Respiratory: Runny nose, helps treat flu, boggy, inflamed mucus membranes, chronic sinus infections, hay fever, pneumonia, decongestant, allergies

Eyes: conjunctivitis

Ears: tinnitus, earache, diminished hearing

Cardiovascular: May lower blood pressure (especially systolic) and may improve irregular heartbeats (per WebMD, Drugs.com). Proposed to help congestive heart failure (need more studies)

Gastrointestinal: It helps heal stomach ulcers, indigestion, gastritis, diarrhea, constipation, IBS, colitis, hemorrhoids, gas, internal bleeding, liver disorders/fatty liver, as well as mouth and gum problems. Claims to have properties similar to antibiotics used to treat H. pylori (the bacteria that are the cause of many stomach ulcers).

Genitourinary: Urinary tract infections, Dysmenorrhea, vaginal pain, irregular periods

Skin: Helps wound healing, rashes, itching, eczema, acne, dandruff, wound infections, ringworm, herpes blisters, cold sores, snake bites

Neurologic: Chronic fatigue

Cholesterol: Improves cholesterol/triglycerides (possibly for statin-intolerant people)

Mental Health: Anorexia

Glucose: Helps lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance

Cancer: May help reduce the incidence of precancerous polyps

Infectious Disease: Malaria, whooping cough, gonorrhea

Other: Fever, modest weight loss (belly fat)

                                                  *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Mouth and throat irritation, stomach ache, constipation, hallucinations, excitability/nervousness, delirium, skin irritation, photosensitivity (skin reaction to light), low blood pressure, cardiac problems (overdose), depression, certain ventricular arrhythmias (also considered to prevent some types of these)

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: This herb can be lethal in overdose. Be aware of safe dosages. It is not recommended for those with liver problems, diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, and blood pressure medicine or sedatives. It should not be taken with certain antifungals or some cancer medications. It should not be taken with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6-metabolized medications. There is a question of whether Goldenseal/berberine may also interact with medicines pumped by C-glycoprotein substrates. It has potential interactions with many other conventional drugs and herbs.

FORMS: Linament, capsules, extracts, tea (bulk), powder, tincture, eye balm, cream

Recommended Brands

Note: Because most goldenseal products fall short of effective levels of berberine (the active compound in goldenseal), it is best to purchase and use berberine products instead of goldenseal. However, even some berberine products fall short of stated berberine concentration. In addition, lead levels may be high in some products. The following have been third‑party tested for quality, quantity, and purity:

• GlucoVantage® Super Berberine capsules 

• Natural Factors® WellBetX® Berberine 500 mg capsules (order through Fullscript link here)

• Swanson® Berberine capsules 

• GNC Herbal Plus® Goldenseal Root Extract 200 mg capsule 

• Thorne Berberine — NSF certified — (order through Fullscript link here)

• Thorne Berberine 200 mg (formerly Berbercap) — NSF certified — (order through Fullscript link here)

• Enzymedica Berberine 500 mg — NSF certified — (order through Fullscript link here)

• Allergy Research Group Berberine (Berberine HCl) 500 mg — NSF certified — (order through Fullscript link here)

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Many products also offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traditional herbal practices describe the use of berberine‑containing herbs and extracts in capsule, tincture, or powder form. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products. Many people use berberine for metabolic support, digestive comfort, or general wellness, but evidence varies and product strengths differ significantly.

Some consumer health sites describe various regimens used in research studies. These reflect study protocols rather than standardized clinical recommendations.

Note: Some people combine berberine with red yeast rice for additional cholesterol‑lowering support. This reflects consumer practice rather than evidence‑based medical guidance.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Goldenseal and berberine‑containing plants have been used traditionally for digestive support, immune wellness, and general herbal care. Traditional practices describe the use of roots, powders, teas, and later extracts. These uses are based on historical and consumer experience rather than strong clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com, German Commission e or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.