Barberry

Also Known As: Jaundice-Berry, Sowberry, Berberis, Pipperidge Bush, Sour Spine, and Piprage

Botanical Name: Berberis Vulgaris

Family Name: Berberidaceae

Native To: Central and Southern Europe, Iran, Turkey, and Caucasus

Parts To Use: Root, Bark, Fruit, and Leaves

How It’s Used: Contains an active compound known as berberine, which acts as an antioxidant and may help manage conditions like diabetes, fight dental infections, and treat acne. Berberine is also used to treat digestive issues, infections, and skin conditions. Barberry is available in tea, tincture, capsule, fluid extracts, dried herb, and tablet forms, as well as a topical ointment.

Harvesting: Harvest root bark in the spring or fall and the tree bark in the fall and early winter months when the sap is moving. Peel only one side of the tree or branch to separate bark. If using the root, expose and collect the desired amount. Dry in warm place. After drying is complete, store in paper bags, cardboard or burlap. Never store dried roots, herb or bark in plastic as it will mold.

Barberry, a plant with a rich history of medicinal use, has been utilized worldwide for millennia. The ancient Egyptians combined it with fennel seed to prevent plagues, while in India, it was a remedy for dysentery. Native Americans introduced it as a medicinal plant to European settlers, who found it beneficial for liver and gallbladder issues. Russian practitioners employed it for its anti-inflammatory properties, to manage high blood pressure, and to treat uterine bleeding. A 2019 scientific study highlighted barberry’s potential in healthcare, noting its effectiveness as an analgesic and in treating fever, gastrointestinal disturbances, and liver disorders, as well as in preventing various ailments.

Barberry belongs to the Berberis genus and the Berberidaceae family, encompassing around 500 species of thorny shrubs, both evergreen and deciduous. Originating from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, barberry has acclimated to North America, thriving in diverse soil conditions and climates. Typically reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet and widths of 4 to 7 feet, barberry displays vibrant green leaves in summer, which transition to a range of autumnal hues. Its yellow spring flowers are subtle compared to the striking red berries that appear in the fall. Barberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and is notable for its adaptability to urban environments and low maintenance needs.

Traditionally, barberry has been a go-to remedy for various gastrointestinal issues, including constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, heartburn, and appetite loss. Its bile-stimulating properties made it popular for treating liver and gallbladder conditions. The plant has also been linked to heart health, specifically in improving atrial fibrillation by extending the effective refractory period. Externally, it has been used to alleviate skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and minor wounds. Barberry is rich in berberine, vitamin C, thiamine, carotenoids (including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin), and minerals like chromium, cobalt, and zinc, found mostly in its root, rhizome, and stem bark.

Available in various forms such as tea, tincture, capsules, fluid extracts, dried herb, tablets, and topical ointments, barberry should be used cautiously. Consulting a healthcare provider before using barberry is essential, especially for individuals on medication like blood thinners, antihypertensives, or diabetes treatments, due to potential interactions that could alter drug effectiveness.