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Barberry as an Herb
(Berberis vulgaris)
Both the berries and the bark of barberry are used in healing. Medicinal use of barberry dates back at least to the time of ancient Egypt, when it was combined with fennel seed to prevent plague.
History has it that the Barberry was first discovered by Native Americans who made a bitter brew of the yellow roots of the plant. This herb was used in small doses to treat indigestion, heartburn, ulcers and stomach upset. The use of Barberry is widely used in Native European and American healing traditions.
The herb contains the B-vitamin thiamin, vitamin C, the carotenoids beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, chromium, cobalt, and zinc.
Barberry is used in treating:
- relief of inflammation caused by bacterial or protozoal infections of ears, nose, throat, and sinuses
- relief of pain caused by yeast infections of the skin or vagina
- high blood pressure
- relief of psoriasis
- ulcers
- cholera
- stimulation of the gall bladder and liver
- treat diarrhea
- treat painful periods
For skin disorders, 10 percent of crushed dried bark or berries in ointment can be applied to the skin three times daily.
Numerous studies confirm Astragalus as an immunostimulant, and for antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and diuretic effects. It is also known to improve stamina.
Because of its strong anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, Barberry also makes good eyewash. People suffering from conjunctivitis or inflamed eyelids can benefit from the application of a compress containing Barberry.
Culinary
Puckery but less bitter than cranberries, ripe barberries can be used to make jam. Dried roots of barberry can be used in tea.
Cautions
Barberry should be taken with caution. Studies show that it may irritate the stomach and may not suit people with stomach ulcers. Although Barberry helps patients suffering from diarrhea, it is less useful when it comes to clearing the microorganisms in the stomach. Thus the disease will not be effectively treated. If Barberry is used to fight diarrhea, it should be used in combination with a standard antibiotic therapy.
DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.