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The roots, leaves, bark, and fruit of the barberry plant have been used in traditional medicines for more than 2500 years.
It has been used historically for increasing energy and strength, reducing fever, alleviating upset stomach, promoting bowel regularity and treating diarrhea.
Barberry continues to be used widely as a natural medicine. It is commonly taken for gallbladder disease, other biliary disorders, heartburn, high blood pressure, and various other conditions.
It is considered to be a cleansing herb used traditionally to rid the body of toxins. The bark of barberry roots contains multiple active alkaloids including berberine which has blood-sugar normalizing effects.
This article will review the active constituents that make up barberry extract, how they may affect the body, health benefits, recommended dosages, possible side effects and supplements for sale.
Digestion
Blood Sugar
Heart Health- Contains the plant alkaloid berberine
- Supports healthy blood sugar levels
- Supports normal digestion, immune function & blood lipid levels
Top Barberry Products* ❯Barberry Plant Description
The barberry plant is native to Europe and the British Isles and also grows in North America.
It has been used in traditional Chinese, Indian, and Native American medicines for a variety of reasons.
Barberry is a term often used to denote a large botanical genus called Berberis. This genus has many species, however the species discussed in this article, Berberis vulgaris, is the most studied. [1]
B. vulgaris is a grey-colored, thorny shrub that grows to about 9 feet in height. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) states that the root, berries and bark are all used to make medicines. [1]
According to the UMM, “Bright yellow flowers bloom between the months of April and June and become dark, drooping bunches of red berries in the fall.” [1]
Like goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), barberry contains berberine, an alkaloid that has been observed to inhibit bacterial growth and have anti-inflammatory effects in in-vitro studies. [1]
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that B. vulgaris is commonly called European barberry.
Some other names for this herbaceous perennial shrub include Agracejo, Barberry, Berbis, Épine-Vinette, Espino Cambrón, Jaundice Berry, Mountain Grape, Pipperidge, Piprage, Sauerdorn, Sow Berry, and Vinettier. [3]
The root and bark of this plant taste bitter. However, the fruits (berries) are edible and in addition to medicinal uses are used in juices, jams, jellies, and other foods. The fruit is also used to make wine. [2, 3]
Most of what is known about how barberry works is based on in-vitro (cultured cell) and animal studies. Some recent human research suggests a range of possible preventive and curative effects.
However, clinical studies are limited at this time and more research is currently being done to determine how this compound works in humans. [1, 2]
How Does Barberry Extract Work?
Berberine is the constituent of barberry that is of most interest to researchers.
According to PubChem, berberine is “an alkaloid found in many plants that is relatively toxic parenterally, but has been used orally for various parasitic and fungal infections and as antidiarrheal.” [4]
According to the UMM, barberry aqueous extract has been observed to have effects on the cardiovascular and neurological systems.
Researchers are interested in how it might help people with hypertension (high blood pressure), tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), and certain neuronal disorders, like convulsions and epilepsy. [1]
Cell studies suggest that berberine has antioxidant properties that help cells to prevent and repair free radical damage. [1]
It has also been observed in in-vitro studies to have antineoplastic effects (inhibit or halt the growth of tumors). Research has shown positive effects against leukemia, sarcomas, and hepatomas, as well as testicular, lung, and brain cancer tumor cells. [3]
The UMM states that in-vitro berberine has demonstrated antimicrobial (destroys pathogenic germs), anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling and redness), hypotensive (lowers blood glucose levels), immunostimulating, anticonvulsant, and sedative effects. [1]
Berberine has been observed in limited clinical research to have gastrointestinal effects in humans, specifically acting to relax smooth muscle tissue inside the intestines and delay transit time.
It is hypothesized that this might be helpful for improving digestion, as well as improving various gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhea. [1]
In a 2015 literature review, researchers from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences state that barberry contains bioactive compounds other than berberine. These include oxycontin, palmatine, bervulcine, berbamine, columbamine, jatrorrhizine, coptisine, and berbamine. [5]
This plant also contains, “organic acids such as chelidonic acid, citric acid, malic acid, resin, tannin, pectinic, and mucilagic substances.” [5]
These compounds are believed to have numerous mechanisms of action in the human body including antioxidant, hypolipidemic (decreasing blood fats), hypoglycemic (reducing blood glucose levels), and hepatoprotective (liver-protective) effects. [5]
According to this research review, barberry has been observed to have antiobesity, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, and hypoglycemic. It has been shown in animal and human studies to work by:
- Improving liver enzyme function
- Increasing insulin sensitivity
- Inhibiting adipogenesis (maturation of fat cells)
- Inhibiting alpha glucosidase
- Promoting secretion of thyroid hormones
- Reducing serum cholesterol and triglycerides density [5]
The researchers report that, “This plant can be considered as a drug candidate for the prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, thyroid disorders and liver disease.” [5]
However, more research is still needed to better understand these effects and to determine therapeutic efficacy.
Common Uses for Barberry Extract
Medicinal usage of barberry dates to the Middle Ages. The ancient Egyptians used it together with fennel seeds for treating fevers.
In India it has been used for diarrhea while it was prescribed as a sedative in Iran. [5]
In Russia and northern and western Europe, extracts have been used for bladder, gallbladder, and liver disorders, rheumatism, and uterine bleeding. [5]
All parts of barberry are used medicinally, but root and leaf preparations are most common.
The NMCD reports that people take barberry fruit extracts for a variety of uses including:
- Acne
- As a stimulant for circulation
- As a supplemental source of vitamin C
- Bronchial and lung discomforts
- Constipation
- Diabetes
- Heartburn
- Kidney and urinary tract disorders
- Lack of appetite
- Liver and spleen disease
- Preventing infection
- Spasms
- Stomach cramps [3]
Barberry root bark is used for arthritis, liver dysfunction, jaundice, diarrhea, gallbladder disease, indigestion, hemorrhoids and gout.
It is also used for rheumatism, leishmaniasis, splenopathy, mid and low back pain, renal and urinary tract diseases, and malaria. [3]
According to the NMCD, the bark and roots are also used to address gastrointestinal tract complaints, the circulatory system, urogenital tract and respiratory tract problems.
It has also been used as an antipyretic, meaning it is used to suppress or reduce fever. It has further been used for narcotic withdrawal and as a “blood purifier” or tonic. [3]
In the pharmaceutical industry, barberry fruit syrup is used for masking unpleasant tastes and making certain medications palatable. [3]
Barberry Extract Health Benefits
According to Drugs.com, there are more than three dozen medicinal uses listed for barberry including cancer, cholera, and hypertension. [4]
The UMM notes that it has been effective for treating infection, inflammation, and diarrhea some clinical research studies. [1]
Supplements have been used to reduce swelling, redness, and infection.
UMM states, “Barberry is used to ease inflammation and infection of the urinary (bladder and urinary tract infections), gastrointestinal, and respiratory tracts (sore throat, nasal congestion, sinusitis, bronchitis), as well as candida (yeast) infections of the skin or vagina.” [1]
Research shows antimicrobial effects and delayed intestinal transit time. It is hypothesized that barberry may benefit conditions including traveler’s diarrhea, diarrhea caused by contaminated foods, and dysentery with bloody diarrhea. [1, 3]
According to the UMM, some studies suggest that it may ameliorate symptoms faster than conventional antibiotics. This may be linked to its astringent properties. However, antibiotics are still believed to be more effective at killing pathogenic bacteria within the intestinal tract. [1]
Some preliminary clinical research has shown beneficial dermatological effects when used topically for burns. [3]
A limited human trial found that oral barberry administration reduced the number of acne lesions and the severity of lesions significantly, compared to no significant changes seen in placebo patients. [7]
Barberry has been used for other dermatological conditions including psoriasis, eczema, and contact dermatitis. Clinical research is still needed to determine efficacy for these conditions. [1]
Preliminary human research suggests that brushing teeth three times daily for three weeks with barberry extract gel containing 1% berberine has similar effects to Colgate toothpaste for controlling dental plaque. [3]
This treatment also reduced gingival index, a marker for developing gingivitis. More research is necessary to rate this supplement’s effectiveness for improving dental health. [3]
A research review published in 2017 by the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences suggests that berberine acts as a protective agent against natural and manmade toxins. [6]
According to the authors of this review, “Berberine could ameliorate toxicity of chemical toxins in brain, heart, kidney, liver and lung in part through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-?B (NF-?B) signaling pathways.” [6]
Most of the studies examined in this literature review involved in-vitro and animal research. Clinical trials are needed to determine if these effects will be present in humans as well.
Barberry is regulated as a dietary supplement,and the FDA has not approved it as a drug to prevent or treat any medical conditions.
It s recommended that you seek advice from your doctor if you are considering using barberry supplements. Your doctor will be able to help determine if this supplement is right for your needs.
Barberry Extract Supplements
The UMM states that barberry supplements are available as fresh and dried herb, liquid extract, dry extract, tincture, powder, capsule, tablets, cream, ointment, and teas. [1]
Some supplements are complete (full spectrum) barberry supplements from fruit, bark or root sources, while others contain berberine extracts alone. While berberine is the primary active constituent in the plant, there are various other bioactive compounds present as well.
There may be a difference in the effects of supplements that are processed in different ways and that contain different concentrations of alkaloids from this plant. It is recommended that you research which type of supplement is best for your needs.
The NMCD reports there are currently over 600 dietary supplements that contain barberry on the market. It is important to read labels closely to tell which plant parts are used and in what amounts. [3]
When possible, choose non-GMO, organic supplements that are certified to be free of toxic contaminants like heavy metals or pharmaceutical residue.
It is recommended to store barberry supplements in airtight, dark-colored containers. Place them in low-lit locations at room temperature to help maintain freshness.
Barberry Dosages
The recommended dosage will depend on a variety of factors including age, sex, weight, personal physiology, and the reason for taking the supplement. It is advised to speak with your doctor to determine the best dosage for your needs.
Barberry is an herbal supplement, not a pharmaceutical drug. The US Food and Drug Administration has not issued standard dosage guidelines for this product.
The NMCD reports that the following adult oral doses have been used traditionally:
- 20-40 drops 1:10 root bark tincture daily for general health
- 250-500 mg dry extract, 3X daily for general health
- 10% extract ointment, 3X daily for skin disorders [3]
According to NMCD, herbal experts say that this plant extract is generally well tolerated when taking dosages within the suggested range of 1.5 to 3 grams per day. However, there is limited research available to evaluate the safety of this plant as most studies have involved berberine administration as opposed to the whole herb. [3]
In traditional medicine, crushed barberry fruit tea has been used for sore throats, bronchitis, urinary bladder infections, and Candida (yeast) infections. Barberry root tea is not generally recommended for these purposes. [3]
You can make a cup of this tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of crushed berries in 6 ounces of boiled water. Do not boil the berries; steep them. Wait 10-15 minutes then strain and drink. [3]
Some people add lemon, honey, mint, and other flavoring agents to enhance palatability as the tea can be bitter on its own.
A 200 mg aqueous extract made of dried fruit has been used three times daily for 4 weeks in a clinical trial on acne. [3]
Barberry root and bark extract gel, containing 1% berberine, has been used in children for dental plaque and gingivitis. In one study, the gel was applied for 3 minutes, 3 times daily, over a 3-week period. [3]
The NMCD states, “There is a lack of available information from clinical trials regarding the standardization of barberry; however, standardized extracts containing 5-10% alkaloids (berberine) are the most common.” [3]
Barberry Side Effects
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates barberry fruit as Likely Safe in common dietary amounts. [3]
The NMCD states that there is currently insufficient research available to provide a safety rating when used in medicinal amounts.
Topical use has been rated as Possibly Safe. In research a cream containing 5% barberry has been used for 7 days without side effects. [3]
The NMCD rates barberry as Likely Unsafe for oral use in newborn infants. The berberine constituent can cause brain damage in premature infants, especially if they are jaundiced (excessive bilirubin). [2]
The NMCD also rates this supplement as Likely Unsafe during pregnancy and lactation. Berberine and other constituents may pass through the placenta into an unborn fetus, and may also pass through breast milk to babies.
These compounds are believed to be harmful to unborn children as well as infants. [2]
Barberry is generally well tolerated in most adults. Herbalists have reported that when taken at doses below 3 grams per day it is well tolerated and typically is not associated with side effects. [3]
Some side effects have been reported in some research studies, although this is not common. In some cases, berberine has been reported to cause:
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Hypotension
- Hypertension
- Bradycardia
- Leukopenia
- Respiratory Failure
- Paresthesias [3]
Topical application of barberry may cause itching, redness, or burning skin in some users, but these adverse reactions are not typical. According to one study, it has been used topically for up to 20 days without any reports of negative effects. [3]
In rare cases, poisoning symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, daze, stupor, and lethargy may occur. However, this is uncommon and normally only seen with very high dosages. [2]
It is best to discuss the usage, safety, and possible side effects of barberry supplements with your doctor before to take this product.
Drug and Supplement Interactions
Barberry supplements might interact with certain health conditions, drugs, herbs, supplements and laboratory tests. [3]
Talk to your doctor first before using this supplement if you have:
- Any bleeding disorders
- Diabetes
- Hypotension (low blood pressure) [3]
In theory, barberry might increase levels of bilirubin (a pigment found in bile that comes from hemoglobin breakdown). These supplements might affect readings on lab tests that measure bilirubin. [3]
Seek medical advice before using this supplement along with antidiabetes drugs, herbs, or supplements. This could cause blood glucose levels to drop too low. [3]
Some drugs used to help manage diabetes symptoms include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, metformin (Glucophage), pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), and tolbutamide (Orinase). [3]
Some herbs and supplements that have blood glucose lowering potential include alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon, chromium, devil’s claw, fenugreek, garlic, guar gum, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, psyllium, and Siberian ginseng. [3]
Barberry supplements might also interact with blood-pressure lowering medications and herbs, possibly causing blood pressure to drop too low. [3]
Some antihypertensive drugs include nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan), diltiazem (Cardizem), isradipine (DynaCirc), felodipine (Plendil), amlodipine (Norvasc). [3]
Some herbs that might increase the effects of this plant extract on blood pressure include andrographis, casein peptides, cat’s claw, coenzyme Q-10, fish oil, L-arginine, lycium, stinging nettle, and theanine. [3]
Barberry supplements might also interact with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, CNS depressants, sedatives, cyclosporine, anticholinergic drugs, cytochrome P450 3A4 substrates, and medications used for treating Alzheimer’s disease, and glaucoma. [3]
It is recommended that you stop using barberry at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery. [3]
If you are interested in taking a barberry supplement, then it is recommended that you speak with your doctor to determine whether this supplement is appropriate for you.
- University of Maryland Medical Center, Barberry, Accessed Spet 27, 2017
- Barberry, Accessed Sept 27, 2017
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, Barberry Professional Monograph, Accessed Sept 27, 2017
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Database; CID=2353, Accessed Oct 5, 2017
- Zarei A, et al. "A Quick Overview on Some Aspects of Endocrinological and Therapeutic Effects of Berberis Vulgaris L." Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine 5.6 (2015): 485–497. Print.
- Mohammadzadeh N, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H, Berberis vulgaris and its constituent berberine as antidotes and protective agents against natural or chemical toxicities. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2017 May;20(5):538-551. doi: 10.22038/IJBMS.2017.8678.
- Fouladi RF. Aqueous extract of dried fruit of Berberis vulgaris L. in acne vulgaris, a clinical trial. J Diet Suppl. 2012 Dec;9(4):253-61.
Article last updated on: June 26th, 2018 by Nootriment