Berberine – 8 Possible Benefits

May 2, 2026      Jane Jackson, RN, CRC       BHealthyRN

Berberine was searched 368,000 times in April 2026 according to Wordstream.  So, what is berberine and why are so many people searching for it.

Berberine has been a part of Chinese and Hindu medicine for thousands of years. Studies from the early 1920s found the dietary supplement berberine may have helped support degenerative diseases by processing free radicals and inhibiting the activity of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Berberine activates an enzyme called AMP-Activated Protean Kinase (AMPK) that regulates many bodily functions including metabolism and energy levels.

Eight beneficial – not proven – claims include:

• Stabilizing metabolic health
• Supporting  digestive health
• Fortifying the immune system
• Benefiting the respiratory system
• Supporting the healthy function of the Hepatic, Lymphatic, Urinary, Reproductive, Central Nervous, Endocrine Systems
• Reduces skin integrity issues
• Supporting metabolic stability

Berberine is found in many plants, although, most are uncommon in the United States. This results in most berberine intake being in the form of dietary supplements.

The most common sources of berberine are barberry and goldenseal. Barberry contains high levels of berberine in its bark and root. Other essential nutrients available in barberry include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and vitamin C. Barberry is available in capsules, fluid extracts, tinctures, and as a topical ointment. The alcohol-free extract is usually the best form. The dried roots of barberry can also be added to tea.

Goldenseal – sometimes called orangeroot or yellow puccoon – is another common source of berberine. Significant levels of berberine can be found in the root system. It is a member of the buttercup family and native to North America. Benefits of dietary goldenseal include the additional nutrients – calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamin B1, B2, B3, and vitamin C.

Clinical trials show berberine is generally safe for most adults. It’s been used safely in doses of up to 1.5 grams daily for six months. As a caution, only use this dietary supplement under your healthcare professional’s supervision.

This supplement should not be taken when

• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Allergic to ragweed.
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Ongoing metabolic or hormonal treatments
• Diagnosed with eye related condition

The most reported side effects include diarrhea, constipation, gas, and nausea.

The US Food and Drug Administration has not cleared berberine for prescription or over-the-counter medicinal use. Notices are sent regularly to manufacturers making fraudulent and misleading claims on their packaging or advertisements.

This information has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not approved to cure, treat, or prevent a disease. Consult a healthcare professional before starting a dietary supplement, especially if you have medical conditions or prescribed medications. This article is for educational purposes and not to replace the advice of your healthcare professional.