Berberine is a bioactive compound from a range of plants grown throughout the globe.

Overview

Berberine has proposed benefits ranging from relieving canker sores to managing blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes. This supplement also has a history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Special functions

Berberine has a well-documented benefit for managing cellular oxidative stress. It improves the function of antioxidant enzymes and reduces the levels of reactive oxygen species in the body’s cells.

Orally supplementing with berberine may also improve clinical outcomes for individuals managing Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. These benefits are most notable when berberine is added to conventional pharmaceuticals. Individuals struggling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may note improvements in blood glucose management and blood lipid control when berberine is supplemented. Berberine has been documented to improve stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori when used in combination with relevant medicines.

Short-term, topical application of berberine can help relieve canker sores, reducing pain, redness, and the size of the sores.

Recently, berberine has been promoted as a supplement to support weight loss, however, this benefit has not been confirmed with other studies.

Many other benefits of berberine have been suggested, but further research is needed to confirm efficacy and dosage.

Recommended intakes and toxicity

Orally, berberine can be safely consumed at levels of one and one-half grams per day for up to six months and one gram per day for up to 24 months in adults. Side effects of berberine supplementation may include digestive symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

Topically, berberine can be applied for up to 20 days, but a safe dosage has not been confirmed.

Berberine can enhance the effectiveness of certain medications, as noted previously. As a result, it is imperative to monitor side effects when taking berberine with medications that support blood thinning, affect liver enzyme function, and reduce blood pressure. Because the benefit of berberine is frequently realized when taken in conjunction with pharmaceutical interventions, it is of the utmost importance to talk with your health care provider (HCP) before adding berberine.

(Environmental Nutrition is the award-winning independent newsletter written by nutrition experts dedicated to providing readers up-to-date, accurate information about health and nutrition in clear, concise English. For more information, visit www.environmentalnutrition.com.)

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