(b) Usefulness of Berberis Nevinii

The leaves have sharp spines and the rhizomes and tap roots of older plants are collected. The tap root is collected from the plants and the leaves are also used in preparations. The roots are cut and dried and use as tea preparations. (Kane, 80) Berberine can cause hemolytic deficiency. (Kane, 81) The species contain chemicals that are said to have medicinal properties. It contains alkaloids, berberine, columbamine and others like oxyacynthine and many more. It is said to be very effective against bacteria and other disease causing organisms and arrests their proliferation. (Kane, 79-80) The oil from the plant is used as an antiseptic in wounds, and treating fungus in the nails and for bacterial or mold created problems. It is also being used for purposes of indigestion. Some other possibilities include treatment for psoriasis, liver cooling, and in hepatitis. It is anti-inflammatory and is used in treating some aliment like strep throat and sinusitis too. The fruits are used in confectionery in producing jams and jelly.

c) Symbolism of the Plant of Berberis Nevinii

The Berberidaceae family or Barberry family consists of many plants: The Fremont...

Scientifically the nomenclature is Mahonia fremontii or known as Berberis fremontii. The red barberry is 'Mahonia Haematocarpa' or 'Berberis Haemotocarpa' and others including Algerita -- Barberis trifoliata and Nevins barberry. All these are shrubs that have large spiny shaped leaves and produce six petalled yellow flower and juicy fruit and have deep roots. (Kane, 78) M. Nivenni is a large rounded shrub and has holly like leaves, and is composed of three to five spiny clusters. The fruits are yellowish red, mostly a native of California. The species are now classified as Berberidaceae and its new name is 'Mahonia nevinii' or 'Mahonia nevinii'. (Calflora. Taxon Report 1074)