Can Berberine Help with Weight Loss?

January 22, 2026 | Source: Medical News Today | by Ben Koprowski

Berberine is a bioactive compound in several plants. It is antimicrobial and has a long history of use in traditional medicine.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved berberine for treating any medical conditions in the United States, including obesity. Research into whether it could be a safe or effective aid for people who want to lose weight is ongoing.

This article discusses berberine and whether it may help with weight loss. It also discusses the compound’s other benefits, risks, and side effects.

Berberine, or berberine hydrochloride, is a bioactive compound present in several plants.

These plants include shrubs from around the world belonging to the Berberis family, as well asTrusted Source:

Barberry, goldenseal, golden thread, Oregon grape, tree turmeric