Barberry (Berberis vulgaris), a medicinal fruit and food with traditional and modern pharmaceutical uses

Abstract

Barberry is a resistant shrub which is able to grow up in semi-arid region with low-water or salty fields. Its red fruit widely used in Iranian foods because of its color and delicious taste. Berberis known as Zereshk in Persian has been consumed as both a remedy and traditional food additive. Its fruits are used mainly in Persian food in preparing juices, jam, chocolates, sauces and also a garniture. In both traditional and folkore medicine, it has been applied for its many biological and pharmacological activities. The most important compounds of B. Vulgaris are lupeol, oleanolic acid, stigmasterol, stigmasterolglucoside, berberamine, palmatine, berberine, oxyberberine, columbamine, isocorydie, lambertine, magniflorine, and oxycanthine. Barberry which are high in nutrients, contain beneficial plant compounds, which may help to manage diabetes, treat diarrhea, protect against metabolic syndrome, maintain dental health, and help fight acne. It also has anti-cancer effects, and it is appropriate to add to the diet. This review summarizes the beneficial effects of Barberry which is recommended for consumption.