Barberry Alcoholic Extract

Please note that, according to our professional standards of care, we must ensure that our practitioners' only products are safe and suitable for the intended outcome. Therefore we require the submission of a Risk Assesment  Form (access HERE ) prior to the supply of herbal extracts. If you are unable or unwilling to reveal personal information, please contact the pharmacy for a chat with a practitioner and an alternative solution. 

Fluid extract of the bark of the Barberry tree, Berberis vulgaris, in 25% ethanol and purified water. 

Traditonal Use: 

Barberry is a well established traditional medicine of the American Indians. This plant has been used for over 2,500 years for its medicinal properties. Barberry and goldenseal are often used for similar medicinal purposes because of their berberine content. Traditionally, both herbs are used as a bitter tonic, specific for digestive liver, liver, gall bladder problems. 

The best results are achieved by using blend of herbal extracts with similar pharmacological activity. The therapeutic range of Barberry extract is similar to the range of Goldenseal, Dandelion and these are often used together for better digestion and liver and gall health.

Cosmetic Use: 

Bearberry Extract is most commonly used in preparations for skin brightening as the plant contains a natural source of hydroquinone called Arbutin, an active that works on keratinocytes to reduce pigmentation.  Unlike synthetic hydroquinone plant extracts such as the Bearberry have a gentler action on the skin and also have the added benefit of delivering trace minerals and vitamins into the formulation.  As a general rule Bearberry fruit contains approx. 12% arbutin although this level can vary depending on the age of fruit and growing conditions.  There is always some batch-to-batch variation in natural extracts. The recommended level of bearberry in a cosmetic formula is between 0.01-0.15% for daily use or up to 2% for speciality products.

Warning: Herbal extracts may interact with other therapeutic substances, or be contraindicated in certain conditions, and as a general rule are not recommended for use by children, in pregnancy and lactation, or if you are on certain prescription medications.If wondering if any of our herbal products may be of benefit to you, please complete and submit this form and get in touch by phone or email.