berberine

noun

ber·​ber·​ine ˈbər-bə-ˌrēn 

: a bitter crystalline yellow alkaloid C₂₀H₁₉NO₅ obtained from the roots of various plants (such as barberry) and used in medicine especially for its antimicrobial properties

Examples of berberine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some research shows that berberine, when combined with lipid-lowering medications, may be more effective in lowering cholesterol levels than medications alone. —Erika Prouty, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2024

The use of berberine has also been linked to the purge of other microorganisms that can create buildup, including bacteria and parasites. —Michael Carroll, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024

Before taking a weight loss drug, Michaels suggests looking into supplements like berberine and yerba mate tea as alternatives. —David Oliver, USA TODAY, 2 Jan. 2024

With 15000mg of berberine per serving, BMVINVOL Berberine is one of the most potent supplements on the market. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Sep. 2023

For these reasons, Azzarro strongly recommends working with a healthcare provider to determine if berberine is the right PCOS supplement for you. —Casey Seiden, Ms, Rdn, Cdn, Health, 22 Aug. 2023

For example, berberine has many drug interactions, and some herbs may interfere with the effectiveness or negatively impact symptoms for those taking blood pressure or blood sugar medications. —Casey Seiden, Ms, Rdn, Cdn, Health, 22 Aug. 2023

The way metformin and berberine are treated makes this false dichotomy obvious. —WIRED, 31 July 2023

So what is the downside to people taking berberine? —Amy Synnott, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2023

Word History

Etymology

German Berberin, from New Latin berberis

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

berberine

noun

ber·​ber·​ine ˈbər-bə-ˌrēn 

: a bitter crystalline yellow alkaloid C₂₀H₁₉NO₅ obtained from the roots of various plants (as barberry) and used as a tonic and antiperiodic