Background
Berberine is an alkaloid compound present in the roots, stems, rhizomes, and bark of a variety of plants, including Californian poppy, goldenseal, cork tree, Chinese goldthread, Oregon grape, and several plants in the Berberis genus. It is also widely available as a dietary supplement. Berberine has a long history of use in the ancient and traditional medicine systems of India, China, and Persia. Research demonstrates that berberine may exert pharmacological effects against certain chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, neurodegenerative disease, depression, and metabolic dysfunction. Some of berberine's effects mirror those associated with metformin, an antihyperglycemic agent commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. Preliminary research in animals also suggests that berberine may exert anti-aging...
