Barberry

Barberry is the general name for a genus of deciduous trees known as Berberis. The particular species of tree whose parts are often used in skin care products is Berberis vulgaris, or European barberry.

Barberry root extract, like many other plant extracts, has potent antioxidant properties, fighting off pro-ageing free radicals. Most of that antioxidant benefit comes from a component in barberry called berberine, which is a type of quaternary ammonium salt.

Studies also show that berberine has anti-inflammatory properties, giving barberry root extract its well-known soothing benefits. Berberine also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, although it’s not typically used in cosmetics for these purposes.