Berberine is a bioactive compound derived from several plants, including Berberis vulgaris (barberry), and has a rich history in traditional medicine. Berberine has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It was primarily utilized for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive health benefits. Ancient texts document its use for treating infections, gastrointestinal disorders, and as a general tonic.

In recent years, berberine has gained attention in the scientific community for its potential health benefits. Studies have shown that it may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve lipid profiles, and support weight loss. Berberine is known to activate AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), which plays a crucial role in cellular energy homeostasis and metabolism. Today, berberine is widely available as a dietary supplement, often marketed for its effects on metabolic health and cardiovascular support.

• Can improve:
  • gout [ i ]
  • gut microbiota disorders [ i ]
  • Helicobacter pylori infections [ b ]
  • hyperlipidemia [ a | i ]
  • non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [ i ]
  • obesity [ a | h | i ]
  • type Ⅱ diabetes [ a | f | h | i ]
• Can prevent:
  • prevent diabetic encephalopathy [ a ]
• Reduces:
  • 2-h plasma blood glucose (2hPBG) [ c | g ]
  • body mass index (BMI) [ e | g ]
  • body weight [ e | h ]
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations [ e ]
  • fasting blood insulin (FINS) [ g ]
  • fasting plasma glucose (FPG) [ c | f | g ]
  • glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) [ c | f | g ]
  • homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [ g ]
  • insulin resistance [ a | g ]
  • low-density lipoprotein (LDL) [ a | g ]
  • total cholesterol (TC) [ a | d | g ]
  • triglycerides (TG) [ a | g | h ]
  • waist circumference [ e ]
• Increases:
  • high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [ a | g ]
• Side-effects:
  • constipation [ b ]
  • diarrhea [ b ]
• Safety profile (A):
  • Safe [ a | c | e | f ]