When to take it
With food, the dose usually split into 2–3 servings a day (better tolerated).
← All supplements
OtherModerate evidence
Berberine
Also known as: berberine HCl, barberry (Berberis), goldenseal
Berberine is a yellow plant alkaloid from barberry and other plants, used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. It affects sugar and fat metabolism and is therefore studied for raised blood glucose and cholesterol.
What it is used for
- Lower fasting glucose and HbA1c – moderate evidence, mostly from smaller studies
- Lower LDL and triglycerides – moderate evidence
- Modest weight loss – weak evidence
Forms and how they differ
berberine HCl
the most common and best studied form
dihydroberberine
claimed to be better absorbed, less data
berberine + chromium
a blood-glucose combination, quality depends on the label
Pairs well with
A low glycaemic-load diet, exercise.
Do not combine / separate
Be careful with diabetes medicines (risk of hypoglycaemia) and with medicines broken down by liver CYP enzymes – berberine can change their levels.
Watch out for
Not suitable in pregnancy, while breastfeeding or for newborns. With liver or kidney disease, diabetes and when taking any medicines (especially for diabetes, cholesterol, immunosuppressants, anticoagulants), consult your doctor.
Safety
Do not exceed the label dose. Digestive complaints (constipation, diarrhoea, bloating) are common.
Practical tip
If your blood sugar is raised, have glucose and lipids checked before you start and after 2–3 months.
Products containing Berberine 6
Berberine HClHCl
BerberineHCl enhanced
Berberine + chromium+ chromium
Berberine + Bitter melon + Milk thistleblend
Berberinephytosome
Berberineliposomal
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check Berberine with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
AlfalfaNo evidenceAndrographisWeak evidenceAroniaWeak evidenceBarley grassWeak evidenceBee pollenWeak evidenceBeef organs (desiccated)Weak evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.