Berberine HCL Supplement Review, How To Take & Safety Guide

Berberine, an alkaloid found in certain plants, has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

This alkaloid is derived from the rhizomes, stem bark and roots of several plants, such as European barberry (Berberis vulgaris), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), phellodendron, Coptis chinensis (goldenthread), and Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium). [1]

Berberine is available for consumers to use as an oral supplement. Many of these products contain berberine hydrochloride, or berberine HCL, a water-soluble form that is dissolved in the gastrointestinal system and absorbed in the bloodstream.

This supplement is well-researched with clinical studies demonstrating efficacy for several uses. Berberine HCL capsules can be purchased as single-ingredient products or in complexes with other ingredients targeted for specific health benefits.

Those who plan on taking berberine hydrochloride tablets or other supplements with this alkaloid should first understand why it is used, how it is used and what kinds of effects it has. Consumers should also know the possible side effects and interactions of berberine HCL supplements.

Berberine

Herbal Extract

Heart Health

Immunity

Gut Health

How It Works:

• Supports immune function & digestion
• Supports blood sugar metabolism
• Maintain cardivascular health & lipid levels

Dosage:

Between 900 - 1200 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Common Uses of Berberine Hydrochloride

According to one manufacturer, “Berberine HCL (Hydrochloride) Extract is a quaternary ammonium salt from the protoberberine group of isoquinoline alkaloids.”

Berberine hydrochloride supplements are used for several different purposes. They have been used for managing blood glucose levels in those who have type 2 diabetes and in supporting normal insulin sensitivity.

These supplements have also been used for reducing cholesterol levels, supporting a healthy heart, weight management and by women with polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS.

This supplement is also purported to promote digestive health, boost the immune system and combat the growth of pathogenic bacteria and yeast in the intestinal tract.

Other uses for berberine HCL include obesity, reducing the risk of viral infections such as the flu, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome and symptoms associated with menopause. Berberine HCL has also been used for H. pylori infections, yeast infections and glaucoma, although there is limited research available for its use in the treatment of glaucoma.

Berberine hydrochloride is also used in topical form for promoting healing for burns and lowering the risk of infection. It is also used in topical form for managing a bacterial infection called trachoma, which affects the eyes.

Topical solutions have also been used to support female urogenital tract health and to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria or yeast colonies.

Effects of Berberine HCL

Berberine is rated as Likely Effective when used in patients with Type 2 diabetes, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. [2]

This alkaloid has the ability to inhibit protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B, or PTP1B, which might improve insulin resistance in those with diabetes.

It can also inhibit gluconeogenesis in the liver, which may help to maintain normal blood sugar balance and reduce some of the negative effects linked to hyperglycemia.

It has been shown to reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, which is a measure of glycation in the body. Glycation can have long-lasting harmful consequences for overall health, longevity, cognitive function, the cardiovascular system and more.

A 2010 study that appeared in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications indicated that berberine was effective at improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing blood glucose levels when used in diabetic mice. [3]

Berberine also has the ability to activate AMPK, or adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. This enzyme is involved with metabolism and thermogenesis (the generation of heat) in the body.

Berberine’s activation of AMPK has been studied for its effects on lipid levels in those with type 2 diabetes. A 2008 study that appeared in Metabolism showed that berberine led to significantly lower cholesterol levels in subjects with type 2 diabetes and lowered fasting plasma insulin levels. [4]

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, there is not enough evidence to evaluate claims that berberine HCL supplements are effective for PCOS, obesity, congestive heart failure, H. pylori infections, symptoms of menopause or diarrhea. [2] More studies are needed to examine the effectiveness for these uses.

How to Take Berberine Hydrochloride

Berberine HCL supplements are available from online retailers, such as Amazon and GNC, and at local stores that carry wellness products. Consumers should note that some of these products are known as berberine chloride rather than berberine HCL.

These products are available from several manufacturers, including Thorne Research, Biotics Research and Pure Science. Berberine HCL comes in different oral forms, including tablets, capsules and powder.

Consumers will find these products in a wide range of dosages, such as berberine hydrochloride 500mg, 900mg or 1,200mg.

The dosage of berberine hydrochloride that should be taken varies based on different factors, such as underlying health conditions and age. Since there are no standard dosage guidelines available from the FDA, consumers should check with their doctor to find out the exact amount they can safely take.

Based on online user reviews, a large percentage of consumers who take berberine HCL products indicate that they are effective at lowering blood sugar levels and reducing cholesterol levels. Some of these consumers were able to replace Metformin with berberine for controlling blood sugar levels.

A small percentage of consumers who use these products stated that they were not effective. Not everyone will experience the same positive results from taking this natural health product.

Side Effects of Berberine HCL

Berberine HCL supplements are rated Possibly Safe for consumers to take orally for up to 8 weeks at a time in dosages of 2 grams or less, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. [2]

They have the potential to cause some side effects, especially when they are taken in large doses. These side effects include headaches, nausea and vomiting. They might also cause high blood pressure in some individuals.

Pregnant women and women who are nursing should avoid taking berberine HCL supplements. Berberine is rated Likely Unsafe for lactating and pregnant women due to the potential to cause harmful effects in infants and fetuses, according to NMCD. [2]

Berberine hydrochloride supplements should not be given to children without consulting a doctor. This potent plant alkaloid may cause harmful effects if given to preterm neonates with hyperbilirubinemia. It is contraindicated in newborn babies.

Those who take certain medications, such as insulin, benzodiazepine or other CNS depressants, anticoagulants or midazolam, should talk to a doctor before taking berberine HCL tablets or other supplements.

These medications have the potential to interact with berberine. Consumers with diabetes, hypotension or other medical conditions should also consult a doctor before using berberine hydrochloride products.

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