Berberines are a particular type of constituent found in a number of different plants that gives them a yellow colour. The most well known of which are: Barberry (Berberine vulgaris), Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium), and Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). These herbs have been used for over 2,500 years around the world to treat a variety of different health concerns. Traditionally, berberine was used as an antibiotic to treat bacterial, viral, parasite and Candida (yeast) infections. Current research has noted a number of benefits of berberines in the treatment of: diabetes, Alzheimer's, depression, and cardiovascular disease.

Antioxidant
Berberines are extremely strong antioxidants that can inhibit the generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS). Because of their extremely strong antioxidant abilities, they can help to protect cells against the damage that can cause cell growths, and protect the blood vessels against cardiovascular disease. It is also this effect that helps berberines to combat Alzheimer's disease.

Cardiovascular Health
Berberine's strong antioxidant ability helps it to protect LDL ("bad") cholesterol from being oxidized, which is one of the strongest contributing factors to the formation of atherosclerosis. Recent evidence suggests that berberine has beneficial effects on dyslipidemia (imbalanced blood fats and cholesterol) as well. By promoting a healthier cholesterol and blood fat profile, berberines can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Diabetic
The anti-diabetic affect of berberines has been well established by research. Some interesting new research (2011) has found that this benefit may be due to the berberines helping to regulate the gut microbes and prevent inflammation. Interestingly, this implies that diabetes may be partially caused by an inflammatory state in the body. This is a relatively new way of viewing the origin of type II diabetes and has triggered a new direction for research.

Leaky Gut
Much of the earliest research on berberines surrounded their use for the treatment of diarrhea. This was also one of the original traditional folk uses in history. These compounds have been shown to help reduce immune-mediated damage of the endothelial tight junctions in the gut. This helps to restore the gut barrier function and reduce the symptoms of leaky gut.

Suggested Use

Adults: Take 1 capsule 2 times per day with a meal.

Warning

Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are taking other medications or natural health products, have diabetes, hypoglycemia or hypotension, liver disease or cardiovascular disease. If you experience sweating, paleness, chills, headache and/or confusion, discontinue use and consult a health care practitioner. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. May cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as constipation, vomiting, abdominal pain or diarrhea, in which case discontinue use and consult a health care practitioner.

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