Berberine HCl (Hydrochloride)

Berberine

Supports healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels; consult healthcare provider if taking medications.

Part of Berberine botanical
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Typical dose

500-1500 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses with m...

Oral Oral safety: low

About this supplement

Berberine HCl (Hydrochloride) is the hydrochloride salt form of berberine, a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid found in several plants including Berberis species (e.g., barberry), Coptis chinensis (goldthread), and Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal). This salt form enhances the stability and bioavailability of berberine, which is otherwise poorly soluble in water. Berberine HCl is widely used as a dietary supplement and has been extensively researched for its metabolic, cardiovascular, and antimicrobial properties. It functions primarily by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key cellular energy sensor, and modulating various signaling pathways involved in glucose and lipid metabolism.

How much to take

Typical amount
500-1500 mg daily, divided into 2-3 doses with meals.
Suggested range
500-1500 mg daily

Potential benefits

Benefits linked to this supplement form:

Cholesterol Reduction

Research strength: Strong

 Blood Sugar Control

Research strength: Very strong

 Cardiovascular Support

Research strength: Moderate

 Anti-inflammatory Effects

Research strength: Moderate

 Blood Sugar Regulation

Research strength: Strong

 Lipid Profile Improvement

Research strength: Strong

 Antimicrobial Activity

Research strength: Strong

 Metabolic Syndrome Management

Research strength: Strong

 Lipid Management

Research strength: Strong

 Gut Health Support

Research strength: Moderate

Things to watch for

Possible side effects linked to this form:

Digestive Upset

How serious: Mild

 Gastrointestinal Discomfort

How serious: low

 Drug Interactions

How serious: medium

 Hypoglycemia Risk

How serious: medium

 Bilirubin Elevation in Infants

How serious: high

 Berberine-induced Jaundice

How serious: high

Health goals

Needs and goals this form may help with:

Other forms of Berberine

Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:

Berberine Phytosome/Phospholipid Complex

Enhanced absorption berberine for metabolic support
Berberine Sulfate

Metabolic support supplement derived from traditional medicinal plants
Dihydroberberine

Enhanced-absorption form of berberine for metabolic support
Compare all forms in the table
Technical details â–¼

Chemical ID (CAS)

633-65-8

Formula

C20H18ClNO4

Physical properties

Bright yellow crystalline powder; odorless with a bitter taste. Soluble in water and ethanol; slightly soluble in chloroform and ether. Melting point approximately 200-204°C (decomposes). Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air).

How it’s made

Berberine HCl is typically extracted from the roots, rhizomes, and stem bark of plants such as Berberis aristata (Indian barberry), Coptis chinensis, or Hydrastis canadensis. The process involves solvent extraction (e.g., using ethanol or water) followed by purification and conversion to the hydrochloride salt via acidification. Some commercial berberine HCl may also be produced semi-synthetically from simpler precursors to ensure purity and consistency.