Berberis aristata DC.

Arabic Name : Ameerbaarees, Barbarees (Root), Zarashk, Zirishk (Berries)
Bengali Name : Rasanjan, Darhaldi, Daruhaldi
English Name : Indian Barberry
Gujarati Name : Rasvanti, Daruharidra
Hindi Name : Rasaut (Root Bark Extract), Darhald (Root), Zarishk (Berries)

Kannada Name : Rasajan, Mard Risin
Latin name : Berberis aristata DC.
Marathi Name : Rasvat, Daruhalad
Persian Name : Filzahrah (Root), Zarishk (Berries)
Sanskrit Name : Daruharidra, Daruhaldi, Darvi
Urdu Name : Rassaut (Root Bark Extract), Darhald (Root), Zarishk (Berries)

Description : It is regarded as a bitter tonic and is apparently used as a alterative, antibacterial, antibilious, antiemetic, antiinflammatory, antiperiodic, antiseptic, astringent, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, immune stimulant, laxative, purgative (large dose), refrigerant, sedative and stomachic. The berries (Zarishk) are a source of vitamin C. In various metabolic processes, vitamin C increases immune system activity, stimulates iron absorption, and prevents scurvy. They are useful in biliousness, constipation (larger doses), dyspepsia, cough, fevers, hypertension, indigestion, liver malfunctions, jaundice, hepatitis, sore throat, spleen disorders and typhoid. The berberine in the berries have remarkable infection-fighting properties. Berberine may also fight infection by stimulating the immune system. Studies show that it activates macrophages, the white blood cells that devour harmful microorganisms.

The root bark extract (Rassaut) is alterative, antiperiodic, astringent, deobstruent, diaphoretic, febrifuge, laxative and tonic and is very useful in periodic neuralgia, leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, haemorrhage, haemorrhoids and ulcers. It reduces blood pressure. It is as valuable as quinine in malarial fevers and as a blood purifier.

Recommended Dosage : Root Bark Extract : 500 mg to 3 g powder; Root : 3 to 5 g powder; Berries : 1 g powder.

Contraindication : This herb is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation. Higher doses may interfere with vitamin B metabolism.