Berberis Vulgaris Consumption and Blood Pressure

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of barberry consumption on systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum lipids, and inflammatory status. The study will involve cases having elevated BP (129/ < 85) and known hypertensive patients on medical treatment. Seventy people will be randomized into two groups, including intervention (barberry) or placebo groups. Before and after of 8 week intervention, 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring will be done and fasting venous blood sample will be taken to measure plasma lipids. In addition, 24‐hour urine will be collected to measure its sodium content and estimate sodium intake.