Fights Infection
Many studies have pointed out that the berberine contained within barberry has significant antibacterial, antifungal and antiprotozoal abilities. By inhibiting the ability of bacteria to attach to human cells, it helps protect against many infections.
Barberry is used to ease a large variety of inflammation and infection in the body. It helps with bladder, urinary tract and gastrointestinal infections. It also helps relieve common respiratory tract ailments, including sore throat, nasal congestion, sinusitis and bronchitis.Candida infections can also be improved through the use of this herb.
Aids the GI Tract
Berberine also acts on the smooth muscles that line the intestines, helping improve digestion and reduce gastrointestinal pain. Barberry is even an effective treatment for diarrhea, including both traveler’s diarrhea and diarrhea caused by food poisoning.
A few studies have suggested that it improves gastrointestinal problems faster than antibiotics, most likely due to its astringent properties. Studies like the one published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases showed that berberine relieves bacterial diarrhea without any negative side effects.
Prevents and Treats Diabetes
Barberry has proven positive effects on blood sugar, making it an excellent choice to prevent and improve diabetes. One study conducted on berberine compared taking 500 milligrams of this compound found in barberry two to three times daily for three months with taking the common diabetes drug metformin. Berberine was able to control blood sugar and lipid metabolism as effectively as metformin, with researchers describing berberine as a “potent oral hypoglycemic agent.