Berberine
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Berberine is an alkaloid found in many plants including Hydrastis canadensis, Xanthorrhiza apii-folia, Colombo ceylonica, and Berberis vulgaris. It is a yellow, odorless, bitter crystalline powder with alkaline reaction, used as a bitter tonic for stomach disorders, bleeding, and malaria.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
BERBERINE, Berberinum, xanthopicrocrit, an alkaloid found in many plants: Hydrastis canadensis, Xanthorrhiza apii-folia, Colombo ceylonica, Berberis vulgaris, etc. In pure form, it was isolated in 1824 by Güttenbacher (Güttenbacher). Berberine is a yellow, odorless, bitter crystalline powder of alkaline reaction, with a melting point of 140°; easily soluble in boiling water and alcohol. B. and its salts (hydrochloride, sulfate, and nitrate) are non-toxic and are used as a bitter tonic in stomach diseases (dyspepsia, diarrhea), as well as for bleeding and malaria. It is assumed that B. causes contraction of the spleen and uterus. Dose: 0.05-0.25 several times a day.
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“Berberine.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/berberine/