Barberry

Herbal Supplements

Susan Spinasanta
Medical Writer
SpineUniverse
Desert Hot Springs, CA

The Basics

Barberry is an herb from a shrub that produces dark red berries in the fall. These berries are similar to cranberries. The bark and stems are also used medicinally to decrease heart rate, lower blood pressure, slow breathing, reduce bronchial congestion (mucus), reduce fever and swelling, and to treat arthritis and psoriasis (ointment form).

The bark of a barberry plant contains alkaloids considered to be antibiotic by some herbalists and are used to stimulate the body's immune system. Due to increasing resistance to antibiotics and the effects of prolonged use (i.e. destruction of friendly intestinal bacteria), barberry is given as a break from conventional antibiotic treatment.

Sources

Barberry is available in the following forms: tea, capsules (powder), fluid extracts, tinctures, and topical ointment.

Guidelines and Cautions

Depending upon the type of barberry taken (i.e. tea, extract), follow package directions. Do not take barberry for more than seven days.

Do not substitute barberry for your doctor's prescription for antibiotics. Some infections are life threatening and require conventional antibiotic treatment.

Barberry may irritate the stomach. In some cases, barberry may interfere with the absorption of the B Vitamins.

This herb should not be taken during pregnancy or while nursing.

As with any vitamin, herb, or supplement - always consult a medical professional prior to incorporating these substances into your diet.

George D. Picetti, III, MD



In reviewing the above supplements several observations were noted. First of all there are no scientific papers that review the efficacy of these supplements in refereed journals. Therefore we are not able to comment on how effective they are on a scientific level. These supplements are not held to the same standards as other medications, and thus the dose and concentration may differ among different brands or companies. Although many people claim to have good results from taking these and other supplements, it is always best to discuss this with your doctor before taking these supplements. If you are taking any supplement and are scheduled for surgery, it is imperative that you tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist. Some of these supplements can cause significant changes in your body’s chemical functions, such as slowing blood clot formation, which can be a serious problem during surgery.

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