Barberry, Dried
(also referred to as...)
European or Common Barberry, (Oregon Grape)
Latin Name: Berberis vulgaris
Family: Berberidaceae
Description
Barberry is another very useful plant. It is native to Europe and East Asia, but has been naturalized everywhere.
Once used as a remedy for coughing horses it is now used extensively for many ailments. Barberry contains berberis alkaloids. These immunostimulating properties make this herb ideal for treating infection.
Oregon grape is similar to barberry -- where barberry grows on the East Coast, Oregon grape grows on the West Coast.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Barberry bark and leaves are an excellent corrector of liver secretions. It regulates digestion, corrects an inflamed spleen, and removes any obstructions from the intestinal tract and stomach.
Barberry's use as a liver tonic is due to an alkaloid found in the bark of the root called Berberine. This substance promotesthe secretion of bile and has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Berberine also dilates the blood vessels therefore being helpful in lowering high blood pressure.
This herb is also useful as a mild laxative, bringing about a gentle purge. It is very useful in chronic constipation and has been used with great results in jaundice.
Barberry contains anti-inflammatory, astringent, anticonvulsant, immunostimulant, and uterotonic properties and can be very serviceable in the treatments of hemmorhaging, diarrhea, cholera, arthritis, and rheumatism.
Source
Root bark
Preparations
Decoction: Bring 1 teaspoon to a boil with 1 1/2 cups water, and simmered for 10 minutes. This should be taken 2 to 3 times a day in teacup doses. Due to the bitterness of the plant it is usually preferred in a tincture form.
Infusion: Add 1 teaspoon to 1 cup boiling water and infuse for 5 to 10 minutes.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Barberry should never be used during pregnancy, as the alkaloid Berberine is stimulating to the uterus.
No toxicity has ever been reported.
Ailment / Situation Listing
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