Berberine Improves NAFLD Biomarkers

Berberine is a plant compound found in several herbs, including Indian barberry, (Berberis aristata), Oregon grape, (Mahonia aquifolium), and goldenseal, (Hydrastis canadensis), and has been traditionally used to promote metabolic and digestive health. Modern research affirms this application, with studies suggesting that berberine may help promote healthy liver function by supporting normal lipid metabolism and maintaining balanced blood sugar levels — both important factors for overall liver wellness. By helping the body manage fats and sugars more efficiently, berberine contributes to a healthy internal environment that supports the liver’s natural detoxification and metabolic processes.

One practical application for berberine is in the management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also known as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) — a condition where fat builds up in the liver not caused by alcohol. This has become a major global health problem. A recent meta-analysis of clinical and pre-clinical studies was conducted to see how well berberine, a natural compound used for centuries in traditional medicine to help with blood sugar and cholesterol, could help improve this condition.

After reviewing nearly 500 studies, the researchers included 22 studies (4 in humans and 18 in animals). In people with NAFLD, berberine significantly lowered fasting blood sugar levels, showing it may help improve the body’s ability to process glucose. In animal studies, berberine also improved liver enzyme levels (ALT and AST) and improved lipid profiles.

Overall, the evidence suggests that berberine may help support liver health and promote balanced metabolism in individuals with NAFLD. The consistent and encouraging results from animal studies further strengthen the rationale for conducting larger, well-designed human clinical trials to validate these promising findings.