Goldthread Extract
Also known as: Goldthread, Huang Lian, *Coptis chinensis*
Overview
Goldthread is derived from the plant *Coptis chinensis*, native to China, and historically used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for various health issues, including digestive disorders and infections. Its active compound, berberine, is noted for potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Current research is limited, with few systematic reviews and clinical trials dedicated specifically to goldthread extract. Most existing evidence relies on traditional applications and small-scale studies without substantial clinical backing, leading to uncertainty about its effectiveness and safety in medicinal use.
Benefits
The evidence supporting the health benefits of goldthread extract is currently insufficient. While berberine, a significant active compound in goldthread, has been investigated for its potential effects on blood sugar regulation and antimicrobial activity, these studies often involve other herbs or compounds, limiting direct applicability to goldthread. No notable benefits are documented for specific populations or conditions. As a result, the clinical significance and effect sizes associated with goldthread extract remain unclear and poorly defined.
How it works
Berberine, the primary active ingredient in goldthread, may exert influence on various metabolic pathways and demonstrate antimicrobial properties. It interacts with biological systems impacting digestion and metabolism. Berberine is known to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a role in regulating energy metabolism. However, the specific mechanisms of action for goldthread extract itself require further investigation, and the bioavailability of its active compounds remains largely unexplored.
Side effects
The safety profile of goldthread extract is poorly documented, with limited information available on both common and rare side effects. There are concerns about potential drug interactions, particularly with medications metabolized by the liver, such as cyclosporine. Due to the berberine content, goldthread is likely unsafe during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in children, as there is a risk of bilirubin increase in infants. Without established safety thresholds or comprehensive documentation of adverse effects, caution is advised when considering its use.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established effective dosages for goldthread extract. Optimal and maximum safe doses remain undefined, given the limited research availability. Timing of administration and absorption factors have not been evaluated thoroughly, emphasizing the need for cautious use and consultation with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing if considered.
FAQs
Is goldthread safe during pregnancy?
Goldthread is likely unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its berberine content, which poses potential risks.
What are the expected health benefits of goldthread?
Due to limited research, expected health benefits of goldthread extract are unclear, with most evidence stemming from traditional uses.
Can children take goldthread extract?
Goldthread is likely unsafe for children, particularly infants, due to associated risks such as bilirubin increase.
What are the possible side effects of goldthread?
Common and uncommon side effects of goldthread are not well-documented; potential drug interactions exist.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.956313/full – This article discusses pharmacological effects of berberine, highlighting its therapeutic potential across various conditions, though it lacks specific focus on goldthread.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0160253 – This study presents insights into the effects of berberine in metabolic health, emphasizing its promising future, but does not directly involve goldthread extract.
- https://f1000research.com/articles/13-790 – This article reviews the broader applications of berberine in health supplements, providing context on its potential benefits without direct evidence for goldthread.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-471/goldthread – WebMD provides a general overview of goldthread, outlining its traditional uses and components while acknowledging the lack of substantial scientific backing.
