Thistle (barberry) - Health Benefits And Composition

The fruits of sorrel are called barberry or sagebrush. They are often offered as dried fruits. The plant is grown in Iran, but originates from central and southern Europe.

The shrub reaches a height of 3 meters and blooms in spring with bright yellow flowers, and the fruits are bright red and ripen in early autumn.

They are edible, characterized by a pleasant sour taste. The plant is poisonous, except for seeds and fruits. They contain berberine, which is an alkaloid known for its healing potential. The use of medicinal berries dates back more than 2500 years.

They are used in folk medicine to treat diarrhea and fever. In addition, horseradish energizes the body and helps relieve inflammation, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. The intake of the fruit or decoction of it has a beneficial effect in the prevention of skin and fungal diseases.

Nutritional composition of barberry

One portion of 30 grams contains:

• 90 calories
• 1 gram of fat and protein
• 18 grams of carbohydrates
• 3 grams of fiber
• 213% of the daily requirement of vitamin C.
• 15% of the daily requirement of iron
• In addition to the valuable composition also includes zinc, manganese, copper.

Health benefits

Barberries are rich in berberine, a compound that has been linked to various health benefits. Studies show that it acts as a powerful antioxidant, fighting cell damage caused by free radicals.
Berberine lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels, slows the progression of cancer cells, fights infections and has anti-inflammatory properties.

You know that few fruits are allowed for consumption in diabetes, but barberry is an exception. they contain berberine, which lowers blood sugar. Its function lies in helping cells to respond to insulin. This in turn lowers blood sugar levels.

Barberry from scales is used as a remedy for diarrhea. This is again due to berberine, which helps to slow down intestinal function, thus stopping the movement of stool. In addition, some studies claim that these fruits help with diarrhea caused by certain types of bacteria.

Eating barberry can help prevent metabolic syndrome, which is associated with a host of risk factors that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Sour thistles protect against obesity, high blood sugar, normalize cholesterol, triglycerides and blood levels - all of which are risk factors for our health.
An 8-week study in patients with type 2 diabetes found that drinking 200 milliliters of barberry juice significantly reduced blood, triglycerides, cholesterol and blood sugar.

Another study lasting 6 weeks in 106 people found that long-term use of dried barberry reduces oxidative stress.

Studies show that barberry extract fights inflammation, so it can be used to relieve conditions such as gingivitis, which is associated with swollen gums due to accumulated plaque.
Barberry gel applied to teenagers found a significant reduction in plaque.

How to consume barberry?

Red berries find their second application in cooking. They contain vitamin C, smell nice, are characterized by a slightly sour taste and fruity aroma. They make a wonderful jam with a naturally thick consistency due to the presence of pectin, which is a natural gelling agent.

In some countries, the fruits are used in main dishes, salads, soups and desserts. Most often, these are foods containing rice, potatoes, vegetables and meat. In confectionery they are ideal for mousses, ice creams, creams and parfaits.

Regular and moderate consumption of red berries visibly supports the tone, concentration and overall functionality of the body. You can find barberry in organic stores.

Store it in airtight jars and in a cool place to keep its bright red color. Keep in mind that the fruit changes over time, darkens and oxidizes.