May have anticancer effects

Barberries may have anticancer benefits in a variety of ways, many of which are related to berberine. Berberine, as an antioxidant, may aid in the battle against underlying oxidative damage associated with cancer formation. Berberine may also promote cancer cell death, impede cancer cell multiplication, and inhibit enzymes involved in the cancer cell life cycle.

Berberine has been proven in several test-tube studies to inhibit tumor growth and initiate cell death in human prostate, liver, bone, and breast cancer cells. However, a study has been confined to in vitro trials, and additional research is required to better understand the potential function of barberries in cancer treatment and prevention.