Berberine is a phytochemical belonging to the alkaloid group. Berberine is found in high amounts in the plant goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis). Evidence suggests that berberine has particular effects on the central nervous system that may explain its mood elevating effects. When extracted, berberine is an intense yellow colour and supplements of berberine are therefore usually yellow. Berberine is poorly absorbed and so the pharmacological effects of the herb may be attenuated somewhat by this. Mechanistically, berberine may be able to upregulate levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Berberine is also thought to possess significant antioxidant capacity which may be neuroprotective. As well as this berberine can act to reduce neuroinflammation. Berberine may also decrease blood cortisol levels, an effect that protects the consumer from stress. Lastly, berberine may also depress nitric oxide levels, and this may have antidepressant effects.
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