Identification and characterization of bioactive compound berberine in the Berberis vulgaris root extract using HR-LC-MS analysis

Abstract

Ayurvedic medicines and formulations acquired from ancient Indian herbal systems are well-known for their various important applications. Recently, the interest and investigation in medicinal plants have augmented immensely. Berberis vulgaris L. is a shrub of family Berberidaceae produces in Asia and Europe; it is named in English as barberry.1 It is a deciduous shrub growing up to 4m high. The leaves are small oval, 2–5cm long and 1–2cm broad, with a serrated margin; they are borne in clusters of 2-5 together, subtended by a three-branched spine 3–8mm long. The flowers are yellow, 4–6mm across, produced on 3–6cm long panicles in late spring. The fruit is an oblong red berry 7–10mm long and 3–5 mm broad, ripening in late summer or autumn; they are edible but very sour, and rich in Vitamin C.2 The plant has been used widely for centuries for the treatment of various ailment. A broad range of medicinally and nutritionally important phytochemical components have been isolated from various parts of the plants such as alkaloids, saponins, cardioactive glycosides, anthocyanins, tanins, carbohydrates, protein, lipid, vitamins, fiber contents, β carotein. Phytic acid and phytate phosphorus etc.3