What Herbs Have Berberine in Them? A Comprehensive Guide

January 9, 2026 •

2 min read

Traditional medicine systems have used berberine for over 3,000 years. Found in various plant parts, this guide explores what herbs have berberine in them and their potential benefits.

Quick Summary

This guide covers the herbs rich in berberine, such as goldenseal and barberry. It provides information on uses, extraction, and considerations for incorporating these natural berberine sources.

Key Points

Plant Sources: Berberine is in many plants, especially from the Berberis genus, like goldenseal and barberry.
Rich Plant Parts: Berberine is most concentrated in the roots, bark, and rhizomes of these plants.
Traditional Use: These herbs have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine.
Modern Research: Research explores berberine's potential for metabolic and antimicrobial benefits.
Safety First: Berberine can interact with medications and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Seek medical advice.
Not a Cure: Berberine is not a replacement for prescription medicines and should be used with caution.
Concentration Varies: Berberine amounts differ based on the plant species, part used, growing conditions, and extraction methods.

Herbs Containing Berberine

Berberine is present in several plant species, mainly in the roots, bark, and rhizomes. These herbs have a history in traditional healing practices.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal, a North American herb, contains berberine in its rhizome. It also contains hydrastine and canadine. Over-harvesting has put wild goldenseal on conservation watchlists.

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)

Barberry is a shrub native to Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia. Its roots and bark are rich in berberine and traditionally used for digestive support. Other Berberis species also contain berberine.

Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)

Oregon grape, a member of the barberry family, has berberine in its root bark and yellow inner stems. Traditionally, it was used for various conditions, and some research suggests it may help skin issues.

Chinese Goldthread (Coptis chinensis)

Chinese goldthread's rhizome is a strong source of berberine. It's been used for centuries to treat inflammatory and infectious conditions.

Phellodendron (Phellodendron amurense)

Phellodendron, also known as Amur cork tree, contains berberine in its bark. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for inflammation and digestive issues, modern research examines its metabolic effects.

Comparison of Berberine-Rich Herbs

Berberine-containing plants differ in alkaloid concentration, historical use, and origin. For a detailed comparison, including primary source part, notable compounds, geographic origin, conservation status, and traditional use focus, please refer to {Link: HerbRally https://www.herbrally.com/monographs/oregon-grape}. Berberine content varies based on plant part, harvesting time, plant age, growing conditions, and extraction method.

Precautions and Interactions

Use these potent herbs cautiously. Consult a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. Berberine can interact with drugs and is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Potential Drug Interactions

Diabetes Medications
Blood Thinners
Immunosuppressants

Conclusion

Berberine, a natural compound, is found in various herbs. Understanding its sources and potential interactions is important. For more information, see {Link: Reem Hospital https://www.reemhospital.com/health-hub/berberine-supplement/}. Key herbs include Barberry, Goldenseal, Oregon Grape, Chinese Goldthread, Phellodendron, Tree Turmeric, and Yellowroot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Berberine, an alkaloid in goldenseal's roots and rhizomes, is responsible for its medicinal properties.

No, barberry and Oregon grape are not the same, though both are in the Berberidaceae family and contain berberine. Oregon grape is in the Mahonia genus, while barberry is in the Berberis genus.

Common foods do not contain berberine in high enough concentrations for significant therapeutic benefits. Berberine is best obtained from supplements.

No, berberine potency varies between herbs and plant parts. Growing conditions and age also play a role.

Yes, berberine can interact with many medications. Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions.

No, berberine-containing herbs are likely unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Berberine can cross the placenta and may cause or worsen jaundice in infants.

The highest berberine concentrations in barberry are in its roots and bark.