Common Name Standardized: barberryOther: European barberry Botanical Name Berberis vulgaris L.Plant Family: Berberidaceae Overview IntroductionThe barberry is a tall shrub with gray, thorny branches. Brightyellow flowers bloom in the late spring become dark, drooping bunches ofred berries in the fall. Puckery but less bitter than cranberries, ripebarberries can be used to make jam. Both the berries and the bark areused in healing. Medicinal use of barberry dates back at least to thetime of ancient Egypt, when it was combined with fennel seed to preventplague. In Europe and the US, Barberry has been used as a bitter tonic,antipyretic, and antihemorrhagic. It has also been used in China in thesame fashion, but also for its antimalarial qualities.ConstituentsThe barberry contains its namesake chemical berberine, also found incoptis, goldenseal, Oregon grape root, and turmeric. The herb alsocontains the B-vitamin thiamine, vitamin C, the carotenoidsbeta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, chromium, cobalt, and zinc.Parts UsedThe whole root, aerial parts and sometimes the fruiting body.Typical PreparationsThe whole herb barberry is available in capsules, fluid extracts,tinctures, and ointments. Dried roots of barberry can also be used intea. Precautions Specific: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.,RcmdId ViewItemDescV4,RlogId p4%60bo7%60jtb9%3Fuk.rp*05e54c%3E-15916835070-0x11a-->