Goldenseal
Overview
A compound found in Oregon grape, barberry and goldenseal, berberine is useful in resolving several complications related to high blood sugar.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the medicinal use of barberry (https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/barberry) dates back more than 2,500 years.
What are the known benefits?
Most amazingly, a study of women with PCOS found that berberine compared favorably with metformin using certain criteria. Another study with type 2 diabetics found that the hypoglycemic effect of berberine was similar to that of metformin.
Any other potential benefits?
Barberry (the red leaves and berries shown in the title bar) and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) both contain the chemical berberine, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria in test tubes, and may help the immune system function better. It also has been shown to reduce serum cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-C.
Any reports debunking these benefits?
Barberry
The compound remains controversial, though much of the negative research applies to in vitro studies. It’s clear more research is needed, but don’t hold your breath, because as a natural substance berberine cannot be patented and therefore is no of use to pharmaceutical companies with deep pockets.
What is the scientific mechanism at play?
Berberine activates the AMPK pathways. AMPK, which is in all mammals, normalizes lipids and glucose. This good explanation equates berberine with having the same effect as decreasing calorie intake while increasing exercise.
Conclusion
Meanwhile, if you take berberine, try to get it from reputable sources. Better yet, take it in a whole herb form, says xxxx
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