Barberry is known by the scientific name: “berberis vulgaris”. This plant is part of the family of berberidaceae and of the genus berberis. Its appellation is very variable: barberry, thorn crest, berberis vulgaris and small vine. Barberry can reach a height between 1.5 and 3 m and can last up to 50 years. Almost all of this shrub has the alkaloids magnoflorines and palmatines. The golden yellow color of the root and stem section is due to the berberine content. The barberry comes from Europe, but it is also found in North America. Iranians are the biggest producers/consumers of its dried berries.
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Barberry can be used in different aspects in herbal medicine
The phytotherapeutic uses of barberry are multiple. Infusion, tablet, herbal tea, powder, capsule and decoction. the barberry tea is also better for ensuring the proper functioning of the body. Whichever method is used, it only causes positive effects on health and well-being.
Mode of operation of barberry
This plant has a long list of properties: anti-cholinergic, hypotensive, antibacterial, stomachic, astringent, laxative, vermifuge, antipyretic, immunostimulant, choleretic, choleretic, berbamine, antiamoebic, antihistamine and antifungal. It can effectively moderate intestinal disorders and diabetes. Barberry facilitates the care and healing of wounds. This medicinal shrub treats gallbladder disorders, cholera, gallstones, ophthalmia and dysentery. It would also be a real ally in the fight against cancers and skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema.
Proportion and Alternative Uses of Barberry
The barberry fruit do not have toxin. So they can be added to all your culinary preparations such as jams, jellies, appetizers, or drinks. With a more or less tangy flavor, its green berries can surely give flavor to your spicy sauces. Its red berries, on the other hand, give a pleasant color to the rice.
The assembly of barberry with other ingredients (green anise and star anise) in equal quantity (a pinch of each) produces an exceptional digestive herbal tea. In the 18th century, its seeds were one of the components of the maritime pharmacopoeia, diaprun solution, and diascordium. The barberry’s clustered flowers are very popular with bees, while its branches serve as excellent shelter for birds.
This plant has a robust yellow wood, which plays its role in dyeing and marquetry. It can also be used in the world of decoration.
What are the precautions for use?
Barberry is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consuming too many of its fruits sometimes causes swallowing problems. This plant should also not be near cereals because it is an element that promotes wheat rust. A therapeutic consultation is always recommended so as not to be mistaken in doses.
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