What is Berberine? Everything You Need to Know About This Natural Supplement

What is berberine and where does it come from? 

Berberine is a plant compound that belongs to the alkaloids. These natural substances are primarily found in the roots, bark, and stems of plants such as Berberis (barberry), Coptis chinensis (Chinese goldthread), and Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal). Berberine has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. 

The bright yellow colour also made it popular as a dye for fabrics and leather. However, it is the health benefits that are garnering attention today. 

How does berberine work in your body? 

What makes berberine unique is that it influences various processes in your body. The most significant? It activates an enzyme called AMPK – also known as the ‘energy master enzyme’. AMPK helps your body use energy more efficiently and thus plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels, among other things. 

The main health benefits of berberine 

1. Contributes to maintaining normal triglyceride levels in the blood*
2. Helps to support a natural blood sugar level*
3. Supports the liver's cleansing function* 

*Health claims pending approval by the European Commission. 

Potential side effects and interactions of berberine 

Generally, berberine is well-tolerated. At higher doses, some people may experience mild gastrointestinal issues such as cramps or diarrhoea. Are you taking medication, especially for blood sugar or blood pressure? Always consult with your healthcare provider as berberine can affect the efficacy of these medications. 

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended. Berberine is also not suitable for children unless advised by a professional. 

The dosage of berberine: how much do you need? 

The most common dosage is 500 mg, one to three times a day, preferably with meals. This amounts to a total daily dosage of 500 to 1,500 mg. Since berberine has a short half-life, it is important to spread the doses throughout the day for optimal effect. 

Some new formulations contain berberine in an 'enhanced' form, such as berberine phytosome or dihydroberberine. These are better absorbed and can therefore be effective at lower dosages. 

Where can you buy berberine supplements and what should you look for? 

Berberine is available at health food stores, pharmacies, and of course at Vitaminstore. When purchasing, pay attention to: 

• Dosage per capsule – ideally 500 mg
• Purity – choose a supplement without unnecessary additives
• Form of berberine – standard berberine or a more absorbable variant?
• Certifications and quality – choose a reputable brand that tests for purity and efficacy

Need help choosing a berberine supplement? Our health coaches are ready to assist you – in-store or online. 

Good to know 

Berberine is a powerful natural supplement that supports your body in multiple ways. Thanks to centuries of use and modern science, we are learning more about the function and safety of this remarkable compound. Considering adding berberine to your routine? Get well-informed, opt for quality, and combine it with a healthy lifestyle. This way, you will make the most of this ingredient. 

Sources 

• Xie, W. et al. (2022). Glucose-lowering effect of berberine on type 2 diabetes. Frontiers in Pharmacology.
• Sahebkar, A. et al. (2015). Lipid-lowering effects of berberine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine.
• Zhang, Y. et al. (2008). Beneficial effects of berberine in the treatment of metabolic syndrome. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
• Kong, W. et al. (2004). Berberine is a novel cholesterol-lowering drug working through a unique mechanism distinct from statins. Nature Medicine.
• Imenshahidi, M. & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2019). Berberine and barberry: A clinical review. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences.