Berberine compound - An herbal antibiotic

The family of plants containing berberine includes such valuable medicinal herbs as goldenseal, barberry, and the Oregon grape. These plants have a long history throughout the world in the treatment of a wide variety of discorders. Much of their therapeutic effect is believed to be due to their high content of the so-called berberis alkaloids. The chief berberis alkaloid, berberine, has been extensively researched in both clinical and experimental studies.

HISTORICAL USE OF BERBERINE CONTAINING HERBS

These herbs were historically used as tonics, particularly in improving the function of the digestive system. This reflects their ability to increase gastric and bile secretion. Perhaps the most widespread use of berberine containing herbs was in the treatment of infection, particularly in gastrointestinal tract infection.

Berberine containing platns have been used in India and China for nearly 3,000 yearsas anti-diarrheal medications. Their success in treating gastrointestinal infections has recently been upheld in the scientific literature. Researchers concluded " These results thus provide a firm rationale for the reported clinical effectiveness of an ancient antidiarrheal medication from the extracts of the common barberry bush".

Although the historical uses of the plants are somewhat similar they do differ slightly. It is thought that combining these three major berberine containing plants creates a much greater therapeutic effect than by taking the individual herb or the isolated berberine alkaloid.

GOLDENSEAL (hydrastis canadensis)

As golden seal has the highest berberine content it is often considered the most significant of the berberine containing plants. However, barberry and Oregon grape also contain significant amounts of berberine and other berberis alkaloids. Native to North America, goldenseal was used extensively by the American Indian as an herbal medication and clothing dye. Its use medicinally centered around its ability to sooth inflamed mucous membranes lining the respiratory, digestive, and genito-urinary tract in condition due to allergy or infection.

BARBERRY (Berberis vulgaris)

This plant is native to the greater parts of Europe, Northern Africa and Asia. In addition to its use as an anti-infective agent it was used in the treatment of arthritis and high