Contents
- 7 Best Berberine Supplements
- What Are Berberine Supplements?
- How Do Berberine Supplements Work?
- How to Choose The Best Berberine Supplements?
- Potential Side Effects of Berberine Supplements
- Who Shouldn’t Take Berberine?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Berberine is a natural compound from plants like barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape, which also possesses potential health benefits. Taking berberine supplements might help in stabilizing blood sugar levels, improving cholesterol, or maintaining a healthy weight.
While berberine naturally occurs in plants, berberine formulations may provide a more concentrated and consistent dose. Research shows that berberine may optimize how your body uses insulin, which could help balance blood sugar levels.
Berberine may also reduce fat buildup in the liver and improve gut health by encouraging the growth of good bacteria, which might boost your metabolism. However, excessive or improper use of berberine may cause side effects like constipation, gas, dizziness, hypoglycemia, etc.
In this article, we discuss the merits and demerits of including berberine in your daily routine and assess the safety and quality of different berberine supplements. The article also highlights the 7 Best Berberine Supplements in 2025.
7 Best Berberine Supplements
-
Double Wood Berberine Supplement
According to the official site, Double Wood’s berberine formulations contain 500mg of berberine HCl per capsule. It provides a vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free formulation, which may align with various dietary preferences.
It may work by activating the AMPK enzyme that may influence your body’s energy use. Such activation may improve metabolism, balance blood sugar levels, and support weight loss goals.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Double Wood’s berberine formulation could support heart health. It may do so by maintaining healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels while reducing inflammation.
Double Wood’s Berberine supplement is manufactured and tested in the USA using globally sourced ingredients. The makers state that each batch is rigorously tested for microbes and heavy metals to ensure purity and safety.
With prices starting at $19.95 for a single bottle and discounts available for subscriptions, it might offer affordability. However, the results from using Double Wood’s berberine formulation might vary from person to person.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides a high-quality berberine formula with a concentration of 500mg berberine in a single capsule.
- Double Wood provides third-party test results and a certificate of analysis, ensuring its quality and potency.
- It could help boost metabolism, support heart health, and promote a healthy cholesterol profile.
- The makers of Double Wood provide a 30-day refund policy on orders.
- It might be suitable for a variety of dietary preferences, as it is free from soy, gluten, and GMOs.
Cons
- You might experience possible digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, or cramps after initially using it.
- Requires consistent dosing for effectiveness.
- The 30-day return policy may not provide enough time to assess Double Wood’s effects fully.
-
Toniiq Ultra High Purity Berberine Supplement
Toniiq Ultra High Purity berberine formulation features 500mg of berberine hydrochloride 97% extract in a single capsule, which comes in jars of 90 and 180 capsules. With a 97% purity rate, Toniiq Ultra may ensure you get a higher concentration of berberine.
As per the makers, Toniiq’s berberine is sourced from wild plants grown in the mineral-rich foothills of the Himalayas. These plants are then carefully processed using a special method that preserves their purity and potency for better effectiveness.
Toniiq’s berberine formulation could help support your weight loss goals by boosting fat burning and reducing fat accumulation in the liver. It could also help improve your body’s response to insulin, which might help suppress cravings and ensure steady energy levels.
A 2017 study revealed that 60% of berberine supplements did not meet the claimed potency, falling short of the 90-110% range. Toniiq, however, utilizes a precise extraction process to ensure their berberine products are highly purified.
Toniiq Ultra High Purity berberine is made in a state-of-the-art, GMP-certified facility in the USA, where strict safety standards are followed. To guarantee safety, Toniiq tests every batch of berberine for purity and strength throughout production.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Toniiq claims 97% purity, offering a high concentration of berberine for more effective potential health benefits
- Sourced from wild plants in the mineral-rich Himalayas, ensuring nutrient-rich berberine from resilient plants
- May help support fat-burning, reduce triglycerides, and boost energy levels
- Made in a GMP-certified facility in the USA, meeting strict quality control standards for consistency and safety
- Independent third-party testing may verify the purity and effectiveness of each batch
Cons
- You may experience diarrhea, stomach pain, or cramps, especially if you’re new to berberine or have a sensitive stomach
- Results might take time to become noticeable, and consistent use may be required
- The safety and effectiveness of long-term use of berberine require further studies and research
-
Puritan’s Pride Berberine Supplement
Each jar of Puritan’s Pride Berberine comprises 500mg of berberine HCI, derived from potent plants like Goldenseal and Barberry. It claims to support heart health by promoting healthy circulation and maintaining normal cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Puritan’s Pride Berberine may help keep your blood sugar levels within a normal range. It might also complement a weight loss program, as it may support metabolic health by boosting fat metabolism and promoting energy balance.
According to the official site, you may purchase one Puritan’s Pride Berberine jar and get 2 free for $29.99. Buying 2 Puritan’s Pride Berberine jars may provide you with 4 free jars for a price of $59.98. You may save an extra 5% on orders by subscribing to Puritan’s Pride.
The makers state that Puritan’s Pride Berberine is free from common allergens like milk, lactose, soy, wheat, fish, artificial flavors or additives, and yeast. Such composition could make Puritan’s Pride Berberine potentially safe if you’ve specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
However, people below 18 years of age, pregnant/nursing women, and those with specific health concerns should refrain from using Puritan’s Pride Berberine unless advised by a doctor.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Puritan’s Pride Berberine claims to support heart health by promoting healthy circulation and heart function.
- It may help complement a weight loss program by supporting metabolism and fat-burning.
- Provides 500mg of premium berberine in a single capsule.
- Produced in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified facilities, ensuring high safety and quality standards.
- Offers cost-effective deals like “buy one, get two free” or “buy two, get four free.”
Cons
- Puritan’s Pride might be comparatively more expensive than similar berberine formulations on the market.
- Personal effects could vary.
-
PureBulk Berberine HCl powder
PureBulk’s berberine HCI powder is sourced from the Phellodendron amurense bark, providing 441mg of berberine HCI in a single serving (500mg). It comes in package sizes ranging from 25g to a full 1kg.
The makers state that PureBulk ensures a pure and clean formulation, as it provides potent berberine without any added fillers. Such composition could make PureBulk’s berberine powder beneficial in supporting blood sugar balance, healthy cholesterol levels, and metabolism.
A standout feature of PureBulk’s berberine HCI powder is the ability to customize your dosage. While the recommended daily intake is 500mg, you have the freedom to adjust your dose according to your specific needs.
You may purchase a single bag (25g) of PureBulk’s berberine HCI powder for $10.95. The pricing may go up as you increase the serving size. You might also save an extra 10% on orders by subscribing to PureBulk.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- PureBulk’s berberine powder provides 441mg of berberine in a single serving (500mg).
- It claims to contain no additives, ensuring you receive pure berberine without unnecessary fillers.
- Each batch of PureBulk undergoes independent third-party testing to ensure potency and safety.
- PureBulk’s berberine powder is available in multiple sizes and forms, such as packs of 25g, 50g, 100g, 250g, 500g, and 1kg.
Cons
- Berberine may cause gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, especially at higher doses.
- The number of servings per size isn’t clearly indicated on the label, making it inconvenient to determine the correct dosage.
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
-
Renue By Science LIPO Berberine
Renue By Science LIPO berberine claims to support your metabolism, promote heart health and help stabilize your blood sugar levels. Each bottle comprises 90 capsules, with each capsule offering 250mg of berberine.
Your body does not easily absorb regular berberine, so only about 1% gets into your system. However, a 2017 animal study revealed that liposomal berberine is absorbed and utilized 16 times more efficiently. The system may release the berberine slowly, which could make it last longer.
Renue By Science uses sunflower lecithin to form a protective layer around the formula, which might help your body absorb berberine more easily. Its berberine formula is said to be non-GMO, vegan-friendly, and free from artificial preservatives and flavors. It is also rigorously tested in high-quality labs to ensure it fulfills strict standards for purity, potency, and safety.
According to the official site, you may purchase a single bottle of Renue By Science LIPO berberine for $49.95. Subscribing to Renue By Science may help save you an extra 5% on orders.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- The liposomal delivery system may enhance absorption, allowing your body to use berberine more effectively.
- Regular use of Renue By Science LIPO berberine may help provide benefits like better blood sugar control and reduced cholesterol.
- The makers state that Renue By Science LIPO berberine is made in cGMP- and ISO-certified facilities, ensuring strict safety and quality standards.
- LIPO berberine is free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors, providing a cleaner and more natural experience.
- Renue By Science berberine undergoes multiple third-party testing, and certificates of analysis are available on the brand’s website, ensuring quality and reliability.
Cons
- LIPO Berberine may be more expensive than other Berberine options, potentially making it less budget-friendly.
- You may experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or bloating.
- LIPO Berberine might be comparatively more expensive than other Berberine options.
-
Oregon’s Wild Harvest Oregon Grape Berberine Supplement
Oregon’s Wild Harvest uses Oregon grape root, a natural and rich source of berberine. Each serving provides 1,140mg of organic Oregon grape root, offering a simple and clean formula without unnecessary additives.
To reach one full serving, you’ll need to take three capsules daily, which gives you 30 servings per bottle. However, the exact amount of berberine in each serving isn’t listed. It means that it’s hard to know exactly how much berberine you’re consuming, which might be a drawback.
Oregon’s Wild Harvest Oregon Grape capsules are gluten-free and dairy-free. They don’t contain wheat, peanuts, soy, corn, or other common allergens. Such composition may be particularly suitable if you have common food sensitivities or allergies.
An independent lab, SGS, has certified Oregon’s Wild Harvest products as non-GMO. The certification may give you confidence that it is made without genetically modified ingredients, making it a potentially safe berberine formulation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Oregon grape root has antioxidants that may lower oxidative stress, contributing to long-term health.
- It’s free from common allergens like wheat, peanuts, soy, and corn, making it potentially safe for those with food sensitivities or allergies.
- Berberine in Oregon grape root may help support healthy blood sugar levels and cardiovascular health.
- Oregon’s Wild Harvest products undergo in-house testing for purity and potency, which may indicate a clean and effective formulation.
- Due to its USDA-certified organic profile, Oregon’s Wild Harvest products may be free from harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.
Cons
- You might experience digestive concerns like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, especially when starting at higher doses.
- The long-term safety of berberine supplements requires more research and studies.
- To reach the recommended dose, you need to take multiple capsules (up to three daily), which might be inconvenient.
-
NatureBell Dihydroberberine Supplement
According to the official site, NatureBell’s dihydroberberine provides 120 capsules in a bottle, offering 60 servings per bottle. Each serving provides 400mg of berberine HCl from Berberis Aristata root and 100mg of dihydroberberine (DHB) as GlucoVantage.
GlucoVantage is a special variant of berberine, which claims that your body may absorb it five times more easily than regular berberine. This means you might get stronger benefits, and the effects last twice as long, providing you with longer-lasting support.
You may purchase a single bottle of NatureBell’s dihydroberberine for $34.95. It also claims to be free from common allergens like gluten, wheat, tree nuts, eggs, soy, dairy, fish, and peanuts.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- NatureBell uses GlucoVantage, which claims to be 5X more effective at being absorbed by the body than regular berberine.
- It undergoes rigorous third-party testing, which may ensure that you receive a berberine formulation that’s safe and free from harmful contaminants.
- NatureBell’s dihydroberberine may help keep blood sugar levels within a normal range over time.
- Does not contain gluten, wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, fish, or tree nuts.
- NatureBell products are made without genetically modified organisms for a cleaner, more natural option.
Cons
- It may provide a lower berberine dose than other berberine formulations on the market.
- You might experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
- Benefits may take time to show, requiring consistent, long-term use for noticeable effects.
What Are Berberine Supplements?
Berberine supplements are made from a natural compound found in plants like barberry, goldenseal, and the amur cork tree. They come in capsules or tablets, but you may also find them in powder or liquid form.
The major ingredient in these formulations is berberine hydrochloride, the active compound responsible for the health benefits. Berberine may help stabilize blood sugar levels, which could help minimize cravings and sudden energy crashes.
Berberine may support heart health by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and triglycerides. It also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that might help protect your cells from inflammation and free radical damage.
However, you might experience stomach issues like diarrhea, bloating, or constipation, especially when first taking berberine formulations. They may also negatively interact with medications, particularly those used to control blood sugar levels.
Some products combine berberine with other ingredients, such as curcumin or milk thistle, to enhance its effectiveness. If you’re new to berberine, it’s a good idea to begin with a lower dose to observe how your body responds before increasing it.
How Do Berberine Supplements Work?
When you take berberine, it may activate an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often called the “metabolic master switch.” The enzyme is responsible for influencing energy production, fat breakdown, and blood sugar levels.
Activation of AMPK may increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin, potentially helping your bodily cells to absorb glucose. Berberine could also help reduce the amount of glucose your liver produces, further supporting healthy blood sugar levels.
Berberine also has the ability to fight harmful bacteria and may help keep your gut healthy. Some studies suggest that berberine might help with concerns like small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Research also highlights that berberine could help lower body fat percentage and support overall weight loss. However, these effects were observed when berberine supplementation was paired with a nutritious diet and consistent exercise.
How to Choose The Best Berberine Supplements?
-
Cost
When choosing berberine formulations, you should think about the cost for each dose. For example, Toniiq Ultra High Purity berberine offers a 500mg concentration of berberine but comes at a price of $23.58.
On the other hand, PureBulk Berberine HCl powder is usually cheaper, especially if you don’t mind measuring out the doses. It comes as bulk powder, which often makes it cheaper per serving, but you’ll have to do more work to prepare it.
You should also look out for Bundle and package deals offered by different Berberine brands. For instance, Puritan’s Pride offers buy-one-get-two-free deals, which may provide added cost savings as you purchase in bulk.
-
Convenience
Most berberine formulations come in various forms, like capsules, powders, or liquids, allowing you to choose what works best for you. Capsules might provide a convenient option, as they’re easy to swallow and portable.
However, if you prefer flexibility, you may go for PureBulk’s berberine HCI powder. You may easily mix the powdered forms into smoothies or shakes, which might provide a customizable approach to consuming berberine.
You should also consider whether the berberine formulation requires multiple daily doses or just one. A single-dose berberine formula could be more convenient if you have a busy schedule, while others that require multiple doses might be more inconvenient.
-
Safety
Choose a berberine product from a trusted brand that follows good manufacturing practices (GMP) and offers transparency regarding the dosing of its ingredients.
You may look for brands like Double Wood Berberine, which may provide easy access to third-party testing results. The testing status could help ensure the berberine formulation you’re choosing meets potency standards and contains what it claims on the label.
When it comes to purity, Toniiq Ultra High Purity Berberine might be a suitable choice. Due to its 97% berberine concentration, it might be more effective at lower doses, thereby reducing the potential for side effects like stomach upset.
Berberine might interact with medications or conditions, so it’s essential to check whether the berberine formulation is safe for your health circumstances. Some berberine products might include harmful ingredients or fillers, which could affect safety and tolerability.
-
Effectiveness
A vital factor when evaluating the efficacy of berberine formulations is dosage. Studies indicate that taking berberine between 500mg and 1,500mg daily might provide the desired benefits. It might minimize side effects like nausea and diarrhea, which may occur with higher doses.
When choosing a berberine product, look for one that allows you to adjust the dosage if needed easily. For example, Double Wood’s 500mg capsules could let you modify your intake if you experience any stomach discomfort.
You might want to explore berberine formulations that include other ingredients, such as turmeric and black pepper extract. These ingredients might help improve the absorption and effectiveness of the berberine formulation.
Checking user reviews might help you gauge the effectiveness of berberine products. Look for patterns in feedback, such as how quickly users noticed results or if they experienced side effects. Pay attention to reviews from verified buyers and those that mention similar health goals to yours.
Potential Side Effects of Berberine Supplements
-
Low Blood Sugar
Berberine has a natural ability to lower blood sugar levels, especially when taken with blood sugar medications. However, if you’re not careful, it may cause your blood sugar to drop too much, leading to symptoms like dizziness, shakiness, or confusion.
If you’re taking berberine alongside other blood sugar-lowering medications, you should observe your blood sugar levels regularly. If you experience any signs of hypoglycemia, it’s vital to consult with a doctor to adjust your dosage or medication plan.
-
Digestive Issues
When taking berberine formulations, you might experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. It may occur because berberine could strongly impact the gut microbiome, which might alter digestion patterns. You might notice these symptoms, especially when you first start taking berberine products or if the dosage is too high. To minimize these digestive side effects, you could try starting with a smaller dose and gradually increasing it as your body gets used to berberine.
-
Fatigue
Berberine may cause fatigue in some cases, particularly when starting its use. Fatigue may occur because berberine might influence your energy metabolism, potentially leading to feelings of tiredness or weakness.
If your body takes time to adjust to berberine, you might experience low energy levels, especially if you’re taking a high dose. If you find yourself feeling unusually tired while on berberine, it could help to reduce the dosage or take it at a different time of day.
-
Increased Risk of Bleeding
Berberine might have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects, which could increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken alongside blood-thinning medications like warfarin. It might contribute to bruising, nosebleeds, or other signs of excessive bleeding.
It’s essential to be cautious if you’re using berberine while on anticoagulant therapy or if you have a bleeding disorder.
Who Shouldn’t Take Berberine?
Berberine may not suit everyone, especially if you are taking specific medications. For example, taking berberine with medicines that lower blood sugar (like insulin or metformin) may cause your blood sugar to drop too low.
It might also interfere with the effectiveness of medications for blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood thinning. To stay safe, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting berberine if you are on any prescription medications.
Breastfeeding and pregnant women should avoid berberine because it may pose risks to the baby. Research has found that berberine might cross the placenta during pregnancy or pass into breast milk while nursing. It’s best to stay cautious and avoid using berberine during these times.
Anyone below 18 years of age should refrain from using berberine, as it may pose health risks and concerning side effects. People with liver or kidney issues should be cautious because berberine is metabolized by the liver and excreted through the kidneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Dietary Changes Should Accompany Berberine Supplementation?
When taking berberine, consider adopting a nutritious diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and healthy fats. Reducing sugar and processed foods might also help enhance berberine’s effects on blood sugar and overall health. - Can Berberine Supplements Interact With Other Medications?
Berberine formulations may interact with some medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar and liver enzymes. You should consult a doctor before starting berberine to ensure safe and effective use alongside your medications. - Are There Specific Berberine Supplements for Vegetarians or Vegans?
Many brands offer berberine products suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Look for plant-based capsules or powders that specifically state they’re vegan-friendly, ensuring you get the benefits without compromising your dietary preferences. - Can Berberine Help With Weight Loss?
Berberine may support weight loss by boosting metabolism and reducing fat accumulation. Its anti-inflammatory properties could support overall health, but you should pair it with a balanced diet and regular exercise for optimal results.
Conclusion
Berberine supplements could help maintain steady energy levels, support weight loss goals, and stabilize blood sugar levels. However, you should consider factors like dosage, safety, berberine concentration, and third-party testing status before selecting a berberine formulation.
You should also watch out for excessive or improper use of berberine, as it may trigger potential side effects like a drop in blood sugar levels, constipation, bloating, headache, and nausea. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver or kidney issues, you should avoid taking berberine supplements.
- The information in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice.
- It is not recommended to disregard/delay seeking professional medical advice or treatment because of what you read or accessed through this guide.
- The results may vary from individual to individual.
- Consult your doctor for any underlying medical conditions or if you are on any prescribed medicines before using any product.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
Leave a Reply