Abstract

The genus Berberis includes about 500 different species, which commonly grow in Europe, the United States, South Asia, some northern areas of Iran and Pakistan and South America (Ahrendt, 1961). Plant species of the genus Berberis (Berberidaceae) are of particular phytochemical interest because they have been an important source of alkaloids. In Chile, the Berberidaceae family is represented only by the Berberis genus, which includes 50 species. Only some of them have been chemically studied, as they are an important source of bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BBIAs), which are biogenetically derived from tyrosine. The genus Berberis has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of some diseases, highlighting its hypoglycemic value. The roots of Berberis (especially B. microphylla) have a high content of alkaloids, especially berberine, which appears to be responsible for its beneficial effects. Several studies have determined that the use of this natural product reduces the glycemic levels in healthy subjects and diabetics.