Does berberine improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Berberine, a natural plant compound, may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Several studies suggest it can reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol and total cholesterol while supporting healthy triglyceride levels, making it a promising supplement for cardiovascular health.

If you're experiencing symptoms that concern you or want clarity on whether high cholesterol or another condition may be affecting your health, don't guess—get informed. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand what's going on in minutes and guide your next steps, whether that's a lifestyle change, a supplement conversation, or a visit to your doctor. Taking a few minutes now could save you time, worry, and money later.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if berberine affects your cholesterol Learn if berberine lowers triglycerides safely See if your cholesterol needs care today Find OTC options for cholesterol support Find a cholesterol doctor near you Understand medically valid ways to lower cholesterol Discover if berberine is right for you

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Explanation

Berberine is a compound found in plants that has been studied for its potential health benefits, including effects on cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Some research suggests that berberine can help improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels. For instance, one study found that it might lower these levels in both men and women.
Systematic Review Findings: A review of multiple studies indicates that berberine may have a positive effect on these blood fats. This means it could be helpful for people looking to manage their cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Combination with Other Treatments: Another study suggests that berberine can be effective when used alone or in combination with other treatments. This could make it a versatile option for improving blood fat levels.

In summary, while some studies show promising results, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including berberine. If you're experiencing symptoms related to cholesterol or other health concerns, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be going on and have a more informed conversation with your doctor.

(References)

Blais JE, Huang X, & Zhao JV. (2023). Overall and Sex-Specific Effect of Berberine for the .... Drugs, 36941490.
Hernandez AV, Hwang J, Nasreen I, Sicignano D, Pasupuleti V, Snow-Caroti K, & White CM. (2024). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of dietary supplements, 37183391.
Zhang LS, Zhang JH, Feng R, Jin XY, Yang FW, Ji ZC, et al. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of Berberine Alone or Combined with .... The American journal of Chinese medicine, 31094214.

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