Berberis Aristata Extract Paste
Also known as: Indian Barberry, Tree Turmeric, Berberis aristata DC., Berberis aristata
Overview
Berberis aristata extract is derived from the bark of the plant and is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is primarily known for its berberine content, an isoquinoline alkaloid, which exhibits multiple pharmacological activities. The extract is commonly used to support metabolic health, particularly lipid and glucose metabolism, and cardiovascular function. Research on B. aristata extract is moderately mature, with multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses focusing on its effects on metabolic syndrome components and liver enzymes. The quality of evidence is generally good, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses published recently. It is categorized as a botanical extract and herbal supplement.
Benefits
Berberis aristata extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its berberine content. A 2023 meta-analysis demonstrated significant improvements in metabolic syndrome parameters, including reductions in LDL cholesterol (approx. 2.92 mg/dL), total cholesterol (2.25 mg/dL), triglycerides (1.16 mg/dL), and fasting glucose (0.54 mg/dL). It also showed an increase in HDL cholesterol (0.71-fold), indicating a positive impact on lipid profiles in metabolic syndrome patients. The strength of this evidence is high, derived from a meta-analysis of RCTs. Furthermore, a systematic review and meta-analysis combining B. aristata with silymarin found beneficial effects on liver enzymes like alanine aminotransferase (ALT), suggesting hepatoprotective potential. Preclinical in vitro studies also indicate that B. aristata extracts can inhibit cancer cell migration without pro-tumoral effects on normal cells, though this benefit requires further clinical validation. The extract generally shows limited cytotoxicity in human cell lines and minimal interaction with cytochrome P450 enzymes, suggesting a favorable safety profile at typical doses.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Berberis aristata extract is attributed to berberine, its main active compound. Berberine activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a crucial enzyme that regulates lipid and glucose metabolism. This activation leads to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced cholesterol synthesis. Berberine also modulates hepatic gluconeogenesis and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects. While berberine and related alkaloids have good bioaccessibility, they are substrates for P-glycoprotein (P-gp), which can limit their absorption and overall bioavailability. The extract shows minimal interaction with cytochrome P450 enzymes, reducing the risk of drug interactions.
Side effects
Berberis aristata extract is generally considered safe, with in vitro studies showing limited cytotoxicity and no significant pro-tumoral effects on normal cells. The most commonly reported side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, though specific details on frequency and severity are not extensively detailed in meta-analyses. Regarding drug interactions, the potential for CYP450-mediated interactions is low. However, its interaction with P-glycoprotein (P-gp) may affect the absorption of co-administered drugs, potentially altering their efficacy or increasing their concentration. Contraindications are not definitively established due to limited data, but caution is advised for pregnant or lactating individuals, and those with severe hepatic or renal impairment, as extensive safety data in these populations are lacking. No specific high-risk groups have been identified, but further studies are needed to fully assess long-term safety and specific population risks.
Dosage
Clinical trials typically use standardized Berberis aristata extracts providing berberine doses ranging from 500 mg to 1500 mg daily. For metabolic benefits, an optimal range appears to be around 500–1000 mg of berberine per day. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses above 1500 mg/day may increase the likelihood of side effects. The extract is usually administered in divided doses with meals to improve absorption and minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. For consistency and efficacy, extracts standardized to their berberine content are preferred. Factors influencing absorption include P-gp, and co-administration with P-gp inhibitors or compounds like silymarin has been studied for potential synergistic effects and enhanced bioavailability.
FAQs
Is Berberis aristata extract safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests good safety for short to medium-term use. However, comprehensive data on its long-term safety, especially beyond several months, are still limited and require further research.
How soon do benefits appear when taking Berberis aristata extract?
Improvements in lipid and glucose parameters, such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels, are typically observed within 8–12 weeks of consistent use in clinical trials.
Can Berberis aristata extract be combined with other supplements?
Combination with silymarin has shown additive benefits for liver health. However, caution is advised when combining with other medications due to potential interactions related to P-glycoprotein (P-gp) modulation.
Is Berberis aristata extract the same as pure berberine?
No, Berberis aristata extract contains berberine as its primary active compound, but it also includes other alkaloids and plant constituents that may contribute to its overall effects and benefits.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33040642/ – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of Berberis aristata on metabolic syndrome. It found significant reductions in LDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glucose, alongside an increase in HDL, indicating its efficacy in improving lipid profiles and glucose metabolism in metabolic syndrome patients.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11397700/ – This preclinical study provided a comprehensive phytochemical and safety analysis of Berberis aristata. It confirmed berberine as the main constituent, demonstrated good bioaccessibility, limited cytotoxicity, and minimal CYP450 interaction, while also showing inhibition of cancer cell migration in vitro.
- https://www.authorea.com/users/729040/articles/709724-effects-berberine-silymarin-on-liver-enzymes-a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis-of-randomized-controlled-trials – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the combined effects of berberine and silymarin on liver enzymes. It reported significant reductions in ALT and other liver enzymes, suggesting a beneficial role for this combination in liver health, particularly in patients with liver disease or metabolic conditions.
