Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Berberis species, particularly Berberis vulgaris (barberry), have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine systems for supporting liver and gallbladder function. In traditional European and Ayurvedic medicine, Berberis root and its extracts have been used to stimulate bile flow, which is thought to help with "sluggish" gallbladder function or to compensate after gallbladder removal. The primary active constituent, berberine, is believed to exert choleretic effects (increasing bile secretion), which may theoretically aid in digestion of fats and prevention of gallstones. However, direct scientific studies specifically evaluating Berberis for gallbladder dysfunction or post-cholecystectomy support are limited. Most available evidence comes from animal studies or in vitro research demonstrating increased bile flow or modulation of liver enzymes. There are few, if any, robust clinical trials in humans confirming the efficacy or safety of Berberis for these specific indications. Thus, while its use is well-established in traditional herbal practice, rigorous modern scientific validation is lacking, and the traditional evidence is moderate but not strong.

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