NaturalPedia > Berberine

Quotes about Berberine from the world's top natural health / natural living authors

Share

Tweet

Email to a friend   |  Click here for FREE email alerts

page 1 of 8 | Next ->

"Chinese goldthread/Barberry is a combination of two plant extracts containing a phytochemical called berberine. berberine is a natural anti-inflammatory that reduces PGE2. Most recently, studies have found that berberine induces apoptosis, or cell death, in human colon cancer cell lines. A direct link between colon cancer and chronic inflammation has been accepted in medicine for years now; drugs that inhibit the COX-2 enzyme have been extensively studied as colon cancer chemopreventives." - Freedom Press, Natural Cancer Cures: The Definitive Guide to Using Dietary Supplements to Fight and Prevent Cancer (Get the book.)

"Goldenseal and Oregon grape root are two of the most important herbs for bladder infections due to their antimicrobial properties. berberine, an alkaloid constituent found in the rhizome and root of these plants, has demonstrated antibacterial activity against E. coli species, Klebsiella species, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas species.23'24 berberine is effective against many bacteria and is also able to fight infections by inhibiting the bacteria from adhering to the host cell.25 It is unsafe for pregnant women and best not used by lactating women." - Tori Hudson, N.D., Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness (Get the book.)

"Studies of berberine have found that this plant chemical reduces proliferation and increases cell death in test tube studies with human cancer cell strains. Other research finds that berberine improves indicators of heart function and heart pumping strength, and may aid in preventing cardiac blood vessels from tightening, resulting in a reduced risk of heart attack and cancer. The herbs in Zyflamend offer many benefits and are full spectrum and not processed or overloaded with one marker chemical like in some less-natural preparations." - Freedom Press, Natural Cancer Cures: The Definitive Guide to Using Dietary Supplements to Fight and Prevent Cancer (Get the book.)

"It does, however, contain very small amounts of a group of constituents known as alkaloids, including berberine, hydrastine, and canadine. These are considered the active substances, and often, they're the constituents that are tested. THE berberine FACTOR There has been a lot of research on berberine, but usually in the form of berberine sulfate, which is much more concentrated than the amount present in goldenseal. berberine sulfate has been shown in test-tube studies to have antimicrobial power, so it can help wipe out many bacteria, fungi, and parasites." - Mark Stengler, N.D., The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies (Get the book.)

"Remedies that kill Candida are garlic, caprylic acid, berberine, black walnut, cinnamon bark oil, grapefruit seed extract, tea tree and oregano oil. According to studies by Nigel Plummer PhD, a microbiologist who works with Seroyal, only garlic and cinnamon have been shown to have no toxic effects in the body. Probiotics are also helpful in treating dysbiosis. They can be taken to improve one's own beneficial bacteria. It is best to use a standardized supplement that is kept in the fridge. (Acidophilus found in yogurt may not have any live culture left after delivery." - Heather Caruso, Your Drug-Free Guide to Digestive Health (Get the book.)

"Coptis contains the isoquinoline berberine chlorides, sulfates, and coptisine; berberine is the bright yellow, bitter antimicrobial alkaloid discussed in the previous chapter. Coptis berberines have been extensively studied in Asia for their anti-inflammatory effects; coptis also has liver-protective properties and anti-cancer activity. Coptis can be used by itself or in combination with other berberine-containing compounds and along with other antimicrobial herbs to treat systemic bacterial co-infections." - J. E. Williams, O.M.D., Viral Immunity (Get the book.)

"This immune effect is especially specific in epithelial mucus membrane tissue as is found in the vagina, mouth, and even the stomach. berberine has been shown to possess antimicrobial activity against a wide variety of microorganisms, including those found in the vagina, such as Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and others.51 Preparations of goldenseal and Oregon grape root have been used both orally in teas, caps, and liquid extracts and intravaginally in douches and suppositories." - Tori Hudson, N.D., Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness (Get the book.)

"Most recently, studies have found that berberine induces apoptosis, or cell death, in human colon cancer cell lines. A direct link between colon cancer and chronic inflammation has been accepted in medicine for years now; drugs that inhibit the COX-2 enzyme have been extensively studied as colon cancer chemopreventives. Oregano is a well-known culinary herb that contains at least 31 antioxidant phenolic acids and flavonoids, packing plenty of antioxidant activity." - Freedom Press, Natural Cancer Cures: The Definitive Guide to Using Dietary Supplements to Fight and Prevent Cancer (Get the book.)

"Klebsiella species, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas species.23'24 berberine is effective against many bacteria and is also able to fight infections by inhibiting the bacteria from adhering to the host cell.25 It is unsafe for pregnant women and best not used by lactating women. Goldenseal Freeze-dried root: 500-1,000 mg Dried root: 1-2 g per day Tincture: 1-1 Vz tsp per day Additional Botanicals. Other botanicals have been traditionally used for bladder infections with positive effect." - Tori Hudson, N.D., Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness (Get the book.) "In addition, evidence suggests that berberine may also decrease inflammation by inhibiting arachidonic acid metabolism in endothelial cells.65 Sample Treatment Plan See the Resources section for formulation sources." - Tori Hudson, N.D., Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness (Get the book.)

"These herbs contain berberine, a natural antibiotic that acts against Candida overgrowth, normalizes intestinal flora, helps digestive problems, has antidiar-rheal properties, and stimulates the immune system by increasing blood supply to the spleen. They may be taken three times daily as a tea (2 to 4 grams), tincture (6 to 12 ml), fluid extract (2 to 4 ml), or powdered solid (250 to 500 mg). Caution: Berberine-containing plants are generally nontoxic at recommended dosages, but high doses can interfere with the metabolism of B vitamins. They are not recommended for use by pregnant women." - Herbert Ross, DC with Keri Brenner, L.Ac., Alternative Medicine Magazine's Definitive Guide to Sleep Disorders: 7 Smart Ways to Help You Get a Good Night's Rest (Get the book.)

"Basic herbs, such as pumpkin seeds, berberine, garlic, or caprylic acid, can clear up may bowel problems. Also, products with plant tannins can kill many unwanted bowel bacteria and yeast. You should notice improved bowel function while on the herbs. If not, you should do a digestive analysis or an organic acid test through specialty labs (listed in chapter 6). I recommend an herbal bowel cleanse to patients each spring, and certainly if there are digestive symptoms. • Eat a healthy diet with plenty of whole grains, and four to eight varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables each day." - Phuli Cohan, The Natural Hormone Makeover: 10 Steps to Rejuvenate Your Health and Rediscover Your Inner Glow (Get the book.)

"These plants have been used for infections of the skin and digestive tract, gallbladder inflammation, and liver cirrhosis.68 berberine appears to kill tumor cells and also to enhance immune system function by stimulating white blood cells.69 However, without adequate human studies, there is no way of knowing whether berberine has a significant cancer-preventive effect in people (for more information about berberine, see Goldenseal in the The Natural Pharmacist: Your Complete Guide to Herbs). What Is the Scientific Evidence for berberine?" - Richard Harkness, The Natural Pharmacist: Your Complete Guide to Reducing Cancer Risk (Get the book.) "In laboratory studies, berberine has demonstrated anticancer activity against malignant brain tumors in both rats and humans.70 For brain tumor cells, berberine at a dose of 150 mcg/ml showed a cell kill rate of 91%. In comparison, the cell kill rate was 43% for BCNU, the standard chemotherapeutic agent for brain tumors. In rats with brain tumors, berberine at 10 mg/kg showed a cell kill rate of 81%. Combining the two agents was even more effective. Dosage A possible cancer-preventive dosage for berberine in humans is unknown. For goldenseal, typical doses are 0." - Richard Harkness, The Natural Pharmacist: Your Complete Guide to Reducing Cancer Risk (Get the book.)

"The College of Medicine of the National University of Taiwan identified kaempferol, a constituent of berberine, as a strikingly active inhibitor of COX-2 activity (Chen et al. 1999; Newmark et al. 2000). berberine is unique, having the ability to inhibit COX-2 activity without involving the beneficial COX-1 enzyme. berberine, perhaps by impacting the production of cyclooxygenase, influences the development of cancers at various sites: • The China Medical College of Taiwan was one of the first to teport that berberine was effective against bladder cancers (Chung et al. 1999)." - The Life Extension Editorial Staff, Disease Prevention and Treatment (Get the book.)

"Other research finds that berberine improves indicators of heart function and heart pumping strength, and may aid in preventing cardiac blood vessels from tightening, resulting in a reduced risk of heart attack and cancer. The herbs in Zyflamend offer many benefits and are full spectrum and not processed or overloaded with one marker chemical like in some less-natural preparations. As Western medicine slowly awakens to the fact that plants are effective anti-inflammatory agents, more research and clinical studies into specific herbal combinations are sure to follow." - Freedom Press, Natural Cancer Cures: The Definitive Guide to Using Dietary Supplements to Fight and Prevent Cancer (Get the book.)

"The secret ingredient is berberine, which soothes angry, red eczema patches. To make the tincture: Put one teaspoon of chopped root (found in a well-stocked herbal store) in a pint of gin, and let the mixture sit for two weeks. Add a teaspoon of tincture to a mild, unscented lotion for a medicated skin cream. Apply the cream a few times a day to the affected area. (To simplify the treatment, you may be able to buy the tincture pre-made at herb shops.) Does Massage Help the Skin?" - Bottom Line Books, Uncommon Cures For Everyday Ailments (Get the book.) "According to naturopaths and herbalists, yeast is one of the microorganisms particularly vulnerable to berberine. For tea, brew one heaping teaspoon of the dried herb in a cup of water. Drink twice a day. RECURRENT INFECTIONS • Dietary Changes Can Make a Difference The good news first: Millions of women are now able to treat their vaginal yeast infections at home, using over-the-counter medicines that formerly were available by prescription only." - Bottom Line Books, Uncommon Cures For Everyday Ailments (Get the book.)

"Coptis contains the isoquinoline berberine chlorides, sulfates, and coptisine; berberine is the bright yellow, bitter antimicrobial alkaloid discussed in the previous chapter. Coptis berberines have been extensively studied in Asia for their anti-inflammatory effects; coptis also has liver-protective properties and anti-cancer activity. Coptis can be used by itself or in combination with other berberine-containing compounds and along with other antimicrobial herbs to treat systemic bacterial co-infections." - J. E. Williams, Viral Immunity: A 10-Step Plan to Enhance Your Immunity against Viral Disease Using Natural Medicines (Get the book.)

"In some of these plants, berberine and co-occurring alkaloids have equally potent physiological effects. For example, in the well-known herbs Hydrastis canadensis and Sanguinaria canadensis, the pharmacological effects are not caused by berberine alone. Berberine is found in highest concentration (about 6.1%) in the root bark of Berberis vulgaris, with smaller amounts in the aboveground stem bark and just 0.4% in the woody portion of the root. Only traces of berberine are present in the leaves, and the alkaloid is absent from the flowers, fruit pulp, and seeds." - David Hoffman, FNIMH, AHG, Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices Of Herbal Medicine (Get the book.)

"It contains a natural antibiotic known as berberine, making it a great solution for sores and spots associated with infection and illness. Brew tea from a teaspoon of dried goldenseal and hot water, then strain and refrigerate the liquid. Use the chilled tea as a mouth rinse, three to four times a day until the area is healed. SKIN SORES • Go Bananas! If a skin irritation is driving you crazy, go to the produce store and buy some extremely ripe bananas." - Bottom Line Books, Uncommon Cures For Everyday Ailments (Get the book.)

"Achromycin V), was found to significantly improve acute watery diarrhea and excretion of vibrios after 24 hours, compared with placebo in patients with cholera-induced diarrhea. berberine had no benefit over placebo in patients with non-cholera diarrhea.* berberine does not appear to exert its antidiarrheal effect by astringency, and the mechanism of action has not been defined.^ Berberine has anticonvulsant, sedative, and uterine-stimulant properties. Local anesthesia can occur following SC injection of berberine." Berbamine produces a hypotensive effect." - Ara Dermarderosian, Guide to Popular Natural Products (Get the book.)

"Coptis contains the isoquinoline berberine chlorides, sulfates, and coptisine; berberine is the bright yellow, bitter antimicrobial alkaloid discussed in the previous chapter. Coptis berberines have been extensively studied in Asia for their anti-inflammatory effects; coptis also has liver-protective properties and anti-cancer activity. Coptis can be used by itself or in combination with other berberine-containing compounds and along with other antimicrobial herbs to treat systemic bacterial co-infections." - J. E. Williams, Viral Immunity: A 10-Step Plan to Enhance Your Immunity against Viral Disease Using Natural Medicines (Get the book.)

"Health Benefits The root and stem bark of the plant contain tannin and a substance known as berberine, which may account for the plants effectiveness in treating diarrhea. berberine salts, derived from barberry and other plants, are used in eyedrops and eyewashes. In ancient Egypt a syrup made of common barberry mixed with fennel seed was used against plagues; this concoction was probably effective because, as modern research indicates, the plant has antibacterial properties that would help ward off infectious diseases." - Dianne Onstad, Whole Foods Companion: A Guide For Adventurous Cooks, Curious Shoppers, and lovers of natural foods (Get the book.)

"Constituents Flavonoids (rutin, zeaxanthin), alkaloids (protopine, allocryptine, berberine, sanguinarine) Energetic Correspondences • Flavor: bitter • Temperature: cool • Moisture: dry • Polarity: yin • Planet: Sun/Mercury • Element: air Contraindications Avoid in cases of depression. Excess use can cause one to feel hung over in the morning. Range and Appearance California poppy, a perennial or hardy annual, is native to the southwestern United States; in fact, it is the state flower of California. It grows wild in sunny areas, reaching a height of 1 to 3 feet." - Brigitte Mars, A.H.G., The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine: The Ultimate Multidisciplinary Reference to the Amazing Realm of Healing Plants, in a Quick-study, One-stop Guide (Get the book.)

"Sun, et al., "Berberine Sulfate Blocks Adherence of Streptococcus pyogens to Epithelial Cells, Fibronectin, and Hexadeceane," Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 32(9), September 1988, p. 1370-1374. Cancer Results of this study found that berberine sulfate, an isoquinoline alkaloid from Hydrastis canadensis L., posessed antitumor-promoting activity in the two-stage carcinogenesis experiment on mouse skin. —H. Nishino, et al., "Berberine Sulfate Inhibits Tumor-Promoting Activity of Teleocidin in Two-Stage Carcinogenesis on Mouse Skin," Oncology, 43, 1986, P. 131-134." - Gary Null, Ph.D., The Clinician's Handbook of Natural Healing (Get the book.)

"Constituents Isoquinoline, alkaloids (sanguinarine, berberine, whelidonine, chelerythrine) Energetic Correspondences • Flavor: bitter • Temperature: hot • Moisture: dry • Polarity: yang • Planet: Mars • Element: fire Contraindications Bloodroot is best used under the guidance of a qualified health-care practitioner. Use only very small doses internally, as large doses can cause vomiting, faintness, a burning sensation in the stomach, and temporary paralysis; excessive doses may be deadly. Avoid both topical and internal use during pregnancy, while nursing, and in cases of glaucoma." - Brigitte Mars, A.H.G., The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine: The Ultimate Multidisciplinary Reference to the Amazing Realm of Healing Plants, in a Quick-study, One-stop Guide (Get the book.)

"Since berberine is not well absorbed, Oregon grape root might not provide adequate amounts of this compound to treat significant systemic infections (page 265). A physician should be consulted in the case of infection before attempting to use Oregon grape. An ointment made with 10% Oregon grape extract applied three or more times daily may be useful for psoriasis (page 379). Are there any side effects or interactions? Oregon grape is thought to be safe in the amounts indicated above. Long-term (more than two to three weeks) internal use is not recommended." - Alan R. Gaby, M.D., Jonathan V. Wright, M.D., Forrest Batz, Pharm.D. Rick Chester, RPh., N.D., DipLAc. George Constantine, R.Ph., Ph.D. Linnea D. Thompson, Pharm.D., N.D., The Natural Pharmacy: Complete A-Z Reference to Natural Treatments for Common Health Conditions (Get the book.)

"Barberry—This fruit contains a compound called berberine, a natural antibiotic. Recent studies have confirmed the infection-fighting properties of berberine; it is effective against E coli which causes urinary tract infections. (Berberine is also found in goldenseal, another natural antibiotic.) Personal Advice Get enough fluid—As part of any healthy diet, drink six to eight glasses of water a day and minimize your intake of aicohol and caffeine. Don't make a habit of holding in your urine. Urinate every two to three hours." - Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., Earl Mindell's Secret Remedies (Get the book.)

page 1 of 8 | Next ->

FAIR USE NOTICE: The research quoted here is provided under the protection of Fair Use provisions and published by the 501(c)3 non-profit Consumer Wellness Center for the purposes of public comment and education. Authors / publishers may submit books for consideration of inclusion here.

TERMS OF USE: Read full terms of use. Citations of text from NaturalPedia must include: 1) Full credit to the original author and book title. 2) Secondary credit to the Natural News Naturalpedia as a research resource and a link to www.NaturalPedia.com

This unique compilation of research is copyright (c) 2008, 2009 by the non-profit Consumer Wellness Center.

ABOUT THE CREATOR OF NATURALPEDIA: Mike Adams, the creator of NaturalPedia, is the editor of NaturalNews.com, the internet's top natural health news site, creator of the Honest Food Guide (www.HonestFoodGuide.org), a free downloadable consumer food guide based on natural health principles, author of Grocery Warning, The 7 Laws of Nutrition, Natural Health Solutions, and many other books available at www.TruthPublishing.com, creator of the earth-friendly EcoLEDs company (www.EcoLEDs.com) that manufactures energy-efficient LED lighting products, founder of Arial Software (www.ArialSoftware.com), a permission e-mail technology company, creator of the CounterThink Cartoon series (www.NaturalNews.com/index-cartoons.html) and author of over 1,500 articles, interviews, special reports and reference guides available at www.NaturalNews.com. Adams' personal philosophy and health statistics are available at www.HealthRanger.org.