first | previous | next | last | nmc index

Barberry
(Berberis vulgaris)
European barberry, jaundice berry, pepperidge bush, sowberry

Description: A deciduous shrub. The roots are yellow on the outside.
The bark is bitter. Leaves are obovate. Stems are from 3-8 feet high, reddish when young, a dirty gray when older. The bright red, oblong berries grow along spiny, grooved branches and have an acid but agreeable taste. Should only be eaten when ripe. Found throughout eastern and central U.S. in hard, gravely or rich soils. Other species are found throughout the northern and western U.S.

Edible, Medicinal: The berries have an acid but agreeable taste and should only be eaten when ripe. They can be preserved or pickled. Bark of the root is hepatic. The berries are a laxative and a refrigerant, and used for reducing fevers. The fresh juice is used to strengthen gums. A decoction of either the berries or bark makes a good mouthwash or gargle for mouth and throat irritations. The stem, bark and root are anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory, used to improve liver action, liver problems, including alcohol abuse. Bark from the stem dilates blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure. Avoid barberry when pregnant

Select... ------------------------------------------ Survival Raw Foods & Alkaline Eating Food Storage Basics Health & Wellness Tips Plant ID Photos & Info. Do or Die Playing Cards Wild & Free Game Cards Audio & Video Media Books, Videos, CD's... ------------------------------------------ Contact & Order Info. Visit Us Online ------------------------------------------ E-mail Us