Evidence supporting the use of: Barberry
For the health condition: Fat Metabolism (poor)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for a variety of ailments, but its more recent application in supporting fat metabolism is mainly based on emerging scientific research. The primary active compound in barberry is berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid. Several animal and human studies have investigated berberine’s effects on metabolism, lipid profiles, and weight management. Berberine has been shown to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of energy homeostasis, which is believed to promote increased fat oxidation and improved glucose and lipid metabolism. Some clinical studies have reported that berberine supplementation can lead to modest reductions in body weight, body mass index (BMI), and serum lipid levels, including triglycerides and cholesterol.

However, while the evidence on berberine is promising, direct studies specifically on barberry as a whole plant extract and its impact on fat metabolism in humans remain limited. Most research isolates berberine rather than using the entire barberry plant. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence to support its use for improving fat metabolism, the overall body of evidence is still considered limited and not robust enough for strong clinical recommendations. More high-quality, large-scale human trials are needed to substantiate the efficacy and safety of barberry (and berberine) for this specific indication.

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