Tree Turmeric (Dar-e-Hald)., A Berberine Containing Unani Medicinal Herb of Pakistan

Abstract

Tree turmeric (Dar-e-hald) i.e. Berberis aristata is a fomous Greek-o-Unani herb well grown in Pakistan. Dar-e-hald is known for its anti microbial properties in eyes, ear, gastrointestinal and genitourinary infections. Medicinally, the root and root bark, stem and stem bark, berries, flowers and powdered root and stem with the bark were used. Root and stem with the bark used as a potent source of berberine, the important constituent of the plant. The yellow coloured chemical constituent, berberine, gives the powdered dry root with bark its yellow colour and is an antimicrobial, anti inflammatory agent and anti cancer agent.