berberyna

Berberine, also known as berberina in some languages, is a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid found in several plant species, particularly in the Berberis genus (barberry), Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal), and Coptis chinensis (huanglian). It has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, where it has been employed to treat gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea, and inflammatory conditions. Berberine is the principal active constituent of these plants and can be isolated as a yellowish crystalline powder.

Berberine exerts effects through multiple mechanisms. It strongly activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), influences glucose and lipid metabolism, and shows antimicrobial activity against bacteria, protozoa, and fungi. Oral bioavailability is relatively low due to limited absorption and rapid first-pass metabolism by the gut microbiota and liver. The compound may act on several cellular pathways, including inflammatory signaling and mitochondrial function in some microbes.

In modern trials, berberine has been studied for metabolic syndrome components such as type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. Some randomized controlled trials report modest reductions in fasting glucose, HbA1c, and LDL cholesterol, but results vary and study quality is heterogeneous. It has also been explored for antimicrobial use and as an adjunct in oncology in preclinical models. Berberine is usually taken as a dietary supplement; it is not approved as a standard pharmaceutical treatment in most countries.

Common adverse effects are gastrointestinal, including diarrhea and constipation. Berberine can interact with drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes and may affect blood sugar and lipid levels, so supervision by a healthcare professional is advised, especially in pregnancy, lactation, or when combined with other medications.