Barbaris: all of its parts have useful properties

Even in ancient Egypt, barberry was known - the useful properties of this plant helped its inhabitants to fight with the raging yellow fever at the time. To do this, use a decoction of his berries. Unfortunately, to this day miraculous recipes have not reached, and we have to be content with only a plant that has preserved its original appearance. The records of the ancient Assyrians also mention barberry. Useful properties of this plant were used to combat many ailments of the time. In Russia, it has also been cultivated for a long time, growing in gardens just like raspberry, currant, apple and gooseberry.

The medicinal properties of barberry are determined by the composition of its berries, which contain carbohydrates and various vitamins, while fats and proteins are completely absent in their pulp. Also worth noting ascorbic acid, carotenoids (xanthophylline, chrysanthemaxanthin, lutein), which give fruits a red tint. In addition, they have macro- and microelements, sugars and pectin. They also contain beta-carotene, necessary for the synthesis of vitamin A. However, one must understand that it is necessary to use only mature barberry - useful properties in green fruits, are not yet fully manifested. One of the most important riches of the plant is the alkaloid berberine, which is a potent chemical substance with a multidirectional effect. Other parts of the plant (roots and leaves) can also be used for healing and toning purposes. They are rich in vitamins C, E, K (fat-soluble), they contain malic and citric acid, alkaloids, carotenoids. It should also be noted that the maximum concentration of berberine is observed just in its roots.

For medical purposes, barberry is also widely used. Useful properties of its berries are acquired in September-October, leaves - during and after flowering, bark and roots - after the collection of fruits. There are a number of important points that should be observed in this process. Roots need only be shaken carefully, but not washed, so water dissolves berberine. At the same time, you need to lay a thick fabric. This is due to the fact that the crust from them easily exfoliates. Dry roots should be in special chambers or under a canopy.

For medical purposes, parts of the plant are used in various forms. Tincture of barberry (or decoction) from the bark is widely used as a cholagogue and for various liver diseases. As an anti-inflammatory drug with the same ailments, the leaves are also used. To do this, they are made into an infusion. Root extract is used in the treatment of leishmaniasis. Barberry is used for the prevention and treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system. With its help, you can normalize the pressure and prevent the development of hypertension. The berries and leaves of the plant strengthen immunity. Barbaris can be used as a hemostatic.

Fruits are considered an effective cure for cough, sore throats, colds and inflammatory diseases. The plant is used to make preparations to improve the activity of the digestive system, they increase the appetite and tone of the musculature of the intestine. Astringent properties of barberry help to remove heavy metals, toxins, slags and other harmful substances from the body.