Definition. - The rhizome and roots of Berberis aquifolium and other species of berberis.

Berberis aquifolium is known as Oregon grape root. It contains an alkaloid, ber-berine, which is also found in menispermum (a drug dropped from the present revision), calumba, hydrastis, and other drugs.

Dose. - Average dose: 30 grains (2 Gm.), U. S. P.

Official Preparation

Fluidextractum Berberidis - Fluidextraicti Berberidis - Fluidextract of Berberis.Dose.Average dose: 30 minims (2 Cc.), U. S. P.

Physiological Action. - Berberis contains an active alkaloid, berberine, an alkaloid widely distributed in the plant kingdom. Its relations to hydrastis have given it a slight reputation as a uterine stimulant, but it is hardly more than an unnecessary bitter. It has no particular physiological action and little practical therapeutic worth.