Barberry's therapeutic uses
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is a natural plant traditionally used for various therapeutic purposes. Its medicinal parts include the root, stem, bark, and fruit. Historically, it has been utilized to address digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, and heartburn, primarily by promoting bile flow. Topical applications of barberry have also been recommended for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, as well as for the treatment of minor wounds.
The active compound in barberry, berberine, possesses antimicrobial properties and has shown promise for heart-related conditions, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure in scientific studies. Preliminary research indicates potential benefits for managing diabetes and symptoms related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), with some studies reporting improved outcomes for women with this condition. However, while there is an interest in barberry's therapeutic applications, further scientific investigation is necessary to substantiate these claims and ensure safety, particularly for specific populations, including pregnant women and those with liver disease. Overall, barberry represents a topic of interest within herbal medicine, inviting further exploration into its efficacy and safety in modern health practices.
Barberry's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Allergies, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, eczema, heartburn, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, psoriasis, minor wounds, urinary tract infection, diabetes support, liver and gallbladder health, immune system support, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Overview
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is a bush that grows wild in Europe and North America. It is closely related to Oregon grape (B. aquifolium). The root, stem, bark, and fruit of barberry are all used medicinally. Barberry was traditionally used as a treatment for digestive problems, including constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia (stomach upset), heartburn, and loss of appetite. It was said to work by increasing the flow of bile, and on this basis, it has also been used for liver and gallbladder problems. Topical preparations of barberry have been recommended for treating eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds. Barberry has several other uses, although more scientific research is necessary.
Therapeutic Dosages
Barberry is traditionally used at a dose of 2 grams three times daily or an equivalent amount in extract form. For treating psoriasis and other skin conditions, barberry is used as a 10 percent cream, applied to the skin three times daily.
Therapeutic Uses
Berberine is the bioactive compound found in the barberry plants. It inhibits the growth of many microorganisms, including fungi, protozoa, and bacteria. In one placebo-controlled study, berberine effectively reduced lung injury among persons with lung cancer receiving radiation therapy.
Berberine has been proposed as a topical antiseptic for use in minor wounds and vaginal infections. Berberine has also shown potential as a treatment for various heart-related conditions, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure, and for preventing heart arrhythmias. However, it is unclear whether barberry provides enough berberine to produce any potential benefits.
Topical formulations of the related plant Oregon grape have shown some promise for psoriasis, and barberry also has been marketed for this condition. However, there is no direct evidence that it works. Others suggested therapeutic uses for Barberry include managing urinary tract infections, supporting live and gallbladder function, boosting the immune system, fighting infections, and treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Scientific Evidence
There were emerging medically established uses of barberry as human clinical trials became more prevalent in the twenty-first century. Preliminary evidence hinted that barberry root extracts may have anti-inflammatory, fever-reducing, and analgesic (pain-reducing) effects and antihypertensive and antihistaminic properties. A human clinical study of dried barberry fruit extract found that supplementation lowered blood sugar, pointing to its ability to help manage diabetes. Further human clinical studies also pointed out barberry’s use in preventing metabolic syndrome. Human studies have also shown success in the use of barberry in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Participants in multiple studies reported relief of symptoms related to the hormonal disorder and, in one study, had a 25 percent increased chance of pregnancy when supplementing with barberry. Finally, one study determined barberry's use in promoting dental health.
Barberry, like goldenseal and Oregon grape, contains the chemical berberine. Berberine is the one of the active ingredients in barberry that gives it therapeutic properties. Many studies of purified berberine have been conducted that might also apply to barberry.
Safety Issues
One study suggests that topical use of berberine could cause photosensitivity or an increased tendency to react to sun exposure. Berberine-containing herbs should not be used by pregnant women because they may increase levels of bilirubin, potentially damaging the fetus and possibly causing genetic damage. Persons who already have elevated levels of bilirubin (jaundice) or any other form of liver disease should also avoid berberine-containing herbs.
Safety for young children and nursing women has not been established. One study hinted that berberine may decrease the efficacy of the drug tetracycline.
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