What is barberry bark? The barberry plant is any of almost 500 species of thorny evergreen or deciduous shrubs in the genus Berberis and the family Berberidaceae. The barberry shrub or bush is common in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Some kinds of Oregon grapes, which are related to barberries, are sometimes called barberries. It is also called berberis, European barberry, and trailing mahonia. The red berries, root, and bark of the barberry bush are all used in medicine. Can a barberry be eaten? The plant's red berries, or fruit, can be eaten. They are full of vitamin C and have a very sharp taste. Berberine is the most important alkaloid in the fruit, stem, and root bark. Studies in test tubes and on animals suggest that berberine can stop seizures, kill bacteria, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and make you sleepy. Berberine has also been shown to help the immune system, which makes it useful for a wide range of diseases and infections. Barberry has berberine, vitamin C, the B vitamin thiamine, the carotenoids beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, as well as the minerals chromium, cobalt, and zinc. How do I use barberry bark? A decoction made from the barberry's root and stem bark may aid with digestive problems and traveler's diarrhea. Cuts and wounds may also be topically treated with the decoction. Barberry bark benefits: Barberry, from Europe, is an herb. Medicine is made from the fruit, bark, and roots. The fruit of the European barberry is used to treat kidney, urinary tract, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract problems like heartburn, stomach cramps, constipation, lack of appetite, liver and spleen disease, bronchial and lung problems, spasms, to improve circulation, to boost the immune system, and as an extra source of vitamin C. ◉ Immune System: "Berberine," which is also found in goldenseal, is one of the most powerful plant alkaloids and is responsible for many of the benefits of barberry bark. Researchers have found that berberine boosts the immune system by making the macrophages that eat harmful microorganisms work harder. It naturally kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In particular, berberine has been shown to stop bacteria from sticking to human cells. ◉ Digestive Health: A healthy digestive system is the key to optimal health because it lets the body take in all the nutrients it needs and get rid of waste efficiently. People have long used barberry root, a "bitter herb," to support this delicate system. Bitter alkaloids in this herb stimulate and control the digestive system and help make bile, which is beneficial for the health of the liver. Berberine also works as a mild laxative, which makes barberry beneficial for people who have trouble going to the bathroom. Studies have indicated that barberry works better than antibiotics for stomach and intestine problems. This may be because it has astringent properties. It has also demonstrated the ability to eliminate bacterial diarrhea without causing any issues. ◉ Bladder/Urinary Health: The berberine in barberry root bark has a strong effect against bacteria, which is why this herb has been used for centuries to treat bacterial UTIs. New research shows that berberine is beneficial for UTIs because it stops bacteria from sticking to uroepithelial cells (the cells lining the surface of the urinary bladder). Researchers have found that barberry particularly effectively prevents E. coli from adhering to cells in the urinary tract. Barberry is a pain reliever and an anti-inflammatory, so it can also calm a sore urinary tract. The berries of the barberry plant are high in vitamin C and help you pee. The diuretic effect helps the body flush out bacteria, and the vitamin C helps the immune system fight off infections. ◉ High Blood Pressure: People with high blood pressure who take 0.9 grams of berberine every day along with the blood pressure-lowering drug amlodipine have lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than those who take amlodipine alone. Where can I buy barberry bark? Buy barberry bark from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals. Barberry bark information (at a glance): Product Name Barberry Bark. Scientific Name The plant is Berberis vulgaris L. Country of Origin Originally from Croatia, India, and the United States. Ingredient Whole. Taste & Aroma Aroma: Faint. Taste: Strong, bitter. Shelf Life & Storage Shelf life is about 5 years. The best way to store them is in a cool, dark place with a lid that keeps out air. Precautions We requested that, Before consuming spices, herbs, teas or any kind of natural products, you consult an expert qualified healthcare practitioner or herbalist. Note This product information has not been appraised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For educational purposes only.
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