Best Berberine Supplements Reviewed (2023)

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Considered a powerful compound with many health benefits, Berberine is an ingredient in supplements. [1] It’s a bioactive compound that is withdrawn from several plants and is typically grouped with alkaloids. What’s more, Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine use it extensively because of its impact on cells. Thanks to its excellent benefits, it’s no surprise that the best Berberine supplements are popular.

One of the biggest, if not the biggest, effects of this compound is it reduces blood sugar levels. It’s beneficial for those who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. [2] Moreover, a 2014 study shows that it’s a possible alternative for those who can’t take other diabetic drugs due to other medical conditions. [3]

According to other studies, it may also help with losing weight. Additionally, obese participants lost 5 pounds on average and 3.6% of their body fat by consuming 500 mg of Berberine three times a day. [4] Furthermore, one review shows that berberine may have a cholesterol-lowering impact. [5]

Other health benefits may also include fighting cancer, improving gut health, reducing inflammation, etc. However, more research needs to be conducted in some areas to know the extent of the benefits.

Quick Summary:

Best Berberine Powder Supplement: Bulk Supplements Berberine HCL Powder

Most Content Per Serving: Thorne Research Berberine-500

Best Value For Money: Double Wood Supplements Berberine

Best Berberine Supplements 

Double Wood Supplements Berberine

BERBERINE CONTENT PER SERVING:

500 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$20/60

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 capsule daily, with or directly after a meal

Double Wood Supplements is a well-established brand known for quality and its Berberine capsules are no different. With a Certificate of Analysis and published third-party testing results, this supplement guarantees potency and purity. Moreover, a GMP Quality certificate for meeting standards during the process. 

For its benefits, this Berberine supplement aims to support cardiovascular/heart functions and blood glucose levels. Additionally, its powerful antioxidants may help encourage cognitive functions. According to the brand, it’s best to consult a physician if you take Phosphodiesterase inhibitors and microlide antibiotics. However, user feedback may be hard to come by.

Thorne Research Berberine-500

BERBERINE CONTENT PER SERVING:

1 gram

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$36/60

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1-2 capsules daily

A leading brand in the industry, Thorne Research developed its Berberine-500 supplement with well-researched scientific data to guarantee the benefits it brings. Moreover, the company conducts four rounds of testing using its state-of-the-art facilities to ensure that each product is pure and potent. This supplement contains the highest-quality ingredients to retain its potency up until its expiration date.

Additionally, it intends to support immune function, maintain healthy blood sugar metabolism, and promote gut health. What’s more, it can be used for weight management and to support healthy cholesterol levels.

Based on thousands of user feedback, the consensus is positive. Many are happy as they said that it helped improve their blood sugar levels. Furthermore, a few also said it reduced their cholesterol levels. Others also said they take it for better digestion, improving gut health, and weight support.

Bulk Supplements Berberine HCL Powder

BERBERINE CONTENT PER SERVING:

500 mg

PRICE/SIZE:

~$19/25 grams

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 500 mg (⅕ tsp) once or twice daily

If you don’t want to consume capsules, Bulk Supplements has the Berberine HCI powder for easier consumption. Also, there are several sizes, so users can choose to commit long-term by buying in bulk. This powdered supplement aims to support heart, bones, and liver well-being. Moreover, it may help maintain good glucose levels, improve the digestive system, and promote eye health. It may also be used to assist in sustaining a healthy weight in conjunction with a good diet.

The user feedback is mostly positive, as many mentioned, it helped reduce their blood sugar levels. Some also said they use it for weight loss and commended how easy it was to dissolve into their favorite drinks. However, a few did not like the taste.

Paradise Herbs Berberine

BERBERINE CONTENT PER SERVING:

500 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$32/180

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 capsule once or twice daily

Paradise Herbs is going strong even after 25 years of being in the industry and as a recipient of the Best of Supplements Awards. According to the brand, the capsules contain extract of the bioactive phytonutrients of the plant. This supplement may help activate AMPK, which can boost your energy. Moreover, it helps improve metabolism and lower cholesterol up to the normal range.

There are thousands of user feedback, and most of them are content with the product. Many are happy with how it helps control or improve their blood sugar levels, especially those with insulin resistance. Some also mentioned that taking this Berberine supplement is helping them with their weight loss goals. However, a few are not happy with the lack of effects for them.

Natural Factors WellBetX Berberine

BERBERINE CONTENT PER SERVING:

500 mg

PRICE/NUMBER OF CAPSULES:

~$35/120

DOSAGE RECOMMENDATION:

Take 1 capsule twice daily

Being in the industry since the 1950s, Natural Factors has proven to be a trusted brand and is one of the largest manufacturers of nutritional supplements in North America. Its Berberine product is extracted from barberry root. It aims to support weight management, help with insulin sensitivity, and manage blood lipid levels. Also, it may aid in blocking the digestion of carbohydrates, promoting heart health, and maintaining blood sugar levels.

Many users are pleased with this Berberine product based on over 4,000 user reviews. Many said it helped with reducing or maintaining their blood sugar levels. Additionally, some use this Berberine supplement as an alternative if they have insulin resistance. Some also mentioned taking it lowers their blood glucose levels. Although, some said they experienced some side effects such as worsening allergy and bloating.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does berberine do for the body?

According to research and clinical trials, the best Berberine supplements can damage certain types of bacteria [6], be used for diabetic treatment [7], aid in weight management [8], and reduce cholesterol [9], among many other health benefits.

What is the best form of Berberine supplements to take?

Berberine is available in capsules or powder forms. The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) encourages would-be users to speak to healthcare professionals first to guarantee their safety and how much they can consume. So, the best form to take may depend on you or your doctor. 

Can Berberine cause liver damage?

According to animal studies, liver and kidney enlargement are some of the side effects that may be experienced. [10] Although, more research needs to be conducted involving human participants.

Is Berberine as good as metformin?

Berberine and metformin share many features that could help treat type 2 diabetes. However, when it comes to managing blood sugar levels, metformin might have the upper hand as more studies need to be conducted regarding Berberine.

Bottom Line:

Because of its remarkable health benefits, the best Berberine supplements are gaining popularity among people with various medical conditions. In this article, you’ll find Berberine in different forms, such as capsules and powder. Additionally, the list contains products with different price points to cater to a wider market. So, you can choose within your budget or what type of supplement you prefer. There’s a choice for everyone in this guide!

Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional. We have assembled this article through in-depth research based on the information available at the date of publishing.  We may receive a small commission for purchases you make through our links, but this comes at NO extra cost to you. This commission allows us to continue doing what we love through Health Plugged, which is delivering evidence-based health information to our readers worldwide.

Editorial References And Fact-Checking

• Lan, J., Zhao, Y., Dong, F., Yan, Z., Zheng, W., Fan, J., & Sun, G. (2015). Meta-analysis of the effect and safety of berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia and hypertension. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 161, 69–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.09.049
• Chang, W., Chen, L., & Hatch, G. M. (2015). Berberine as a therapy for type 2 diabetes and its complications: From mechanism of action to clinical studies. Biochemistry and cell biology = Biochimie et biologie cellulaire, 93(5), 479–486. https://doi.org/10.1139/bcb-2014-0107
• Hu, Y., Ehli, E. A., Kittelsrud, J., Ronan, P. J., Munger, K., Downey, T., Bohlen, K., Callahan, L., Munson, V., Jahnke, M., Marshall, L. L., Nelson, K., Huizenga, P., Hansen, R., Soundy, T. J., & Davies, G. E. (2012, July). Lipid-lowering effect of berberine in human subjects and rats. Phytomedicine, 19(10), 861–867. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2012.05.009
• Tabeshpour, J., Imenshahidi, M., & Hosseinzadeh, H. (2017). A review of the effects of Berberis vulgaris and its major component, berberine, in metabolic syndrome. Iranian journal of basic medical sciences, 20(5), 557–568. https://doi.org/10.22038/IJBMS.2017.8682
• Peng, L., Kang, S., Yin, Z., Jia, R., Song, X., Li, L., Li, Z., Zou, Y., Liang, X., Li, L., He, C., Ye, G., Yin, L., Shi, F., Lv, C., & Jing, B. (2015). Antibacterial activity and mechanism of berberine against Streptococcus agalactiae. International journal of clinical and experimental pathology, 8(5), 5217–5223.
• Dong, H., Wang, N., Zhao, L., & Lu, F. (2012). Berberine in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systemic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2012, 591654. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/591654
• Cameron, J., Ranheim, T., Kulseth, M. A., Leren, T. P., & Berge, K. E. (2008). Berberine decreases PCSK9 expression in HepG2 cells. Atherosclerosis, 201(2), 266–273. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2008.02.004
• Singh, N., & Sharma, B. (2018, March 19). Toxicological Effects of Berberine and Sanguinarine. Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmolb.2018.00021
• Asbaghi, O., Ghanbari, N., Shekari, M., Reiner, Ž., Amirani, E., Hallajzadeh, J., Mirsafaei, L., & Asemi, Z. (2020). The effect of berberine supplementation on obesity parameters, inflammation and liver function enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinical nutrition ESPEN, 38, 43–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2020.04.010