Berberine is a supplement that naturally occurs in various plants. It may be effective in managing certain aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), such as insulin sensitivity, weight management, and cholesterol levels.

PCOS is an endocrine condition that affects various hormones. It can cause many symptoms, such as weight gain, insulin resistance, facial hair growth, and hair loss.

There is currently no cure for PCOS. However, various treatment options can help manage the symptoms. Berberine is a herbal supplement that may be effective in helping reduce certain PCOS symptoms.

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Berberine is a yellow-colored, bitter-tasting chemical in various plants, such as tree turmeric, Oregon grape, golden seal, and European barberry.

Plants like these have a long historyTrusted Source of use for medicinal purposes in certain cultures, for example, traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine.

People have used berberine to help with:

Some research suggests that berberine may be an effective complementary or alternative treatment for PCOS.

Insulin sensitivity

Around 35 to 80% of individuals with PCOS have insulin resistance. Without treatment, insulin resistance can lead to type 2 diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50%Trusted Source of people with PCOS develop type 2 diabetes by the age of 40.

Research from 2017 suggests berberine may help manage insulin resistance by increasing the production of compounds in the body responsible for aiding insulin sensitivity and carbohydrate metabolism.

Further research from 2020 found that berberine was significantly more effective in improving insulin sensitivity than a placebo.

An animal study from 2022 found that taking berberine with metformin, a common medication for PCOS, may further improve insulin resistance. However, researchers cannot draw conclusions about human health based on the results of animal studies.

Weight management

Obesity is a common issueTrusted Source among people with PCOS. PCOS may cause excess fat to develop around the abdomen.

Research from 2017 shows that berberine may help with weight management due to its ability to stimulate the redistribution of fatty tissues and reduce the body’s tendency to store fat.

Other research from 2022 also found that berberine may help significantly decrease both weight and body mass index (BMI).

However, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source notes that assessing the effects of berberine can be difficult. In studies, the amounts and formulations of berberine vary widely, and participants typically have other health issues, such as diabetes or fatty liver disease. These factors can affect study results.

While early research is promising, more is needed to verify the effectiveness of berberine in aiding weight loss.

Cholesterol

Individuals with PCOS may have an increased risk of developing heart disease. Berberine may play a role in reducing certain risk factors of heart disease.

A 2022 study of its use found that participants had a significant reduction in triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which people sometimes call “bad cholesterol.” They also showed increased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, sometimes called “good cholesterol.”

Out of the three medications and supplements the researchers looked at in the study, berberine improved the lipid profile of the participants the most.

People generally tolerate berberine well. However, it can cause certain side effects that are typically mild.

Side effects of berberine includeTrusted Source:

Berberine may also interact with certain medications. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning to take any supplements, including berberine.

Berberine may also be unsafe for those who are pregnant or nursing.

Further resources

For more in-depth resources about vitamins, minerals, and supplements, visit our dedicated hub.

Berberine is a natural chemical in various plants. Early research suggests it may be effective in helping manage certain aspects of PCOS, including weight management, cholesterol level management, and insulin sensitivity.

While research is ongoing, evidence so far suggests berberine may be an effective complementary or alternative treatment for PCOS.

People generally tolerate berberine well. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning to take any supplements, as they may interact with other medications.