Berberine

Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants, known for its potential health benefits. It has been studied for its ability to support blood sugar regulation, heart health, and gut health. Often used in traditional medicine, berberine may also aid in weight management and inflammation reduction.

Introduction

The bark, leaves, twigs, rhizomes, roots, and/or stems of various plants, including barberry, Oregon grape, and tree turmeric, contain the alkaloid berberine. Berberine has long been utilized in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine as an antibacterial, antiprotozoal, and antidiarrheal drug. Berberine’s effects on glycemic control markers, blood lipids, liver function markers, and anthropometric factors in individuals with metabolic diseases have been the focus of most human studies.

Certain plants, including European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, philodendron, and tree turmeric, contain the chemical berberine. Berberine is a yellow compound with a bitter taste. Those with specific heart diseases may benefit from its potential to enhance the heartbeat.

A naturally occurring chemical in many plants is berberine. According to some research, it may improve blood sugar balance, aid in weight loss, and offer protection against several chronic illnesses.

A supplement called berberine has been linked to several possible health advantages. Berberine in particular has been demonstrated to enhance weight loss, reduce blood sugar, and strengthen the heart.

A naturally occurring chemical in many plants is berberine. According to some research, it may improve blood sugar balance, aid in weight loss, and offer protection against several chronic illnesses.

A supplement called berberine has been linked to several possible health advantages. Berberine in particular has been demonstrated to enhance weight loss, reduce blood sugar, and strengthen the heart.

Certain plants, including European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, philodendron, and tree turmeric, contain the chemical berberine.

Berberine is a yellow compound with a bitter taste. Those with specific heart diseases may benefit from its potential to enhance the heartbeat. Additionally, it may help control how the body uses blood sugar, eliminate bacteria, and lessen edema.

Berberine is most frequently used to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol or other lipids. Additionally, it is claimed to treat burns, canker sores, liver illness, and a host of other ailments, but many of these claims lack solid scientific backing.

What is berberine?

Numerous plants, such as Oregon grape, barberry, goldenseal, and others, contain berberine. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine have traditionally used plants that contain berberine. Berberine-containing plants have been utilized in contemporary times to treat a variety of ailments, including infections, skin concerns, and digestive issues. The effects of berberine on diabetes and heart disease risk factors are currently being investigated. It has gained popularity recently as a possible weight loss tool.

A variety of plants, notably a genus of shrubs known as Berberis, contain the bioactive chemical berberine. In technical terms, it is a member of the alkaloids class of chemicals. It is frequently used as a dye and is yellow.

In traditional Chinese medicine, berberine has long been used to treat a variety of illnesses. According to current research, it offers remarkable advantages for a variety of health issues.

How does it operate?

Berberine has been evaluated in hundreds of investigations. According to certain animal research, berberine’s primary mechanism of action involves activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme found inside cells.

AMPK is present in all of your body’s cells and is essential for controlling energy levels and metabolism.

Additionally, berberine influences other substances within cells and may even influence which genes are activated or inactive. This may offer protection against a variety of long-term illnesses.

Berberine has been shown in numerous studies to dramatically reduce blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

It appears to function through several mechanisms and could be beneficial:

• Reduce insulin resistance to improve the effectiveness of the blood sugar-lowering hormone insulin and enhance glycolysis to aid in the breakdown of glucose within cells.
• Delay the breakdown of carbs in your intestines and reduce the amount of sugar your liver produces.
• Boost the quantity of good bacteria in your stomach.

One gram of berberine daily reduced fasting blood sugar by 20% in 116 diabetics in a 2008 research.

It also improved blood lipid levels, including triglycerides and cholesterol, and reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a measure of long-term blood sugar management, by 12%.

An earlier evaluation of 14 research suggested that berberine might be just as effective as some oral diabetes medications, such as glipizide, rosiglitazone, and metformin.

It has additive effects when used with other blood sugar-lowering medications and works very well when combined with lifestyle modifications.

Advantages

Research suggests that berberine may help treat the following conditions.

• Bacterial infections
• Berberine may have antibacterial properties. According to a 2022 study, berberine assisted in preventing Staphylococcus aureus from growing.

Numerous health issues can be brought on by S. aureus, including:

• Meningitis, sepsis, pneumonia, and other skin disorders
• According to a different study, berberine can harm some bacteria’s proteins and DNA.

The inflammation

Several illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease, are significantly influenced by inflammation.

Berberine may help treat diabetes and other inflammation-related illnesses because research indicates that it has anti-inflammatory qualities.

Berberine may be effective in treating diabetes, according to research. According to studies, it can benefit the following:

Insulin, triglycerides, and blood sugar

According to one analysis of the research, berberine reduced blood sugar more effectively than a placebo.

According to the same investigation, berberine and blood-sugar-lowering medications work better together than they do separately.

Research from 2014 indicates that berberine may be a promising treatment for diabetes, particularly for people who are unable to use current anti-diabetic medications because of heart disease, liver failure, or renal issues.

According to a different analysis of the literature, berberine, and lifestyle modifications were more effective at lowering blood glucose than lifestyle modifications alone.

AMP-activated protein kinase appears to be triggered by berberine, which may assist control how the body uses blood sugar. This activation, according to researchers, may aid in the treatment of diabetes and associated conditions including obesity and high cholesterol.

A further meta-analysis from 2020 revealed improvements in metabolic parameters and body weight without a discernible increase in liver enzymes.

To completely ascertain the safety and effectiveness of berberine, researchers must carry out additional extensive, double-blind investigations.

Before taking berberine for diabetes, consult a physician. It might not be suitable for everyone and might interfere with other prescription drugs.

Elevated cholesterol

Elevated levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol may raise the risk of stroke and heart disease.

Berberine may help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, according to some studies. According to one review, berberine has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering properties in both human and animal experiments.

It might aid in raising high-density lipoprotein, or “good,” cholesterol and lowering LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol.

According to a review of the research, berberine, and lifestyle modifications are more effective at lowering high cholesterol than lifestyle modifications alone.

Being overweight

A prevalent condition, obesity can raise the risk of:

• Heart disease and type 2 diabetes
• Elevated blood pressure
• Elevated cholesterol

According to one analysis, individuals who took 750 mg of barberry twice a day for three months saw a notable drop in weight. Berberine is found in high concentrations in the barberry plant.

Additionally, a double-blind study discovered that taking 200 mg of barberry three times a day decreased body mass index readings in those with metabolic syndrome.

Another study’s team noticed that berberine might stimulate brown adipose tissue. Increased activation of this tissue may aid in the treatment of metabolic syndrome and obesity since it aids the body in converting food into heat.

According to some studies, berberine and metformin, a medication that doctors frequently give to treat type 2 diabetes, function similarly. Berberine may be able to alter gut flora, which could aid in the treatment of diabetes and obesity.

Ovarian polycystic syndrome

A female with elevated amounts of specific male hormones is said to have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Infertility and other health problems can result from the condition, which is a hormonal and metabolic imbalance.

Berberine may help with several problems associated with PCOS. A person with PCOS, for instance, may also have: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, elevated body weight, or both diabetes and insulin levels.

To treat PCOS, doctors occasionally prescribe the diabetes medication metformin. Berberine may be a viable therapy option for PCOS because it seems to have effects that are comparable to those of metformin.

Berberine has promise as a therapy for PCOS with insulin resistance, according to a systematic study. The authors note that additional research will be necessary to confirm these benefits.

Cancer

Berberine can alter cell molecules, which may prove advantageous in the battle against cancer.

According to one review, berberine has “clear inhibitory effects” on the malignancies listed below:

• Cancer of the colorectal region
• Lung cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Cancer of the prostate
• Carcinoma of the liver
• Cervical cancer

According to another study, berberine aids in the treatment of cancer by disrupting the disease’s normal life cycle and advancement. It might also contribute to the destruction of cancer cells.

The authors claim that berberine is “highly expected to be effective, safe, and affordable” as a cancer-fighting drug in light of this data.

It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that scientists have only examined berberine’s effects on cancer cells in a lab setting—not on human beings.

Digestive Health

According to some studies released in 2020, berberine may have a positive impact on gut flora, which could explain its potential to treat illnesses like diabetes, cancer, inflammation, and more. Researchers have discovered connections between these disorders and the gut microbiome, which is made up of bacterial colonies in the stomach.

Because of its antibacterial properties, berberine appears to eliminate the bad bacteria in the stomach and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Although research on people and rodents has indicated that this may be the case, scientists warn that additional study is required to determine the effects of berberine on humans and its safety.

Will berberine aid with weight loss?

Although there is inconclusive data, some research indicates that it might.

According to a 2022 review of 18 studies that looked at berberine’s effects on body weight and 23 that looked at its effects on body mass index (BMI), a figure based on height and weight that can help determine whether a person is at a healthy weight, berberine users significantly reduced their weight and BMI.

The majority of those who took berberine for more than eight weeks and in doses greater than one gram per day saw weight-related effects. The results of individual research were uneven, and a large number of the studies that were part of this evaluation had a significant risk of bias.

Therefore, to draw firm conclusions regarding whether berberine lowers weight and BMI, more excellent research would be required.

Because the dosages and formulations of berberine used in various research have varied greatly and because the majority of study participants had health issues such as diabetes or fatty liver disease, which may have affected the results, evaluating the benefits of berberine is especially challenging. Furthermore, very few research examining the effects of berberine on cardiovascular risk factors and weight were carried out in North America; the majority were carried out in Asian nations.

Add-ons

According to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP), berberine supplements come in the form of capsules or supplements.

The majority of people take 500 mg three times a day, although numerous studies recommend taking 900–1,500 mg daily, they note. Before using berberine, however, the AANP advises consumers to consult a physician to determine the dosage and safety of the drug.

The AANP advises consumers to look for third-party certification, such as that from the National Science Foundation (NSF) or NSF International, on the product label even if a physician certifies that berberine is safe to use.

A 2018 study’s authors discovered significant differences in the contents of different berberine capsules, which may cause misunderstandings regarding dosing and safety. They discovered that a higher price did not always correspond to a better product.

Supplements are not subject to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation. A supplement’s efficacy or safety cannot be guaranteed, and product quality cannot always be confirmed.

Berberine may aid with weight loss.

Additionally, berberine might work well as a supplement for weight loss.

In a previous 12-week trial of obese individuals, ingesting 500 mg of berberine three times a day resulted in an average weight loss of approximately 5 pounds. Additionally, the subjects’ body fat decreased by 3.6%.

Furthermore, a study of 12 trials revealed that using berberine supplements significantly decreased belly fat, body weight, and body mass index. Additionally, it reduced C-reactive protein levels, which are an indicator of inflammation.

Additionally, berberine seems to molecularly prevent fat cells from growing, which may aid in weight loss. The possible effects of berberine on weight loss, however, require further investigation.

Side effects and dosage

Doses between 500 and 1,500 mg daily were utilized in a number of the research referenced in the article.

Typically, 500 mg is taken three times daily before meals, for a daily total of 1,500 mg. Certain drugs may interact with berberine. Avoid using it along with cyclosporine.

Before consuming berberine, see a healthcare provider if you are taking any drugs or have a medical condition. This is particularly crucial if you are taking medicine that lowers blood sugar.

Berberine has an exceptional safety profile all around. Digestion-related side effects are the most common, with some people reporting bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Applications and Efficiency

It might work well for canker sores. Canker sores can be made less painful, red, oozing, and larger by applying a gel that contains berberine.

• Diabetes. Berberine taken orally appears to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics by a small amount.

• Helicobacter pylori, also known as H. pylori, is an infection of the digestive tract that can cause ulcers. In addition to existing recognized treatments for this ailment, berberine taken orally may be effective when combined with many drugs that are often used to treat it. Multiple drugs are also used in these additional therapies.

• Elevated blood fat or cholesterol levels (hyperlipidemia). Berberine taken orally, either by itself or in combination with other components, may help lower triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad”), and total cholesterol levels in individuals with high cholesterol.

• Elevated blood pressure. In patients with high blood pressure, taking 0.9 grams of berberine orally every day in addition to the blood pressure-lowering medication amlodipine lowers blood pressure more effectively than taking amlodipine alone.

• PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome. Berberine taken orally may help persons with PCOS by lowering blood sugar, improving their triglyceride and cholesterol levels, lowering their testosterone levels, and decreasing their waist-to-hip ratio.

Numerous more uses for berberine are being considered, but not enough solid data is available to determine if they could be beneficial.

Adverse Reactions

Berberine may be safe for most individuals to use orally. For six months, dosages up to 1.5 grams per day were taken safely. Constipation, gas, upset stomach, and diarrhea are typical adverse effects.

When used topically, berberine may be safe for most individuals to use for brief periods.

Particular Care and Caution

Berberine may be safe for most individuals to use orally. For six months, dosages up to 1.5 grams per day were taken safely. Constipation, gas, upset stomach, and diarrhea are typical adverse effects.

When used topically, berberine may be safe for most individuals to use for brief periods.

• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, using berberine orally is probably not advised. Because it can cross the placenta, berberine may be harmful to the developing.
• Fetus: Newborns exposed to berberine have suffered a form of brain injury called kernel icterus.
• Breastfeeding: Taking berberine while nursing is probably not safe. Breast milk can introduce berberine to the baby, which could be harmful.
• Kids: Berberine is probably not safe to administer to infants. In neonates with severe jaundice, it can result in kernicterus, a rare form of brain damage. There is insufficient trustworthy data to determine whether berberine is safe for older kids.

It may lower your risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Currently, the world’s top cause of death is heart disease. An elevated risk of heart disease is linked to several blood-measurable variables. It turns out that several of these factors are improved by berberine.

A study of sixteen studies suggests that it could be beneficial:

• Lower the overall cholesterol level.
• Reduce bad cholesterol or LDL.
• Lower the triglycerides in the blood.
• Raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

In some earlier studies, it was also found to reduce apolipoprotein B, a significant risk factor for heart disease, by 13–15%.

Some studies suggest that berberine functions by blocking an enzyme known as PCSK9. As a result, your bloodstream gets cleared of more LDL cholesterol.

This supplement appears to help alleviate obesity, diabetes, and high blood sugar, all of which are significant risk factors for heart disease.

Although additional research is required, it appears likely that berberine could lower the risk of heart disease given its positive impact on all of these risk variables.

Additional health advantages

Numerous more health advantages of berberine may include:

• Depression: Research on animals indicates that it might lessen depressive symptoms.
• Cancer: Research on animals and test tubes indicates that it may slow the development and spread of certain cancer forms.
• Inflammation and oxidative stress: In certain animal and test-tube tests, it has demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Infections: Research conducted in test tubes indicates that it may inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, such as specific kinds of bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Fatty liver: It might lessen hepatic fat accumulation, which might help prevent NAFLD.
• Heart failure: According to a previous study, it helped patients with heart failure feel better and lower their chance of dying.

Although the current evidence is encouraging, more research is needed to fully understand many of these benefits before making definite recommendations.

Is berberine safe?

Before using berberine-containing products, people should consult their physician.

The NCCIH lists the following potential hazards:

• Metformin is one drug that berberine may interact with.
• The amount of an active ingredient in a supplement may not always be obvious, which could result in the incorrect dosage being taken.
• People who are vulnerable or who ingest excessive amounts may experience negative effects.
• Scientific evidence supporting the long-term safety of goldenseal and other berberine preparations is insufficient.
• Berberine use during pregnancy or lactation may be harmful to the developing fetus or baby.

Research studies have documented certain adverse effects of berberine, mostly related to the gastrointestinal tract, including bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.

Berberine and medications may interact. For instance, it has been demonstrated to interact with the medication cyclosporine, which is used to stop organ rejection. If you are thinking about taking berberine supplements and you take medication, see your doctor.

Berberine exposure has been connected to a dangerous bilirubin accumulation in babies, which can lead to brain damage. Because of the potential effects on the fetus or infant, berberine is therefore probably dangerous for babies and may also be unsafe to use during pregnancy or while nursing.

What are the primary disadvantages of berberine?

More long-term safety research is required, even though berberine seems to be generally safe. Some people have had gastrointestinal negative effects with berberine supplements, including flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain, particularly when taking doses greater than 300 mg per day.

In large dosages, berberine may raise the risk of hypoglycemia because of its capacity to lower blood sugar. Furthermore, when used with other drugs or supplements, berberine may cause dangerous drug interactions since it inhibits some enzymes involved in drug metabolism.

Takeaways from Berberine

The substance berberine, which is present in several plants, including Oregon grape and European barberry, has been used medicinally for more than 3,000 years. It may be useful in improving gut health and treating diseases like diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and PCOS. Even though some research indicates that it can aid in weight loss, more reliable data is required before it can be compared to FDA-approved medications like Ozempic.

Additionally, berberine may have certain adverse effects. For instance, in certain individuals, it may result in low blood pressure and intestinal problems. Because of its effects on the liver, it may also make other medications less effective.

A substance called berberine has been linked to several advantages, including as improved heart health, enhanced weight loss, and lowered blood sugar levels.

Numerous options are available online if you would want to try a berberine supplement. Before incorporating it into your regimen, though, make sure to consult a healthcare provider and use it exactly as prescribed.

FAQs

Reference

• BERBERINE: Overview, uses, side effects, precautions, interactions, dosing, and reviews. (n.d.). https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1126/berberine
• BSc, K. G. (2023, June 13). Berberine – is a powerful supplement with many benefits. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/berberine-powerful-supplement#bottom-line
• Berry, J. (2023, October 20). Everything you need to know about Berberine. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325798#faq
• Berberine and weight loss: what you need to know. (n.d.). NCCIH. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/berberine-and-weight-loss-what-you-need-to-know