Iranian seedless barberry or zereshk (Berberis integerrima ‘Bidaneh’, Berberidaceae) has long been cultivated for its fruit in South Khorasan, Iran. There are more than 11,000 ha under production producing more than 9200 tonnes of dried fruit, annually. All orchards are established from sucker propagation but graftage should be possible. Barberry is cold hardy and drought tolerant. However, water deficits during fruit set, growth, and maturation cause yield reduction. Shrubs should be planted 2 m × 3 m apart. Those trained to multiple-trunk system facilitate harvest. Biennial bearing is a problem and sometimes no fruit is harvested in the off year. The small fruits are harvested in the autumn and sun drying is a satisfactory system. Barberry plant and its fruit have been used in traditional medicine. They are well documented for their anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial activities with berberine as the main active constituent. The shrub has also ornamental uses in the landscape and the fruit is used as food additive. In addition, anthocyanin of the fruit is useful as a natural coloring agent in food industries. However, Berberis species are alternate hosts for rust fungi (Puccinia spp.) and must be avoided in wheat growing areas. For this reason, they have been outlawed in some countries.

Boost Immune System

One of the most powerful plant alkaloids in Barberry bark is “berberine”. This
phytonutrient is responsible for many of its benefits. Berberine has been shown to
stimulate the immune system by activating the macrophages that devour harmful
micro-organisms. It is naturally antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. The berries of the
Barberry are naturally diuretic and high in vitamin C. The diuretic action allows the body
to flush out bacteria, whilst the vitamin C content supports and boosts the immune
system in its efforts to fight off infection.

Good for dental health

Test-tube studies have shown that barberry extract can fight inflammation. This is
because berberine acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Therefore, it may help
treat inflammatory dental diseases like gingivitis, which is marked by plaque build-up,
swelling, and irritation of the gums.

Help manage diabetes

Help manage diabetes

Barberries — and in particular their berberine content — may play a role in managing
diabetes, which is a chronic disease marked by high blood sugar levels. Specifically,
berberine has been shown to improve how the cells respond to the hormone insulin,
which regulates the amount of sugar in the blood. In turn, this may help lower the blood
sugar levels.

Could Help You Lose Weight

Metabolic syndrome is a combination of conditions including high blood pressure, high
blood sugar, excess belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The
dietary fiber found in barberry is great to bind unnecessary cholesterol in the intestine.
This will promote and optimize the production of good cholesterol to control cholesterol
level and lead to lose weight.