Barberry | Berberis vulgaris
Traditionally used for digestive and liver health, Barberry supports blood sugar balance, weight management, and cardiovascular function. It reduces infections, protects the liver, and aids in cholesterol and bile flow.
Benefits & Uses
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the digestive tract, liver, and cardiovascular system.
Hypoglycemic: Helps regulate blood sugar, supporting weight management and metabolic health.
Cardioprotective: Improves endothelial function and supports healthy blood vessels.
Antilipidemic: Helps manage cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing risk of atherosclerosis.
Antimicrobial: Effective against bacterial enteritis and gut infections.
Cholagogue: Promotes bile flow, aiding digestion and detoxification.
Astringent: Tightens tissues, reducing diarrhea and improving gut health.
Form & Dosage
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Tea/Decoction: Simmer dried root bark for 10–15 minutes; drink up to 2 cups daily.
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Tincture: 2–4 mL up to 3 times daily.
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Capsules/Tablets: Follow manufacturer’s dosage for powdered bark or extract.
Parts Used
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Root, flowers, and fruit (berries).
Precautions
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Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid use; safety not established.
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Medication interactions: May interact with anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, and drugs processed by the liver.
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Overuse: Can cause nausea or digestive upset in high doses.
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Children: Not recommended without professional supervision.
For more detailed information about the different ways to take herbs, consider taking a course at the HomeGrown Herbalist Online School of Botanical Medicine.
