Barberry Extract
Species Name: Berberis Vulgaris
Also known as: European barberry, Jaundice berry, Ambarbaris,Barberry.
What is Barberry? In Italy the Barberry is often referred to as the Holy Thorn.
This is based on the belief that it may have been part of the thorny leaf that was placed on Christ.
The uses of the Barberry for medicinal purposes goes back in history to the Indian medicines used for a variety of ailments.
The plant grows as a shrub with the roots being the primary source for medical use and it is one of the most favored medicinal herbs in Iran.
It is found to grow in Central and Southern parts of Europe, as well as the British Isles and some areas of North America.
Home Remedies Using Barberry Extract
Benefits and Uses of Barberry Extract:
The berries of this shrub are fit for human consumption and are high in vitamin C.
Although it is the roots that are used most often as the treatment source, other parts of the plant are used as well.
There has not been extensive scientific studies carried out on this herb to date.
It is known though that it contains a chemical called berberine. This chemical has been noted as being able to inhibit the growth of many types of organisms which also include fungi.
One study, which was a controlled study, indicates that berberine was capable of reducing lung injury.
Although there are very few documented studies to date, some companies are testing barberry extract in combination with other herbs for specific skin treatments.
Other uses of barberry extract are:
- Infections and skin disorders
- Urinary tract infections
- Respiratory ailments
- Yeast infections
- diarrhea
- reducing inflammation
Side Effects of Barberry Extract:
There have been some reports of nausea and vomiting when high dosages have been used.
It is not recommended to be used with infants as it may interfere with liver function which could escalate jaundice if it were present.
In addition to this, women who are pregnant should not use this herb as it has a tendency to create uterine contractions which could lead to miscarriage.
When it comes to drug interactions, because of the medicinal properties, it could have an adverse reaction with blood thinners, as it could reduce the benefits of this medication.
With antibiotics it could reduce the potency. On the other hand, with blood pressure meds, and combining it with this herb it could increase the potency of the medication and the same with water pills.
For diabetics it may lower their blood sugar and have an adverse effect with the medications being used.
