Plant Profile: Barberry

Barberry
(Berberis vulgaris)

Family: BERBERIDACEAE

Energetics: Warming. Drying. 

Taste:

Tissue States: Heat. Dry. 

Systems Affected: Digestive system. Gallbladder. Liver. Urinary system (Kidneys and Bladder). 

Parts Used: Bark of the root. Stem

Key Components: Isoquinoline alkaloids (berberine, oxyancanthine). Chelidonic acid. Tannins. 

Preparations & dosage: Use in small doses because it is SO bitter. Decoction of 1 tsp simmered in 1 cup of water for 10-15 minutes. Tincture: 1-5 drops

Actions: 
Foundational: Intense bitter. Astringent. Aromatic.
Primary: Alterative. Cholagogue. Antiemetic. Laxative.
Secondary:

Uses: See also Oregon Grape Root. Michael Tierra says that the indications for Barberry and Oregon Grape are the same. 

For liver and digestion: Corrects liver deficient liver function by increase bile secretion and gastric juices. Also increases secretions from the kidneys. A good indication for the use of barberry is gallstones or gallbladder inflammation. Also indicated when there is congestion in the liver causing jaundice. Helps to strengthen and cleans the system of those who are weak from illness. 

Chewing on a piece of bark will increase saliva in the mouth. 

Spleen: Indicated when the spleen is enlarged. 

Other indications to look for are a deep red tongue often with a brown coating. Look for a pulse that is fast and intense (hard). 

Combines well with: 

Identifying: 

Growing:

Harvesting: Harvest root and stem in the spring before it wakes up, around March, or in the Fall around November after the plant has died back and the energy has gone back down into the root. Remove the bark from the root and stem and dry it in a shaded space. 

Contraindications: Not for use during pregnancy. 
Use in very small doses due to its intense bitterness. 

Sources:

The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 215. 

The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 92

The Earthwise Herbal: Volume 1: Matthew Wood. Pg 131-135