Barberry Root Bark

Barberry Root Bark is the bright yellow inner bark of the barberry shrub, long valued in traditional herbal practices around the world. Known for its intensely bitter flavor and vibrant color, barberry root bark is available in both cut and powdered forms to suit a variety of preparations. It is commonly used in teas, extracts, and topical formulations, as well as culinary and personal care applications. Its bold character and versatility make it a distinctive addition to herbal routines.

UPC: 084783001003.

Origin(s): Croatia, India, United States.

Latin Name(s): Berberis vulgaris, Berberis aristata.

Also known as: European barberry,  jaundice berry, pepperidge, pepperidge bush, sowberry, berberis.

Plant Part(s) Used: Root Bark.

Herbs exhibit natural variations in their size, color, smell, and taste, with each batch and harvest showing differences influenced by environmental conditions and genetics.

Appearance: Golden brown, yellow to greenish.

Aroma: Faint.

Taste: Strong, bitter.

GMO Status: Non-GMO.

Allergen: None.

Additives: Free of any additives or preservatives.

Applications / Preparations: Barberry Root Bark, in both cut and powdered forms, may be used for culinary, herbal, and personal care applications. Preparation methods vary depending on the form selected. Because external uses vary widely, customers should research reliable sources for preparation and usage methods.

Internal Use – Cut
Adults may take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (approximately 1–2 g) once or twice daily (totaling roughly 1–4 g/day).

Tea (Decoction):
Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (approximately 1–2 g) of Cut to 8–12 fl. oz. of water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes. Strain and serve. Enjoy up to 1–2 cups daily.

Internal Use – Powder
Adults may take 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (approximately 0.5–1 g) once or twice daily (totaling roughly 1–2 g/day).

Capsules:
For encapsulation, follow capsule machine manufacturer instructions. One 00 capsule typically holds approximately 500 mg of powder, though weight may vary by density.

Powder in beverages/foods:
Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (approximately 0.5–1 g) of powder into 8 fl. oz. (240 ml) of water, juice, or blended into a smoothie. Stir or blend thoroughly and consume immediately.

External Use (Cut or Powder)
Barberry Root Bark, in both cut and powdered forms, may be used in poultices, washes, baths, or infused oils. Because external uses vary widely, we encourage customers to research the best method and proportions for their needs.

Both cut and powdered Barberry Root Bark may be prepared as teas or decoctions; blended into herbal beverages; used in tinctures and liquid extracts; incorporated into bitters and traditional culinary preparations; infused into oils or liquids; and included in DIY skincare, bath, and personal care products such as washes, soaks, compresses, salves, creams, or balms.

Storage: Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. 

Shelf Life: It is very difficult to pin down an exact expiration date for most single herbs as they do not really expire, they lose potency or strength over time but will still have value. Unlike synthetic material or drugs, herbs can contain many constituents that contribute to their medicinal effects. Even if when we know what the active constituents are, there are often many of them in a single herb, each with different rates of degradation. Some herbs lose their effect more easily. Other herbs that possess more stable compounds such as alkaloids or steroids will last much longer.

A huge part of the degradation rate of herbs depends also on the storage conditions of the herb, & even on the quality of the herb before storage – how it was grown, harvested, dried & processed. If the product is left in hot places or open to sunlight then it will degrade much quicker than if it was stored in cool, dry place & sealed tightly.

A good rule of thumb is that herbs should be stored no longer than 2-3 years, but many herbs will have great strength much longer than that. To determine if an herb is still good you can check the appearance & aroma. Herbs that are no longer acceptable will have lost much of its vibrant color & will instead appear dull & faded. The bigger key though is to smell the raw materials to see if the potent aroma is still present. 

Warning: Consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Not recommended for long-term continuous use. May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.