of bile.

Dosage: Whole or crushed berries that are steeped in 2/3 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes is the preferred method of administration. 2 to 4 grams of dried root or 1 to 2 tsp can also be used.