Common barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.). Common barberry. Leaves and roots of barberry Barberry ordinary chemical composition

06.03.2020

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The many beneficial properties of barberry make the plant unique. It is recognized by both official medicine and medicinal medicine. However, this is not his only incarnation. Amateur and professional gardeners enjoy using it to decorate parks and garden plots. The shrub is good at all times of the year.

In the spring, during the flowering period, it attracts bees with its aroma, during the ripening period it pleases the eye with a riot of crowns of various flowers, depending on the variety, and in the fall it gives wonderful fruits - beautiful, piquant and healthy.

The relatively small barberry berry contains a great variety of chemical elements, important for human body. Thanks to this, barberry is considered one of the leaders among medicinal plants.

Barberry berries contain the following substances:

ascorbic acid (vitamin C);
vitamins E, K;
tannins;
organic acids (tartaric, malic, citric);
pectins;
carotenoids (lutein, xanthophyll, chrysanthemumaxanthin, auroxanthin, flavoxanthin, capsanthin);
alkaloids (berberine, oxyacanthin, columbamine, palmatine, etc.);
ash;
small amount of carbohydrates.

The calorie content of freshly picked barberry is about 30 kcal per 100 grams, dried - a little more than 150 kcal per 100 grams.

Oblong, round - red, dark blue or light beige, depending on the variety, barberry fruits are distinguished by a unique sweet and sour taste, which makes them attractive for use in cooking - not only in confectionery (sweets, jam, marshmallows, candied fruits) , marmalade and drinks), but also for preparing marinades and sauces. In dried form, it is used as a seasoning for meat dishes.

Inside each berry there are seeds reaching 5 mm. In the Caucasus, it is customary to add berries to pilaf.
The pleasant aroma and sourness of the fruit have found application even in the distillery industry. The taste of barberry is incomparable and adds charm to dishes.

Also, berries are included in cosmetics. They have an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect and tone the skin. Moreover, not only the fruits, but also the leaves and roots of the plant have healing properties.

Infusions help lighten the skin, remove age spots and fight wrinkles on the face. Toning substances heal and strengthen hair, accelerate its growth and help with dandruff.

What is the plant useful for?

The healing power of barberry is difficult to overestimate. It is known that it was used in Ancient Greece. The drug from it purified the blood. Tibetan monks considered it the elixir of youth.

Nowadays, all kinds of tinctures and decoctions of berries, leaves and roots are taken for treatment:

colds (they are antipyretic and antimicrobial agents);
successfully remove toxins from the body;
promote blood clotting;
cope with uterine bleeding;
the presence of the alkaloid berberine allows it to have a choleretic effect in cholecystitis (it is effective even in the fight against a serious illness - hepatitis);
help with inflammation of the genitourinary system (cystitis and pyelonephritis);
for gastrointestinal diseases;
as a blood pressure regulator;
inhibits the growth of malignant tumors.

Preparing plants for the winter

When to collect barberry

The best time to harvest is late autumn, when all the fruits are finally ripe. Unripe fruits are poisonous and dangerous to health, as they contain too many alkaloids.

Having collected the berries from the bush, they need to be washed under running water. cold water and dry. Any container with a mesh bottom is suitable for this - a sieve, sieve or plastic tray with holes. The berries are placed in one layer, carefully placed to avoid damage to the peel. You need to treat fruits with special care if they have already been caught by frost.

Drying berries, leaves and roots for the winter

Drying barberry fruits is no different from drying other berries. A baking sheet with fruits laid in one layer is placed in an oven preheated to 40-50 degrees, gradually increasing the temperature to 60 degrees. It's easy to check readiness. Squeeze a handful of berries in your palm. If they do not stick together, then they are ready.
Beneficial properties last up to two years. It is best to store in a glass container with a lid or in birch bark containers.

Barberry leaves along with twigs are collected late spring or early June. The leaves are still very tender at this time. Typically, branches with leaves no longer than 10 cm are cut. It is best to do this after rain, when possible dust has been washed away.

The branches are laid out on a flat surface in the shade; it is better to do this under a canopy, since natural drying will take at least a week. After this, the dry leaves can be placed in fabric bags. How do they preserve berries? healing properties two years.

Barberry roots are harvested late autumn. For this, a third of all the roots of the bush are used. They are cleared of soil and laid out in the dark to dry. This is a rather lengthy process. To speed it up, you can place the roots in the oven. Even at low temperatures (up to 50 degrees C), they will dry out much faster. Roots are preserved for three years without losing medicinal properties. The roots, dried according to the rules, remain bright yellow.

Application of barberry

This unique shrub is useful from “head to toe”, that is, the roots, berries, and leaves - everything is suitable for preparing healing decoctions.

Fruit decoction

Berry decoction is an excellent remedy for vitamin deficiency. It is prepared very easily, just like regular tea. Barberry berries (a large spoon of fresh or dried fruits are poured into a cup of boiling water and left under the lid until completely cooled. The drink is drunk three times a day. It will also bring relief from colds. You can add a spoonful of honey to a cup of tea.

This drink is also useful for:

liver diseases (as a choleretic agent);
pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas);
cystitis (inflammation Bladder);
high blood pressure;
upset stomach;
damaged blood vessels.

Decoction of leaves

Pour two large spoons of dried leaves into a cup of boiling water and leave in a glass container with a lid until it cools completely. Then filter. The product is ready for use. It will help with:

cholecystitis;
sore throat;
bleeding gums;
uterine bleeding;
peptic ulcer.

Root decoction

Pour barberry root (half a small spoon of crushed roots) with a cup of water and place on the stove. After simmering for 30 minutes, strain. Top up boiled water to the original volume. Take the drug in a small spoon several times a day.

Relief will come when:

hepatitis;
pleurisy;
bronchitis;
fever;
diabetes mellitus;
metastases and malignant tumors.

Barberry for weight loss

Due to the fact that the fruits contain a large amount of vitamin C, pectins, organic acids and microelements, everything that increases peristalsis, they are used for weight loss. To this we must add the absence of fat and low carbohydrate content.

Eating fresh fruits or dried infusions replenishes useful material in the body, the deficiency of which is felt during special diets. However, you should not expect miracles and instant weight loss from barberry. The process proceeds gently, gradually freeing the body of toxins.

In order to get rid of excess weight You can prepare a tincture, decoction or tea.
Tincture of leaves with vodka (pour a handful of leaves in half a glass and put in a dark place for 15 days). Take half a small spoon several times a day.

Decoction of fruits. Can be made from fresh or dried berries. Place a large handful in a saucepan and add half a liter of boiling water. Cook over low heat for a quarter of an hour. Then cover the pan and leave to steep for several hours. After cooling, add boiled water to the original volume and take 50 mg three times a day after meals.

Berry tea. Dried barberry (pour a small spoon of berries with a cup of boiling water and leave). Drink throughout the day.

Contraindications for consuming barberry

Using barberry berries or other parts of the plant in medicinal purposes, we must remember that they can be harmful if used for a long time. The intestines will react with constipation.

In addition, infusions and fruits cannot be used if:

increased acidity;
bleeding during menopause;
pregnant women (barberry is dangerous during pregnancy due to the presence of alkaloids that stimulate uterine contractions, leading to miscarriage);
hypotension;
severe liver dysfunction;
thrombophlebitis;
cerebral vascular spasms;
heart failure;
plant allergies;
in childhood.

From all of the above it follows that barberry is a healthy plant, rich in vitamins and microelements, but there should be a sense of proportion in everything. If in doubt, it is better to consult with your doctor rather than self-medicate.

Berberis vulgaris L.

Barberry family

Botanical characteristics

Deciduous, thorny, highly branched shrub, up to
2.5 m, with abundant root growth. On the branches
tripartite spines up to 2 cm long.

The underground organs consist of a thick stem base,
thin horizontal rhizomes, powerful main root and
lateral roots, the bulk of which are located on
depth 10-30 cm.

Branches and roots
of this plant in the fracture have a bright
lemon yellow color. This color is given to them by the content in
Among them, the alkaloid berberine is one of the few colored alkaloids.

Leaves
alternate, 3-6 cm long and 1-2 cm wide,
elliptical, evenly serrated along the edges, on short
petioles.

Inflorescences
simple. The flowers are light yellow, with characteristic
shell-shaped petals are collected in drooping brushes up to
5 cm.

Fruit
- oblong berries, very sour, from purple to
dark red in color, usually with a faint waxy coating.

Seeds
2-3 pieces oblong, dark brown.

Blooms in April-May; fruits ripen from late July to
October, depending on habitat conditions.
Propagated by seeds and vegetatively (using rhizomes -
stolons).

Distribution

Found in Ukraine, the North Caucasus, middle and
southern zone of the European part of Russia. Grows on forest
edges and clearings, in thickets of bushes, on rocky
slopes, in the mountains. Cultivated as ornamental shrub V
gardens

Medicinal raw materials

Almost the entire bush is suitable for use: young
shoots, bark, leaves, flowers, berries and, of course, roots with
rhizomes.

Leaves, inflorescences, green shoots are collected in the phase
budding and flowering of barberry.

The fruits are collected when ripe, dried or prepared with
sugar.

Roots are uprooted in spring or autumn - after ripening
its fruit when the berberine content in the raw material
maximum. First, all above-ground shoots are cut off
base, and then use a shovel to dig up the soil around the bush in
a radius of about 0.5 m and a depth of approximately 0.5-0.6 m; dig
start from the trunk to the periphery of the root. They chop off and
uproot the roots by hand, picking up small roots
and bark, since the loss of these parts reduces the content
berberine in raw materials. Do not dig up the root system
fully. In addition, it is necessary to leave intact although
at least one barberry bush for every 10 square meters. m of thickets. On
the place of the destroyed specimen should be planted with a root
cuttings 10-15 cm long - this will ensure restoration
thickets after harvesting. In order to preserve natural
thickets, repeated harvesting in one place is possible
produce no more than every 10-15 years.

The dug roots are carefully shaken off the soil, removing when
these are blackened, rotten parts and other impurities. Wash
roots should not be placed in water, as berberine is good in it
dissolves and is therefore lost during washing. When cleaning
The bark of the roots peels off easily, so it is necessary
lay a tarpaulin or matting so that it does not get lost.

The raw materials are dried by laying them out thin layer and periodically
mix, cut the roots into small pieces and place
in dryers at a temperature of 40-50^C.

The finished raw material consists of whole or split along
woody roots from 2 to 20 cm long and up to 6 cm thick
cm, color at the break is lemon yellow; the smell is weak,
peculiar, bitter taste.

Barberry leaves are harvested in the budding phase and
flowering plants, picking them with your hands; not allowed
harvesting leaves covered with rust or damaged
pests.

The shelf life of raw materials is 3 years.

Chemical composition

All organs of barberry contain alkaloids.

The alkaloid berberine was isolated from the bark of roots and leaves. More
total berberine is found in the roots and root bark
common barberry - up to 1.5%. Berberine is isolated in
pure form and in the form of sulfuric acid salt - bisulfate
berberine Berberine is one of the alkaloids widely
common in flora: except for barberries, its
contain many plants from other families, in particular it
present in the bast of Amur velvet (Rutaceae family),
growing in the Far East.

In the bark of the roots of barberry common and centipede,
in addition to berberine, the alkaloid oxyacanthin was also found, and
also palmatine, iatrorizine, columbamine. Also installed
presence of essential oil and tannins. Underground
part of the common barberry contains 11 alkaloids.

Barberry fruits contain: glucose and fructose,
malic, citric and tartaric acids, pectic, tannic
And coloring matter, vitamin C, nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus,
magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium, silicon, aluminum,
manganese, zinc, copper, barium, nickel, titanium, vanadium,
zirconium, chrome.

Pharmacological properties

The fruits, roots and bark of barberry have
choleretic, appetite stimulant, vasodilator and
antispasmodic effect; have an antipyretic effect,
sedative and antimicrobial effect, relieve spasms
gallbladder; reduce inflammation,
act as a pain reliever for cholelithiasis and
dyskinesia of the biliary tract, being at the same time a choleretic
agent, known as a good hemostatic,
diaphoretic, enveloping and astringent, as well as
increases the function of the gonads in men.

The experiment found that the tincture of barberry leaves
Amur has hemostatic properties,
causes contraction of the uterine muscles, increases the rhythm and
increases the amplitude of heart contractions, decreases
level blood pressure.

Application

Fruit
used to prevent scurvy and other
avitaminosis. Juice from the fruit is used for stimulation
appetite, thirst quenching and temperature reduction during
feverish conditions, decreased blood pressure with
hypertension, as a mild laxative.

Leaves,
infused with alcohol, used for uterine
bleeding, hemorrhoids, diarrhea, inflammatory
gallbladder diseases, malarial lesions
spleen.

Bark and roots
used as a decoction for illnesses
liver and biliary tract, tuberculosis, gout, and
also for uterine bleeding and hemorrhoids.

Dosage forms

A tincture of Amur barberry leaves is produced
pharmacists in well-sealed 50 ml bottles.
Store in a cool, dark place.

Berberine sulfate is available in tablets of 0.005 g.

Tincture of root bark was part of the complex
cholelithin drug used to treat
cholelithiasis and cholecystitis.

The roots of the plant are part of Zdrenko’s special collection -
effective in the treatment of certain malignant diseases
tumors.

IN folk medicine use bark, fruits, flowers and leaves
all types of barberry.

In homeopathy, a tincture of dried parts is used
barberry.

Other types

Common barberry is a polymorphic species represented by
numerous varieties and forms. On South
Transcaucasia is replaced by a similar species - eastern barberry
- B. orientalis Schneid., characterized by more leathery,
entire leaves and erect inflorescences.

From a closely related species of Georgian barberry (B. iberika Stev. et
Fisch.), also growing in the Caucasus, common barberry
differs by the edge of the leaf blade; the latter has everything
leaves are entire and sometimes only on barren shoots
serrated.

Along with common barberry, they are used in medicine.
leaves of Amur barberry - Berberis amurensis Maxim. He
grows in Primorye and Amur region and differs from barberry
ordinary larger (6-12 cm long), thin
leaves with slightly protruding veins and longer
inflorescences, 7-10 cm long.

Siberian barberry Berberis sibirica L. grows in
Siberia. It differs in appearance from barberry
ordinary. Shorter, up to 1 m high, very
branchy thorny bush(spines 3-, 5-, 7-
separate). Leaves are smaller, up to 2 cm long, flowers
solitary, located on peduncles that are shorter
leaves and are equal in length to the flower itself. Red berries
broadly oval up to 9 mm long. Medicinal properties of barberry
Siberian are more effective than common barberry.

Contraindications

Pregnancy, as well as retention of membranes and parts in the uterus
placenta after childbirth. Cannot be used when
bleeding associated with ovarian dysfunction.

Since the alkaloids contained in barberry roots are
large quantities are very poisonous, use drugs
common barberry should be used with caution.

The beneficial properties of barberry were well known in ancient world on different continents and in different parts Sveta. The ancient Greeks and Romans prepared potions from the fruits and leaves of barberry for diseases of the stomach and intestines. In India, it was a popular tonic, thirst quencher and laxative. IN Ancient Egypt Barberry fruits were used to cleanse the blood and body of toxins. In the Far East, Japan and China, they treated scurvy, saved themselves from vitamin deficiency, relieved attacks of fever, reduced high pressure. The barberry flower is popular in Tibetan medicine; rejuvenating tinctures were made from the plant.

Plant species

Is it possible to eat the fruits of barbaris vulgaris? Barberry is an extensive, large genus of shrubs and trees, which has about 580 species. This includes evergreens spiny species, and deciduous. Which types of shrubs are most often used as medicinal raw materials, and which are cultivated for decorative purposes?

Common barberry. This is the most unpretentious appearance plants, grass that takes root well in the Central Russian region. “Favorite” of summer residents and gardeners. It is often used as ornamental plant which pleases the eye appearance over three seasons - spring, summer and autumn. The shrub looks beautiful in the fall, when bright clusters of berries ripen and the foliage turns red.
Asian barberry. This is the general commercial name of several botanical species of shrubs that are found in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. These varieties are frost-resistant; their fruits are much darker and covered with a bluish coating. These, for example, include: oblong barberry, spherical-fruited, Turkmen, whole-edged. The average height of Asian varieties is 2 m. Some of them are used in folk medicine, Food Industry, some are just for decoration.
Amur barberry. It grows in the Primorsky Territory and is also known in China and Japan. Outwardly it resembles common barberry, but with longer and larger fruits, leaves and spines. The crown of the bush is beautiful, wide, spreading, can grow up to 3 m. It is classified as heat-resistant, dry-resistant and frost-resistant species. Found in wildlife, but also cultivated since 1875.
Ottawa barberry. This is a hybrid obtained by crossing the common barberry and the Thunberg variety. One of the most famous decorative species shrub, which is widely used for landscaping. A beautiful spreading crown, purple-violet foliage, fragrant flowers - these are the advantages for which this species is worth growing. This is a real decoration of city parks and personal plots. The fruits of this species are edible, but small in size and very sour.
Barberry Thunberg. In the wild, this species can be found in mountainous areas in Japan and China. Cultivated throughout Europe for landscape design. This small bush no more than 1 m high, with small, graceful leaves and abundant fruits. The berries of this variety are bitter in taste due to the large number of alkaloids in the composition, so they are not eaten. However, birds happily feast on these vitamins in winter.

Features of common barberry

What is barberry? People far from the horticultural sphere can clearly imagine the appearance of the fruits of this plant. At least based on the image on the wrapper of the famous “Barberry” caramels or the berries in the seasoning for pilaf. However, not everyone knows what the shrub itself looks like, what are the beneficial properties of barberry and what diseases are treated with it?

Habitat

Common barberry can also be found in Asia. But this species is most typical for Central and Southern Europe. Distributed throughout the European part of Russia, it can also be found in the Volga region, Crimea, and the North Caucasus. In the wild, the shrub loves open, well-lit areas - mountain slopes, hillocks, hills, forest edges, open river banks, light forests.

Botanical description

The common barberry plant is a branched shrub reaching a height of 3 meters or more. The bark of young shoots and the trunk is gray, covered with spines up to 2 cm long. The leaves are alternate, petiolate, finely toothed along the edges, bright green in summer, purple-red, brown in autumn. The inflorescences are racemose (6 cm), yellow flowers, with a pleasant honey aroma. Fruit bright red, up to 1 cm long, very sour. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer, and the fruits ripen in late summer and early autumn, depending on climatic conditions.

Procurement of raw materials

The bush is famous widespread use not only fruits, but also prepared roots, leaves and even bark.

Berries. Harvested in September-October (it is better to harvest in dry weather). They are used in fresh, but also dried in air or in special electric dryers, in which the temperature should not exceed 40 °C. Store in linen bags for 3 years. Some herbalists indicate that it is better not to eat or prepare green barberry: due to the high content of alkaloids, the berries can cause poisoning.
Leaves. Collected in the spring - in May-June during the budding period. The leaves are dried in well-ventilated areas (you can outdoors, but not in direct sunlight). Dried raw materials are stored in linen bags for no more than 3 years, protected from dampness.
Bark. It is better to prepare in October. The bark is removed from thick stems, strung on a thin rope (thread) and dried outdoors in dry weather or in a closed but well-ventilated room. Bark, like other types of raw materials, can be stored for 3 years.
Roots.

They are most often dug in the fall (October-November), but can also be dug in the spring. They are well cleaned, washed and dried. Then they are cut into small plates, laid out in a thin layer and dried in a well-ventilated area. Dry roots can be stored for 3 years, protected from dampness.

Although the medicinal properties of barberry last for 3 years, if possible, herbalists still recommend replenishing stocks every 2 years with a good harvest.

Composition and pharmacological action What are the beneficial properties of barberry berries, its leaves, roots and bark? How did this plant deserve such popular fame and recognition in?

traditional medicine Chemical composition. The main value of barberry is alkaloids (substances containing nitrogen). There are eleven of them in barberry. The most important of them are berberine, berbamine, leontin, oxyxanthin. Ripe berries contain a lot of sugars, mineral salts, organic acids, vitamins, and the leaves contain more vitamin C, essential oils
, carotene, malic and citric acid. Pharmachologic effect.

Choleretic, hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, tonic, sedative, astringent, antiseptic, diuretic, hypotensive, antipyretic, antitumor, analgesic.

Indications

First of all, thanks to berberine, all parts of the plant are widely used as a choleretic agent. For what diseases and symptoms is this plant most often used? Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
Tinctures and decoctions stop gastrointestinal bleeding, treat diseases of the liver (including hepatitis and cirrhosis), spleen, bile ducts, gallbladder, stomach ulcers, digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, dysentery. respiratory tract. The benefits of barberry have been proven in the treatment of pneumonia, bronchitis, and any cough caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. It is also used in the treatment of pleurisy and tuberculosis.
Diseases of the cardiovascular system. Medicinal plant lowers blood pressure and improves heart function.
Bladder and kidney diseases. Barberry is a good diuretic, so it can be used for urolithiasis (under the strict supervision of a doctor!).
To improve appetite. Nutritionists recommend taking juice and jelly from barberry fruits if you have an appetite disorder before each meal. To reduce the acid, you can add a little sugar to it, dilute it with water, or add juice from other fruits.
Treatment of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. Infusions of barberry are recommended for gargling and rinsing the mouth in case of gum disease. Thanks to bactericidal, antiseptic properties barberry relieves inflammation of the mucous membrane well.
For weight loss.
How does barberry promote weight loss? Firstly, it normalizes metabolic processes in the body and improves digestion. Secondly, thanks to pectins and organic acids, it improves intestinal motility and cleanses it well. Berries also cleanse the blood and the entire body of toxins. During the diet, barberry-based preparations support the body with the necessary vitamins and mineral components, which is also very important. However, when losing weight, it is not recommended to use barberry as a snack and seasoning, since the berry increases appetite. But you can prepare compotes, decoctions, teas, infusions with minimal sugar content.
For rejuvenation. The rejuvenating properties of barberry were known in Ancient Tibet and China. Masks were made from it to smooth out wrinkles and improve skin color.
Diseases of muscles and joints.
Gynecology. Decoctions and infusions are used to treat uterine bleeding, as well as leucorrhoea, inflammation of the female genital organs using baths and douches. Uterine bleeding is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention to determine the cause of the bleeding. Barberry quickly narrows the blood vessels of the uterus, so previously its decoctions and infusions were used in folk medicine to stop bleeding after childbirth, and for uterine bleeding during menopause and hormonal imbalances.
Help with addictions. Some herbalists contain information that the fruits and leaves of the bush help get rid of drug, alcohol, and nicotine addictions.
External use. For inflammation of the eyes and skin (wounds, eczema), you can make lotions, baths, and rinse with barberry decoction.
Anti-radiation agent. During active radioactive irradiation, barberry helps to increase protective forces body.
Immunostimulating agent. Due to the large amount of vitamin C (especially in the leaves), barberry can be taken prophylactically to strengthen the immune system, in spring period vitamin deficiency

Some countries have their own peculiarities of using this plant. For example, in Germany they treat not only the gastrointestinal tract, but also lung diseases and mucosal lesions. In France, it is an antipyretic, bactericidal and hypotensive (lowering blood pressure) agent. In Bulgaria it is a popular medicine for radiculitis and rheumatic pain, in Poland it is often taken for vitamin deficiency, and in China for cancer.

Contraindications

What are the contraindications?

Pregnancy. Alkaloid substances contained in barberry can increase muscle tone, which can lead to miscarriage. early and premature birth in the last trimester. Most sources also contain a ban on the use of barberry during breastfeeding.
Individual intolerance. In case of hypersensitivity and severe allergic reaction, barberry should not be used for medicinal purposes.
Gallstone disease and liver cirrhosis. Barberry can provoke an acute attack. Therefore, the medicine cannot be used for cirrhosis and hepatitis various types without prescription or consultation with a doctor.
Diseases associated with increased blood clotting. Barberry, having a hemostatic effect, can aggravate the disease.
Children under 12 years old.

Use for medicinal purposes is prohibited or carried out under the strict supervision of a physician. This is due to alkaloids, which can not only bring benefits, but also cause harm to the body. Barberry is a weak poisonous plants

. Therefore, its use for medicinal purposes without consulting a doctor is not recommended. An overdose may be accompanied by the following symptoms - an allergic reaction in the form of swelling, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, loss of consciousness, nosebleeds and even kidney bleeding. When taking barberry and sedatives at the same time, the effect of the latter may increase. If there are any signs of overdose or allergic reaction, you should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor.

Features of use in folk medicine and pharmacological industry

How to prepare and use barberry at home? And what drugs based on this medicinal raw material can be purchased at the pharmacy?

How are the fruits used?

The uses of barberry fruits are very diverse:
they are consumed fresh, dried, boiled, pickled;
medicinal infusions and decoctions are made from the berries, as well as compotes, juices, syrups, jams, liqueurs, marmalades, jams;
There is a known recipe for preparing barberry with honey (barberry berries are placed in liquid fresh honey), then it is consumed as a healthy delicacy;
the fruits are also used as a seasoning for pilaf and other meat dishes;

fresh berries are often taken for diseases of the heart, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, vitamin deficiencies, to lower blood pressure, and for coughs.

Making jam from barberries
Prepare 1 kg of fresh fruits and fill them with cold water for 8 hours.
Boil syrup from 6 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water.
Drain the berries and add syrup.
Cook over moderate heat for 30 minutes.

Pour the jam into sterilized jars and roll up the lids.

This is one of the old Russian recipes for barberry jam. This is not only a delicacy, but also an effective antipyretic for colds, flu, and ARVI.

Preparation of a restorative drink from fresh berries
Squeeze ½ cup of juice from fresh fruits.
Dilute with a glass of boiled water.

Take ¼ glass of drink before meals.

This remedy normalizes appetite and also strengthens the immune system. The beneficial properties of barberry berries are preserved until the first frost, so the fruits can be harvested even in October-November.

How to use the leaves

In cooking.
Only young leaves are used, which can be collected in spring and early summer. In the old days, cabbage soup was cooked from the leaves, added to salads as a seasoning, and marinades were made. You can also use dried leaves as a seasoning to add a more sour taste to first courses. Decoctions, infusions, tinctures for internal use.
There may be water infusions and alcohol tinctures. To prepare them, take fresh and dry leaves. They are used to treat the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and uterine bleeding. As an antiseptic and analgesic for external use.

To strengthen the gums, it is recommended to chew fresh barberry leaves. A decoction of the leaves can be used to gargle, it is used for douching for gynecological inflammations, and lotions and baths are made from it for diseases of the skin and joints.

Preparation of barberry alcohol tincture
Take 2 tbsp. l. crushed dry leaves.
Pour in ½ glass of vodka or diluted alcohol (40%). Leave for 14 days in a warm and.

dark place

The tincture will have a dark yellow color, a pleasant aroma and a sour taste. Take 20-30 drops three times a day for 3 weeks.

How to use the root and bark

The use of barberry root and bark is advisable for inflammatory processes of the oral mucosa, gynecological inflammation, digestive disorders, as well as for external use - lotions and baths.

Preparation of a decoction of barberry roots
Take 1 tsp. chopped roots.
Pour a glass of water.
Boil and keep in a water bath for 40 minutes.

Strain the broth.

Take 1 tsp three times a day. The decoction is especially useful for pneumonia, bronchitis, and pleurisy. This remedy also quenches thirst well.

Pharmacy drugs Berberine tablets.
The active substance of the drug is barberry alkaloid (berberine). This is a well-known choleretic and antispasmodic drug that is used to treat chronic diseases of the gallbladder and liver. Under the influence of berberine, bile secretion increases, its viscosity decreases, bile secretion increases, and muscle tone of the gallbladder decreases.
Pharmacy fee. Dried fruits, leaves, bark and roots can be purchased at the pharmacy. Barberry can also be included in other pharmacy preparations.
Homeopathic granules "Barberry comp". They are most often prescribed for chronic tonsillitis and adenoids. In homeopathy, a tincture of dried roots is also used; it is taken long-term in a diluted form for cholecystitis, hemorrhoids, biliary colic, bleeding, rheumatism and other diseases.

Cosmetology

Decoctions and water infusions are prepared from leaves, fruits and bark, which are used to wipe the face. These homemade lotions and tonics have a rejuvenating effect, eliminate skin defects (pigment spots, freckles, acne), smooth out fine wrinkles, and give a healthy complexion. However, when preparing face masks from fresh barberry fruits, you need to remember safety: the acid can severely irritate sensitive skin. It is recommended to make masks on a small area of skin to check the reaction. Also, decoctions and infusions of barberry are effective in general hair care and eliminate dandruff well.

Preparing a decoction for skin rejuvenation

Take 1 tbsp. l. crushed barberry leaves (fresh or dry).
Pour a glass of boiling water.
Leave for 30 minutes.
Strain.

The decoction is used morning and evening as a tonic. You can also freeze the broth in the form of portioned cubes and wipe your face with them.

Preparing a hair mask

Take ½ cup of barberry fruit.
Pour 1 liter of boiling water.
Leave for 1 hour.

The medicinal properties of barberry are known not only in folk medicine. Preparations based on barberry are actively used in traditional medicine and pharmacology. Its main pharmacological properties are choleretic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and hemostatic. Due to the high content of alkaloids, the shrub is classified as a weakly poisonous plant and is dangerous in case of overdose and prolonged, uncontrolled use.

Barberry leaves are a herbal remedy that is included in the tincture, and is also available in the form of crushed raw materials, from which a decoction and infusion can be prepared for medicinal purposes.

What are the benefits of barberry leaves? Medicinal properties of the drug

The main effects of herbal preparations, which include barberry leaves, will be as follows: hemostatic, that is, hemostatic, in addition, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, analgesic, and also choleretic, while the drugs are effective for cholecystitis, as well as the presence of cholelithiasis in the patient.

In addition, the herbal remedy slightly increases blood clotting, so it should be used with caution by people prone to blood clots. Berberine, which is isolated from barberry leaves, has found use in the treatment of malignant tumors.

The listed effects on the body are explained by the fact that the leaves of this representative of the flora contain many medicinal components, in particular isoquinoline alkaloids, the main of which is berberine; in addition, vitamin E is present, ascorbic acid, carotenoids.

In addition, the leaves include some organic acids, for example, citric, tartaric, and malic. In addition, there are mineral salts, the composition of which is quite extensive.

What are barberry leaves from? Indications for use

I will list the conditions for which drugs containing the active substance barberry leaves are prescribed:

The indication is the presence of hepatitis;
Drugs are used for cholecystitis, as well as for biliary dyskinesia;
Decoctions, infusions and tinctures are effective if the patient has so-called cholelithiasis, which is not complicated by jaundice;
The presence of splenomegaly with such infectious disease like malaria.

Metrorrhagia is also considered an indication for the use of products prepared from the leaves of this representative of the flora, including during the postpartum period.

Who is not suitable for barberry leaves? Contraindications for use

Among the contraindications to the use of products containing barberry leaves, the instructions for use name the following conditions:

Hypersensitivity to chemical compounds of barberry;
Not used during pregnancy.

In addition to the above, uterine bleeding during menopause is a contraindication.

Why are barberry leaves dangerous? Side effects

When using drugs that contain barberry leaves, you may develop allergic reactions, this happens extremely rarely in patients with a high allergenic background. If the severity of symptoms continues for a long time, then it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Overdose of barberry leaves

How to use barberry leaves? Application and dosage

The tincture is recommended to be taken orally, and it is prescribed 20 or 30 drops up to three times throughout the day. It can be dissolved in a small amount of liquid; it is better to use chilled, pre-boiled water; a tablespoon is enough.

The course of treatment with a tincture based on this representative of the flora must be agreed upon with a qualified doctor; on average, its duration is two weeks or twenty days.

The infusion is prepared in this way. You will need 30 grams of raw dried leaves, after which they are poured into a container and water is poured into it, and its temperature should be quite hot, the amount is 200 milliliters. Next, cover the dish with a lid and leave it to infuse.

After forty minutes, you can filter the infusion; to do this, take a small strainer and pour the finished drug through it; the settled cake can be squeezed out, after which it must be disposed of. The product can then be used for therapeutic purposes.

Take an infusion of 15 milliliters up to four times a day as an anti-inflammatory agent for liver pathology, rheumatism, and so on, not forgetting to consult a specialist first. Storage must be carried out in a cool place, and the infusion should be sold no later than three days from the date of its production.

The decoction is prepared in a water bath; for this, 15 grams of dry leaves are enough, they are brewed with boiling water and placed on the stove for ten minutes, after which the drug is filtered through gauze or a sieve, and then the liquid is brought to a volume of 200 milliliters with boiled water.

After which you can use the decoction according to indications. It should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than five days from the date of preparation, after which it is not recommended to use it, as it will lose its healing qualities.

special instructions

Berberine isolated from the leaves of the plant has, to some extent, an antitumor effect on the body. Consequently, drugs based on it are used in oncological practice.

Preparations containing barberry leaves (analogues)

The active substance of Barberry vulgaris leaves is contained in the tincture of the same name, and crushed plant raw materials are also produced in cardboard box, where the date of manufacture of the drug and the period of sale are indicated, storage should be carried out in a dry place.

Conclusion

Common barberry leaves are a good phytomedicine, but before starting treatment, you need to consult a doctor.

The beneficial properties of barberry have been known for a long time. There are references to it in sources from the seventh century BC. The culture was first used for medicinal purposes in Egypt. At the beginning of our era it spread to eastern countries. The name of the plant comes from the Arabic word beri, which means “shell” and characterizes the shape of the leaves. In the 14th century, the culture was brought to Europe, where it spread everywhere.

Features of common barberry

Common barberry. Botanical illustration from the book “Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz” by O. V. Thome, 1885.

An unpretentious shrub grows on different types soils, being content even with the poorest. Its drought resistance determines the region of distribution - in warm and hot climatic zones. Thanks to the presence of countless thorns on the trunk and shoots, it slowly consumes the moisture consumed, so it does not dry out even in the hottest periods.

In Russia, common barberry is found from Leningrad region to Crimea, the Volga region and the Caucasus. The shrub is cultivated; it is often planted for decorative purposes in parks, forest belts and on summer cottages. It produces active shoots and often runs wild, so it can be extremely difficult to outwardly distinguish the “ordinary” variety from the originally wild analogue of Amur barberry. The latter grows in less warm regions, occurring in the Far East. Amur barberry grows on even poorer soils, rocky embankments along the banks of reservoirs.

Description

What is barberry? This beautiful bush, growing to a height of no more than three meters. Branched, with a powerful, highly developed root, capable of extracting moisture from great depths. The yellowish-gray branches are completely covered with thorns, the number of which does not decrease on young shoots. The neat, elliptical-shaped leaves are short, only up to four centimeters in length, with a thin carved edge.

The plant blooms in May and the first ten days of summer. Then it is covered with multiple bright yellow flowers, collected in luxurious brushes-inflorescences. One such brush can contain up to twenty-five bunches of small flowers round shape. The fruits ripen in August, during which time the bush turns red. Clusters of barberry fruits are bunches of berries, each of which reaches ten to twelve centimeters in length. Without organized collection, they remain on the bush for a very long time, often persisting throughout the winter.

Cultivation

The barberry plant is often chosen for decoration. summer cottages. There are no difficulties with its cultivation. It can be planted in the shade or on sunny side, and in each case the culture will certainly be accepted. Abundant growth will show fertile soil, but also on sandy loams it will grow and bear fruit annually.

Different parts of green barberry are suitable for propagation. In summer, you can cut a cutting from an adult shrub, which should be buried in the soil. The crop is also propagated by root suckers or by dividing an adult bush. However, in the latter case, there is a risk that the “parent” will die if it loses more than one third of the root.

Collection and preparation

All parts of the plant have valuable qualities. Barberry leaves, its root and bark, and fruits are harvested.

Leaves. Harvesting is carried out during the flowering period of the crop. Work is carried out using gloves to prevent injuries to the palms. Leaves can be torn off or shoots cut off with a knife, being careful not to damage the thin shoots. Dry the leaves under a canopy, without direct access sun rays. Spread on paper in a thin layer and stir periodically to dry evenly.
Rhizome. The roots are collected in autumn period when they accumulate valuable substances in maximum concentration. Parts of the rhizome are dug out with a shovel, thin shoots are cut off. Work should be carried out with caution, removing no more than one third of the rhizome from one shrub. Cutting down the root in more may lead to the death of the plant. It is not allowed to harvest raw materials from the same plant every year. To fully restore root system, barberry takes five to ten years. After removal from the soil, it is not recommended to wash the roots, since they lose valuable substances with water. They must be peeled off the ground and, if necessary, chopped into pieces up to twenty centimeters long and six centimeters wide. Dry the rhizome in well-ventilated areas, spread out on newspapers or hung in “beads”. After drying, they are stored in the form of bales, wrapped in newspapers or breathable burlap. The raw material should be ventilated regularly to avoid moisture concentration in it.
Fruit. Barberry berries are collected in different periods maturation. Green berries are rich in alkaloids; as they ripen, they completely lose these substances, but accumulate valuable acids. Red barberry berries are collected for therapeutic purposes; the beneficial properties of red ones are manifested in dietary nutrition for diabetes and decreased appetite.

Recently, the barberry rhizome has not been fully used. Research has revealed a high content of valuable substances in the bark, while in the fleshy part there are significantly fewer of them. The bark is peeled from the root and dried in the same way. All types of raw materials can be stored at low humidity levels for up to three years.

Composition and properties

The medicinal properties of barberry are associated with the content of more than ten types of alkaloids in it. Substances of the isoquinoline series are found in different concentrations in each plant organ. They are completely lost as the fruits ripen, but during the same period they accumulate in the root. The properties of berberine, which makes up the main part of the alkaloid series, have been sufficiently studied. The substance affects the biliary system and blood clotting.

Ripe barberry berries have a high acid content. Malic, citric and tartaric acids give the fruits a recognizable sourness. The beneficial properties of barberry berries at the stage of full maturity are determined by their high content of vitamins. The volume of vitamin C is up to one hundred and twenty percent. One hundred grams of fruit contains up to eighty milligrams of vitamin K.

Application of barberry

During the experiments, it was revealed that when taking the alkaloid berberine, the viscosity of bile decreases without changing its volume, while the patency of the bile ducts improves due to its antispastic effect. Relaxation of the gallbladder leads to a reduction in pain during cholelithiasis and stimulates productive drainage of the bile ducts.

The mechanism of action of the alkaloid berberine on uterine tone has not been fully identified, however, tests have confirmed stimulation of the contractile activity of the uterine muscles and a reduction in bleeding.

For hepatitis, diseases of the bile ducts, bladder. The benefits of barberry are recognized by official medicine. Pharmaceutical companies produce alcoholic tincture of barberry and the drug Berberine bisulfate. The drugs have a similar effect and are recommended for the treatment of diseases of the liver and biliary tract, for chronic cholecystitis during exacerbation of the disease and as a preventive measure for deterioration of the condition.
For uterine bleeding. The tincture is recommended for women in the postpartum period. Contraindications for the use of alcohol tincture of barberry are gynecological bleeding of unknown etymology or caused by inflammatory processes of the appendages. In the postpartum period, it is prohibited to use the drug in case of bleeding preceding the departure of the fetal place from the uterine cavity.
For hypertension.

The beneficial properties of barberry are also manifested in its effect on the cardiovascular system. The drug has a moderate hypotonic effect and stimulates the heart. The fruits of the plant are not used as a source of berberine. Having reached the degree of maximum maturity, they are a traditional and favorite seasoning in the Caucasus, in oriental cuisine. They are used to make jam or simply sprinkle with sugar, and in this form the berries are stored for a very long time. Without heat treatment

Berries retain up to sixty percent of vitamin C, which is destroyed when the fruit is heated.

For diabetes, sour fruits are used as the basis for a drink that quenches thirst well. In the Caucasus, they make wine and add them to drinks and sauces. It is believed that due to their high vitamin C content, they help rejuvenate the body.

Barberry fruits are not used for weight loss. Thanks to the acids they contain, they stimulate appetite, therefore they are recommended for people with a reduced sense of hunger during illness.

Tonic drink for diabetes

For diabetes mellitus with a characteristic thirst syndrome, barberry fruits will be useful. The tonic drink replenishes vitamin C deficiency in the body and increases resistance to infectious diseases.

Preparation
Grind the dried fruits, use one tablespoon of raw materials.
Pour two hundred milliliters of boiling water.
Strain.

Leave to infuse in a thermos for two hours.

This tincture should be taken up to three times a day, half a glass.

Alcohol tincture for hepatitis

You can prepare the tincture at home, following a simple recipe. The use of barberry is recommended for hepatitis, liver and biliary tract diseases.
Grind the dried leaves, use a tablespoon of raw material.
Fill with 70% alcohol with a volume of one hundred milliliters.
Strain.

Leave in a dark place for two weeks.

Take the product three times a day, thirty drops. In home treatment for the treatment of uterine bleeding, the tincture is categorically not recommended, since the lack of professional medical care

Decoction of roots for hypertension, arthritis

To lower blood pressure and tonify cardiac activity, a decoction of barberry roots or bark is recommended. The composition has a hypotonic effect, reduces the severity of intestinal spasms. It can serve as an adjuvant in the treatment of arthritis and diarrhea, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Grind the rhizome, use a tablespoon of raw material.
Fill with four hundred milliliters of water.
Boil for ten minutes.
Cool and strain.

The decoction should be taken three times a day on an empty stomach.

The use of barberry root and its leaves is recommended by official medicine for the treatment of a number of serious diseases. These include hepatitis, bile duct obstruction, and postpartum hemorrhage. The drugs show a high therapeutic effect. But at the same time, barberry can serve as a source of vitamins and simply a tasty ingredient in drinks and dishes. Its peculiar taste ripe berries will add a piquant note to compote and fruit tea.