Daruharidra (Berberis aristata DC.): A Comprehensive Review Bridging Ancient Ayurvedic Wisdom with Modern Pharmacological Insights

Berberis aristata (Daruharidra), widely recognized in Ayurveda, has been used across ancient civilizations for treating liver, skin, and infectious diseases. This review brings together insights from classical Ayurvedic texts and recent pharmacological research to present a comprehensive understanding of the plant. Key aspects such as its Rasapanchaka profile, active phytoconstituents-particularly berberine and documented therapeutic effects are examined. Studies confirm its hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective properties. The convergence of traditional knowledge with scientific validation suggests a strong potential for its application in integrative medicine and modern healthcare systems.