Family: Berberidaceae.

Synonyms: European Barberry, Jaundice Berry, Pepperidge, Pepperidge Bush, Sowberry, Barberry, Berberis, Daruharidra, Daruhaldi and Kingor.

Part Used: Bark of root and stem. Gather the root in spring or fall, and use only ripe berries.

Medicinal Action and Uses

Cholagogue, hepatic, anti-emetic, bitter, laxative, diuretic, antibilious, refrigerant, stomachic, antiperiodic, alterative and antipyretic.

Used for the treatment as an antibiotic, immune stimulant, for treating pinkeye and high blood pressure.

One study concluded that the herb may shrink some tumors. Another study revealed that it has anti-inflammatory properties, useful for treating arthritis. More work is needed in this case.

Indications

Barberry is one of the best remedies for correcting liver function and promoting the flow of bile. It is indicated when there is an inflammation of the gall-bladder or in the presence of gall stones. When jaundice occurs due to a congested state of the liver, Barberry is also indicated. As a bitter tonic with mild laxative effects, Barberry is used by weak or debilitated people to strengthen and cleanse the system. The herb is believed to have the ability to reduce an enlarged spleen. It also acts against malaria.

Herbalists recommend barberry as a stimulating tonic hepatic: influences the mucosa generally, removing mucoid accumulations and controlling excess secretion. Improves appetite, digestion and assimilation. Indicated for gouty constitutions.

Barberry much like Hydrastis and could be employed for many of the uses of that scarce and high-priced drug. Barberry tends to dilate the blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure. A teaspoon of the root will purge the bowels, or use an infusion of the berries with wine for the same purpose. A decoction of either berries or root bark makes a good mouthwash or gargle for mouth and throat irritations. The fresh juice of the fruit is also said to strengthen the gums and relieve pyorrhea when brushed on or applied directly to the gums.

Ayurvedic Applications

For bile and urinary conditions, Pitta detoxification, and congestion of the abdominal and pelvic cavities; rheumatism, scarlet fever, brain disorders, heat, thirst, nausea; small amounts - tonic; large doses - purgative; excellent herb for jaundice, during pregnancy, mild laxative, periodic neuralgia, fevers, skin diseases, vomiting in pregnancy; fruit-mild laxative/purgative for children, fevers, blood purifier, malaria, gastric and duodenal ulcers; sores, jaundice, enlarged liver and spleen, and regulates liver functioning, diabetes and toxins; destroys toxins, reduces body fat (when used with turmeric); renal calculi, abdominal and pelvic congestion; G.I. stimulant, reduces blood pressure.