Barberry (Berberis vulgaris): Exploring its nutritional composition, bioactive components, and health benefits for humans

Berberis vulgaris L. (barberry), a member of the Berberidaceae family, has been widely utilized in traditional medicine for over 2500 years and is increasingly recognized for its pharmacological properties. This review aims to evaluate the nutritional and phytochemical profile of B. vulgaris , synthesize evidence for its health benefits across preclinical and clinical studies (2003–2025) using PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, clinical trial registries, and identify gaps in current research to guide future investigations. Our hypothesis says that B. vulgaris exerts multisystem therapeutic effects primarily through its high berberine and polyphenol content, which modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic pathways. The fruit, leaves, roots, and bark of B. vulgaris contain a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids (e.g., berberine), anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin-3-glucoside), phenolic acids (gallic acid, chlorogenic acid), flavonoids (quercetin, myricetin), and essential minerals (Ca, K, Fe, Zn). Pharmacological studies demonstrate significant ( p < 0.05) antioxidant capacity (88.9 % radical scavenging), in vitro and in vivo anticancer effects (apoptosis induction in breast, colon, liver cancer cells; p < 0.05), anti-inflammatory (30–68 % edema inhibition; p < 0.05), antimicrobial (ZOI: 6–19 mm against S. aureus, E. coli; p < 0.05), and gastro-protective (74.81 % ulcer reduction; p < 0.05) effects. Clinical trials confirm its efficacy in managing metabolic syndrome, reducing low density lipoprotein-cholesterol ( p < 0.05), and improving glycemic control in type 2 diabetes ( p < 0.05). This review specifically addresses the existing gap in correlating phytochemical diversity with mechanistic and clinical outcomes, highlighting the need for standardized extraction methods and enhanced bioavailability strategies. Overall, B. vulgaris emerges as a promising nutraceutical and therapeutic candidate, warranting further long-term clinical validation to establish its safety and efficacy. • Berberis vulgaris exhibits diverse pharmacological activities owing to rich phytochemical profile. • Variability in extraction methods and regional factors significantly influences its bioactive composition and reproducibility. • Clinical studies demonstrate promising results with minimal adverse events. • Future studies should address long-term safety, dosage standardization, and comparative efficacy.