Botanical Overview
Berberis vulgaris, commonly known as barberry or European barberry, belongs to the Berberidaceae family. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to North America. The parts used medicinally include the root, root bark, stem bark, fruit, and leaf.
Energetics
Berberis vulgaris is characterized by a cooling temperature and drying moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter, astringent, and sour flavors. It is tonifying in nature and primarily affects the qi.
Primary Actions
- Choleretic
- Cholagogue
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Hepatoprotective
- Astringent
- Bitter
Indications
Western
Symptoms treated include dyspepsia, indigestion, diarrhea, liver and gallbladder disorders, fever, and infections.
Syndromes
- Liver qi stagnation
- Hepatitis
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Jaundice
TCM
No traditional Chinese Medicine indications documented.
Ayurveda
No traditional Ayurveda indications documented.
Unani
No traditional Unani indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include alkaloids such as berberine, tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils which contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times per day
- Decoction of root bark, 2-4 g 1-2 times per day
- Fruit infusion, 5-10 g 1-2 times per day
Safety & Contraindications
Berberis vulgaris should be used with caution during pregnancy due to potential uterotonic effects and is contraindicated. Caution is also advised during breastfeeding and in individuals with hypotension. Potential interactions exist with antihypertensive and antidiabetic medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers identified in reliable sources.
Selected References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph: “Berberis vulgaris L., cortex” (2017)
- Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database: “Berberis vulgaris (Barberry)” by Ken Fern
- PubMed Article: “Pharmacological properties of Berberis vulgaris and its active constituent berberine” by Akbarzadeh M et al. (2018)