Bayberry is the common name for a shrub in the Myrica family that has small berries with a thick wax coating. This indigestible wax coating was used in the past to make candles. The root bark contains a very high concentration of tannins, which are constituents that promote the tightening of mucous membranes and help to protect against infection. Bayberry has been used traditionally as an anti-diarrheal medicine as it reduces the leaking of fluid into the digestive tract, and thus helps to prevent watery stools.
Key Health Benefits of Bayberry
Anti-infection
Bayberry root bark is used for the topical treatment of infection. Diluted tea can be gargled for sore throats or used as a vaginal douche for vaginitis. Bayberry extract has been shown to inhibit growth and toxic release by the bacteria that causes cholera. It can also be used to treat skin infections and wounds to prevent bacterial growth.
How To Take These Supplements
The root extract of Bayberry can be used topically as needed for wounds or infections. Internally, for the treatment of diarrhea, there is no known standardized dosing. Because of this, it can be dosed according to the manufacturer's label instructions.
