31 Science-Backed Berberine Benefits (#20 Important For PCOS)
Contents:
What is Berberine How Does Berberine Work The 31 Comprehensive Science-Backed Berberine Benefits- Berberine Helps Reduce Leaky Gut
- Berberine Can Improve Your Memory
- Berberine Promotes Healthy Weight Loss
- Berberine Lowers Inflammation in the Body
- Berberine Is a Natural Anti-Depressant
- Berberine Fights Diabetes
- Berberine Helps with Diabetic Nephropathy
- Berberine Might Help Reduce Cancer Risks
- Berberine Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
- Berberine Improves Your Cholesterol Levels
- Berberine Protects Your Liver
- Berberine Fights Arthritis
- Berberine Helps with Colitis and IBD
- Berberine Boosts Your Energy Levels
- Berberine has Anti-Bacterial Properties
- Berberine Is an Anti-Parasitic
- Berberine Has Anti-Viral Properties
- Berberine Helps with Menopause
- Berberine Protects You Against Heavy Metals
- Berberine Helps with PCOS
- Berberine May Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
- Berberine Can Heal Canker Sores
- Berberine Can Treat SIBO
- Berberine Boosts Your Lung Health
- Berberine Helps with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
- Berberine Promotes Skin Health
- Berberine Promotes Eye Health
- Berberine Can Treat Burns
- Berberine Helps Reduce Anxiety
- Berberine Has Pain-Relieving Properties
- Berberine Improves Nail and Hair Health
What is Berberine?
Historically, Chinese herbalists have used Berberine for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments and health issues. Berberine is a quaternary ammonium salt, or a bio-active substance, that is found in plants. Such plants include Oregon grape goldthread and goldenseal just to name a few. Today, modern scientists have run dozens and dozens of tests on Berberine to confirm its various medical benefits. The findings are exciting, and we now know that Berberine is an effective supplement to help alleviate the symptoms of different health problems.How Does Berberine Work?
Once you consume Berberine, your body absorbs it, and it travels through the bloodstream to the body's cells. When it gets inside your cells, it goes to work binding several different molecular targets together and reorganising their functions. This mimics what pharmaceutical drugs do in the body. Additionally, Berberine works to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) inside your body's cells. This enzyme is also called the "metabolic master switch." It plays a huge role in regulating your metabolism, and it also performs important functions in your heart, liver, kidney, and muscles. We'll outline the other 31 comprehensive science-backed Berberine benefits so you can see just how powerful this natural supplement is.The 31 Comprehensive Science-Backed Berberine Benefits
1. Berberine Helps Reduce Leaky Gut
Berberine is a natural anti-diarrhoeal, and it can slow your intestine's absorbency rate. In turn, it can help with "leaky gut" or intestinal epithelial tight junction damage. It also forms a natural barrier between your intestines and any inflammatory agents. Finally, Berberine also has a positive effect on the bacteria levels in your digestive tract. One study used five different groups of mice to test Berberine's effectiveness at treating the symptoms of "leaky gut." Of the five control groups of mice, the scientists injected one group with a Berberine infusion. These mice showed significant improvement over the other groups.2. Berberine Can Improve Your Memory
Berberine has several useful functions when it comes to your memory as well. Do you routinely have trouble remembering small things or how to do tasks? Perhaps you have a family history of stroke or cardiovascular events. Either way, Berberine can help. Scientists took diabetic mice and set up a controlled, randomised trial to test Berberine's effectiveness on their memory. The control group didn't get any Berberine, and the other group got chronic treatments of this supplement. The group that got the Berberine treatment scored much higher than the control group for memory tests.3. Berberine Promotes Healthy Weight Loss
Obesity continues to be on the rise. For example, almost one in four children now identify as obese or overweight. Three- and five-month tests took groups of obese individuals and gave them 500mg of Berberine three times each day for 12 weeks. The average weight loss that the individuals in the group experienced was five pounds. They also showed cholesterol level improvement.4. Berberine Lowers Inflammation in the Body
Inflammation can be a painful symptom with many different medical conditions and issues. You can have inflammation both internally and externally, and it's usually a good indicator of a more serious underlying health issue like arthritis, high blood pressure, or dermatitis. The good news for people with chronic inflammation is that Berberine has proven to be a powerful anti-inflammatory in both living and lab organisms. It works at a cellular level to reduce any internal inflammation. This includes inflammation due to chronic conditions or environmental factors like cigarette smoke.5. Berberine Is a Natural Anti-Depressant
Almost half over every population around the world suffers from some kind of mental illness. This statistic continues to grow. Depression medications can have various side effects, and Berberine is a natural supplement that can help. When you take Berberine, it goes to work altering your brain chemistry. Studies show that Berberine increases key levels of neurotransmitters in your brain that can reduce the common symptoms of depression. It also stops a natural enzyme in your brain from breaking down the serotonin or "feel good" chemicals.6. Berberine Fights Diabetes
One popular treatment for diabetes that can help to control your blood sugar levels is Metformin. However, Berberine may be a more effective choice because it works in more areas of the body. Curcumin and Piperine when added together have also shown to be more effective than this diabetic drug. Scientists conducted trials on Berberine's effectiveness at controlling diabetes and compared it to Metformin. They found that Berberine naturally increases the insulin in your system, decreases cell damage and promotes antioxidant enzyme activity. It also improves glucose tolerance and repairs cell damage.7. Berberine Helps with Diabetic Nephropathy
Also called Diabetic Kidney Disease, this chronic condition relates directly to having Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. This condition can quickly evolve into kidney failure or end-stage kidney disease if you don't treat it. Around 40% of people with Diabetes eventually develop this condition. Taking Berberine regularly can help to reduce your chances of developing Diabetic Nephropathy. It balances the levels of AMPK in your system, and this is a key player in controlling your blood sugar levels. It also stimulates healthy organ growth and maintenance. Studies showed that Berberine promotes healthy kidneys, muscles, and organs in Diabetic patients.8. Berberine Might Help Reduce Cancer Risks
Alongside transitional cancer treatments like chemotherapy, Berberine is a promising agent to help reduce the risk of and combat different types of cancer. Research and studies show that Berberine is a promising cancer treatment option with several anti-cancer properties. Berberine goes straight to the cell level and kills the cancer cells at the source while leaving healthy cells alone. It can also prevent the rapid spreading process of cancer cells.9. Berberine Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death for around the world. Poor diet, obesity, and genetics all contribute to your chances of developing heart disease. Medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk, as can Berberine. One study took 156 patients with heart disease risk factors or diagnosed heart disease and split them in two groups. Both groups got traditional medications, but one group also got 1.2 to 2mg of Berberine per day. The group with Berberine showed reduced risks at the end of the trial, as well as damage repair to previously injured muscles.10. Berberine Improves Your Cholesterol Levels
Having high cholesterol levels can quickly lead to more serious health problems because it promotes plaque build-up in your arteries. Berberine can help to promote safe cholesterol levels and a healthy balance between good and bad cholesterol. Scientists tested two parallel groups of 20 participants with high cholesterol. One group got Berberine, and the control group didn't get it. At the end of the test, the group using Berberine showed significant improvement in their cholesterol levels.11. Berberine Protects Your Liver
Liver disease can lead to several other health complications and conditions. Liver disease can lead to a reduced quality of life and a shorter lifespan overall for affected people. One study showed that Berberine could protect rat livers from damage due to poisoning or coming into contact with toxic agents. Another study showed that it could protect the liver from damage due to infections. It also showed that Berberine could decrease the chances of developing liver disease in humans.12. Berberine Fights Arthritis
Arthritis is a common inflammatory disease where the immune system attacks your joints. As a response, inflammation occurs as the joints try to protect themselves. Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are the two most common forms of this disease that affect millions of people around the world. The good news is that Berberine is a natural anti-inflammatory. Scientists divided rats into two groups and gave one group Berberine. The group that got Berberine showed significant improvement in their inflammation levels. It suppressed the immune system's response, and they noted decreased inflammation in and around the joints.13. Berberine Helps with Colitis and IBD
Colitis and IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) are responsible for inflammation and scarring in your digestive tract. These painful conditions can lead to debilitating health problems that get worse as these disease progresses over time. Medications with anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce your symptoms. For thousands of years, Chinese herbalists have incorporated Berberine into their treatment regimes. They combat the inflammation that comes with these conditions. Tests show that Berberine stops lipid peroxidation, NF-kB inflammation, and intestinal bacterial growth. This helps to regulate your digestive system and reduce the symptoms of colitis and IBD.14. Berberine Boosts Your Energy Levels
Do you feel tired, fatigued, or worn out? Perhaps your energy levels crash in the early afternoon. Either way, flagging energy levels can be a frustrating problem that can negatively impact your work and social life. If you experience this, you're not alone, and there is a natural way to boost your energy levels. One recent study showed that consuming Berberine can help your body create new mitochondria in the cells. This helps your body create more natural energy, and it can help to reduce that afternoon energy crash. Berberine also helps to balance the ratio of NAD+/NADH in your body.15. Berberine has Anti-Bacterial Properties
Bacterial infections can cause a variety of health conditions, and these conditions have the potential to wreak a lot of havoc in your body the longer they go without treatment. Taking a natural supplement with anti-bacterial properties can help. Researchers performed various studies on the anti-bacterial properties of Berberine. They found that it is an effective treatment against several different types of bacteria. These bacteria include E. coli, Candida a., S. aureus, T. viride, P. aeruginosa and many more. It boosts your immune system and works from the inside out.16. Berberine Is an Anti-Parasitic
Parasitic infections are a problem for both people and animals alike. Things like ringworm, roundworm, lice, and skin mites are common. They burrow into your skin and get into your body. Once they get in, they can cause a lot of issues. Several different lab experiments found that Berberine is effective against several different parasites and that it works on both humans and animals. One study showed that it was effective against ringworm in dogs, and another study showed that is was effective against Malaria in human participants.17. Berberine Has Anti-Viral Properties
Viruses are a year-round problem all over the world, and they can be worse for people with weak or compromised immune systems. They can attack various areas of your body, including your respiratory tract, digestive tract, organs, and more. People with compromised immune systems may not be able to take pharmaceuticals to fight the virus, so natural anti-viral supplements can help. Berberine has several anti-viral properties that help to combat viral infections, and this includes STD viruses. Scientists studied these anti-viral properties and found that it combats the Influenza A virus and the virus that causes HIV.18. Berberine Helps with Menopause
Menopause is a natural occurrence in a woman's life that signals the end of your menstrual cycle. It typically starts in the early 40s and continues for several years. The average age for the onset of menopause is 51, but this can fluctuate from person to person. Menopause can bring on different issues, including cardiovascular problems, in otherwise healthy women. Taking Berberine can help to balance your lipid panels and lower your cholesterol levels. It can also help at a hormonal level to help reduce hot flashes and mood swings that are common with menopause.19. Berberine Protects You Against Heavy Metals
Heavy metal poisoning can occur anywhere in the world. Exposure to heavy metals can lead to many health complications for young and old Australians alike. What's worse, exposure to heavy metals can happen on land or in the water. Two groups of rats had exposure to heavy metals, and the researchers noted that cognitive and memory issues were common. One group got daily doses of Berberine, and the other group didn't get it. The studies showed that Berberine can protect your cells from heavy metal toxicity, and it can help to repair cell damage.20. Berberine Helps with PCOS
PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that affects women who have infrequent menstrual cycles or higher levels of testosterone in their system. It affects 1 in 10 women who are of childbearing age. It can cause physical problems like excessive hair growth, metabolism problems, infertility, and, of course, ovarian cysts. Berberine can help to regulate your body's hormone levels and reduce the severity of your PCOS. A double-blind trial with 120 participants gave one group nothing and one group a dose of Berberine each day for 12 weeks. At the end of the trial, the group who got the Berberine showed improved insulin-resistance and a better hormonal balance.21. Berberine May Prevent Alzheimer's Disease
In most western countries, more than 3 in 10 people have Dementia. Of these people, over 70% have Alzheimer's Disease. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's Disease. It can progress at different paces for different people, and it is a terminal diagnosis. Berberine can help to fight the development and slow the progression of Alzheimer's Disease. Research shows that Berberine stops the accumulation of beta-amyloid and amyloid plaque in your brain. These two things are common characteristics of Alzheimer's Disease.22. Berberine Can Heal Canker Sores
Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, can appear in and around your mouth in the soft tissue. These painful lesions can make it difficult to eat or drink in more severe cases, and they can last for weeks at a time. The exact cause of canker sores isn't known, but it's thought to be a combination of several factors. A Chinese double-blind trial took 84 subjects with a canker sore outbreak and treated one group with a topical application of Berberine. They applied it four times a day for five consecutive days. The participants reported a decrease in the size and pain level of their canker sores.23. Berberine Can Treat SIBO
SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterised by an overgrowth of bad bacteria in your intestines. It can cause a variety of problems that mimic IBS symptoms, like bloating, irritation, inflammation, belching, and upset stomach. The most common treatment for SIBO may be antibiotics, but researchers show that Berberine can be just as effective in treating it. This is due to Berberine's anti-bacterial properties. It works to balance the bacteria in your intestines. It also stops colonisation of the bad bacteria.24. Berberine Boosts Your Lung Health
When you smoke, the smoke from the cigarettes can cause irritation and inflammation in your respiratory tract and all of the way into your lungs. This inflammation can make it difficult to breathe, and it can also cause respiratory problems like asthma or COPD to flare up. Scientists exposed mice to lung-damaging cigarette smoke to test Berberine's effectiveness at healing the damage and treating the inflammation. They found that the mice who got the 50mg of Berberine showed less damage and inflammation in their lung tissue. This is a promising find for chronic smokers and people with respiratory tract issues.25. Berberine Helps with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a broad term that physicians use to cover a wide range of liver problems that are related to heavy drinking. Excessive drinking causes your liver to store too much fat, and it affects around one-third of the adult Australian population. Controlled trials set out to test Berberine's effectiveness against this disease. Participants split into groups, and one group got a dose of Berberine once a day. At the end of the trial, they compared the fat build up count and found that the group that got the Berberine had less than the control group.26. Berberine Promotes Skin Health
As you age, you may notice that your skin starts to look worn out or that you have more wrinkles and sunspots present. This is from your skin losing its elasticity and having constant exposure to environmental factors and conditions. You can combat these skin issues by taking Berberine supplements. Berberine has high levels of antioxidants, and these antioxidants can help to restore your skin's elasticity. You should notice healthy and glowing skin with a reduction of wrinkles as the group did in a controlled study.27. Berberine Promotes Eye Health
Eye disease like Glaucoma or problems with bacterial infections are common in people over the age of 55. These diseases and infections can progress rapidly, and surgery is one of the most common treatment options. However, Berberine shows promise as well. Educational research showed that Berberine can effectively fight against a common bacterial infection in the eye that can cause long-lasting problems. It goes to the source of the infection and starts to stop the progression of the disease or infection and coats the eye to protect it.28. Berberine Can Treat Burns
Topical ointments mixed with antibiotics can work in tandem to soothe the burned area and stop any possible infection from taking hold and spreading. However, there may be a better option. Since Berberine has strong anti-bacterial properties without side effects, it can be a powerful burn treatment. A Chinese study randomly selected 115 burn patients and tested how effective Berberine was at speeding up the healing time. They found that patients who got topical Berberine ointment had faster healing time than patients who didn't get the topical application.29. Berberine Helps Reduce Anxiety
Anxiety can come on seemingly out of nowhere, and the effects can be debilitating and interfere with everyday activities. Not enough research is being done in this area but berberine is showing some positive outcomes. A study measured Berberine's effectiveness when it came to anxiety disorders. They induced anxiety in two groups of mice and gave one group 10mg of Berberine to combat the anxious behaviours. They found that the group that they gave the Berberine too had a marked decrease in their anxious behaviour over the control group.30. Berberine Has Pain-Relieving Properties
For people with nerve pain in varying degrees, you know how severe it can it. Nerve pain can feel like a shooting or tingling pain that lasts for minutes or hours at a time. Nerve damage or disease is a common cause for this pain because it disrupts the natural flow of information from the nerves to your brain. Fortunately for people with chronic nerve pain, Berberine studies show promising results for alleviating nerve pain in rats, especially nerve pain linked to diabetes. They saw significant improvement in the rat's responses and in their ability to move after they received doses of Berberine.31. Berberine Improves Nail and Hair Health
Weak, cracked, or brittle nails are common indicators that your body lacks vitamins and minerals, especially iron. Additionally, hair that is dry, damaged, brittle, or oily can indicate problems. Taking vitamin supplements can help with these issues, and Berberine can prove effective as well. Berberine has a high level of antioxidants and anti-fungal properties, and studies prove that it can help to improve your nail and hair health. It adds antioxidants back to your body and works to treat any fungal or bacterial infections that may cause the hair and nail issues.Berberine Side Effects
Berberine is generally a safe supplement with very few side effects. It's very common to take 500mg of Berberine three times per day without experiencing any side effects. However, individuals who take blood pressure-reducing medications or medications to help them control other health problems may be more prone to developing the side effects. You do want to talk to your doctor before you start taking it. They'll be able to give you their opinion on it as well as advise you of any side effects. A few of the common side effects include cramping, constipation, stomach pain, and diarrhoea.Final Thoughts on Berberine
These 31 comprehensive science-backed benefits of Berberine prove that this powerful and natural supplement is here to stay. More people are starting to learn about this supplement and incorporating it into their daily diets so they can experience the benefits first-hand. If you haven't started taking Berberine, perhaps it's time you considered testing it and seeing if you experience any positive outcomes. Always talk to your physician before you start a new supplement, and enjoy feeling better.
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