Berberis Vulgaris vs Onopordum acanthium

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Berberis Vulgaris

Berberis vulgaris (fruit)

Liver Support

Liver Support

Berberis Vulgaris

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Onopordum acanthium

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

European and Persian barberry fruit rich in berberine and vitamin C, used for liver and metabolic conditions.

Majestic silvery thistle; national symbol of Scotland; used in European folk medicine for cancer and fever.

Active Compounds

berberine, berbamine, palmatine, vitamin C, anthocyanins

onopordine, acanthoidin, flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins

Traditional Uses

Persian Zereshk rice dish, European blood purifier, TCM liver herb

cancer historically, fever, liver, digestive disorders

Modern Uses

liver tonic, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antimicrobial

anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant

Adult Dosage

15-30g fresh berries daily or 500mg berry extract

3-5g dried leaf or 2-3ml tincture daily

Contraindications

pregnancy, blood thinners, hypoglycemic agents

asteraceae allergy, pregnancy

Side Effects

GI upset, hypoglycemia, uterine stimulation

contact dermatitis from spines, GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E