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Berberis vulgaris extract

Also known as: Berberis vulgaris L., Barberry, European barberry, Berberis vulgaris

Overview

Berberis vulgaris extract is derived from the barberry plant, primarily from its roots and fruits. It contains bioactive alkaloids, notably berberine, which have been studied for various health effects. The extract is traditionally used for metabolic and cardiovascular health support. Research on Berberis vulgaris extract is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses available, particularly focusing on lipid metabolism and glycemic control. The quality of evidence is generally good, with multiple RCTs meeting rigorous criteria and meta-analyses synthesizing these data. Berberis vulgaris is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, and the extract is produced by isolating and concentrating the beneficial compounds from the plant material.

Benefits

Berberis vulgaris extract has several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis showed significant reductions in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol. Another meta-analysis found significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR, indicating improved insulin sensitivity and glycemic control. Evidence suggests potential benefits in reducing transaminase activities in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, although data are less extensive and require further confirmation. These effects have been primarily studied in adults with dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes. The lipid-lowering effects are clinically meaningful, with reductions in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides comparable to some pharmacological interventions. Benefits typically manifest within several weeks to a few months.

How it works

Berberine, the main active alkaloid in Berberis vulgaris, activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which regulates lipid and glucose metabolism. It influences hepatic lipid metabolism, reduces cholesterol synthesis, enhances insulin sensitivity, and modulates inflammatory pathways. Molecular targets include AMPK activation, inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory complex I, and modulation of LDL receptor expression. Berberine has low oral bioavailability but exerts systemic effects possibly through gut microbiota modulation and local intestinal actions.

Side effects

Berberis vulgaris extract is generally safe and well-tolerated in doses used in clinical trials. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain. Uncommon side effects include headache and nausea. Rare side effects include allergic reactions. Potential drug interactions exist with cytochrome P450 substrates and P-glycoprotein substrates; caution is advised with anticoagulants and antihypertensives. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment.

Dosage

Clinical trials used varying doses; berberine content typically ranged from 500 mg to 1500 mg daily. An optimal dosage range is around 500 mg two to three times daily standardized to berberine content. Up to 1500 mg/day appears safe in short-term studies. Divided doses with meals may improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Standardized extracts with quantified berberine content are preferred. Co-administration with absorption enhancers (e.g., piperine) may improve bioavailability. No specific cofactors are required, but overall nutritional status may influence efficacy.

FAQs

Is Berberis vulgaris extract safe for long-term use?

Long-term safety data are limited; short-term use up to a few months is generally safe. Consult with a healthcare provider for extended use.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Improvements in lipid and glycemic parameters are typically observed within 8-12 weeks of consistent use.

Can it replace medications?

It may complement but should not replace prescribed lipid-lowering or antidiabetic medications without medical supervision.

Does it cause weight loss?

Some evidence suggests modest weight and BMI reductions, but effects are secondary and less robust.

Research Sources

  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30935518/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (n=339) showed that barberry supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol. The study indicates that Berberis vulgaris can be effective in improving lipid profiles, suggesting its potential role in managing cardiovascular risk factors.
  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39413550/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (n=547) found that Berberis vulgaris significantly decreased fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and insulin resistance markers. The findings suggest that Berberis vulgaris can improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity, making it a potential adjunct therapy for managing diabetes.
  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1013055/full – This study suggests potential benefits of Berberis vulgaris on liver enzymes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, indicating hepatoprotective effects. However, the authors note that the data are preliminary and require further large-scale RCTs to confirm these findings.
  • https://examine.com/research-feed/study/dZXBp0/ – This research feed summarizes a study on Berberis vulgaris, highlighting its potential benefits in improving various health markers. The summary emphasizes the importance of considering the study's limitations and the need for further research to validate the findings.
  • http://eprints.mui.ac.ir/10099/1/10099.pdf – This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Berberis vulgaris, covering its traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological activities. It highlights the potential of Berberis vulgaris in managing various health conditions, emphasizing the need for further research to fully understand its therapeutic potential.

Supplements Containing Berberis vulgaris extract

Para ProteX by calivita
58

Para ProteX

calivita

Score: 58/100
ULTRA ELITE 3 3-in-1 Men's Performance Matrix by ApexLabs
60

ULTRA ELITE 3 3-in-1 Men's Performance Matrix

ApexLabs

Score: 60/100
Berberine 1000mg with Black Pepper Extract & Chromium by HIVITAL foods
78

Berberine 1000mg with Black Pepper Extract & Chromium

HIVITAL foods

Score: 78/100
WellBetX Berberine 1000 mg by natural factors
78

WellBetX Berberine 1000 mg

natural factors

Score: 78/100
Berberine 1000mg with Black Pepper Extract & Chromium by HIVITAL foods
83

Berberine 1000mg with Black Pepper Extract & Chromium

HIVITAL foods

Score: 83/100
Berberine HCl by bioclinic naturals®
83

Berberine HCl

bioclinic naturals®

Score: 83/100

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