How To Choose The Best Berberine Supplement?
Berberine is a powerful supplement with benefits for blood sugar and insulin resistance(4), cholesterol(2), metabolism, and weight control(1)—but not all supplements are created equal. The best berberine supplement depends on absorption, effectiveness, and personal needs. Always read the back label to ensure no fillers or unnecessary ingredients like fillers, sweeteners, bulking agents, etc.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular formulations of Berberine Supplements:
1. Berberine HCl (Hydrochloride) – Most Natural Version
This is the most common and well-researched form of berberine supplement. While its absorption is not as good as newer versions, it’s still highly effective and is the most affordable. It is extracted from plants like goldthread, barberry, and tree turmeric and minimally processed -purified, and converted into hydrochloride (HCl) for better stability and absorption.
Best for: General metabolic health support in a natural way.
2. Berberine with Bioenhancers (Piperine, Milk Thistle, Cinnamon, etc.)
Some supplements combine berberine with ingredients that enhance absorption and effectiveness. For example, piperine (from black pepper) slightly boosts bioavailability, while milk thistle supports liver health and metabolism.
Best for: Those looking for added benefits and enhanced effects.
3. Dihydroberberine (DHB) – Most Bioavailable
Dihydroberberine is a more absorbable version of berberine, which can be absorbed over 6 times better than HCl.(5) Once inside the body, it converts into active berberine. It’s also gentler on the digestive system, making it a good option for people who experience upset stomachs with regular berberine supplements. Technically, it’s still berberine but undergoes an extra step—it’s a metabolized version of berberine that forms naturally in the gut. It is created through a synthetic conversion process to mimic how the body breaks down berberine HCl.
Best for: Those with digestive sensitivity or who want maximum effectiveness.
2. Berberine with Cyclodextrin (Berberine Phytosome) – Best for Absorption But Most Processed
This newer formulation improves absorption by pairing berberine with cyclodextrin(3), which helps the body absorb it up to 10 times better than standard Berberine. This means you can get stronger effects with a lower dose. However, it is highly processed to enhance bioavailability, so it is more like a pharmaceutical formulation than a direct plant extract.
Best for: Those who struggle with absorption or want a more potent berberine supplement.
Which Berberine Supplement is the best for you?
- For general health & blood sugar balance: Berberine HCl (most studied, budget-friendly, and natural version).
- For better absorption with a lower dose, Dihydroberberine or Berberine Phytosome.
- If you have digestive issues, take Dihydroberberine
- For added benefits: A blend with bio-enhancers like piperine or milk thistle.
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Best Berberine Brands
The Best Berberine supplements with Cylon Cinnamon
1. Decent Nature
Organic Berberine with Ceylon Cinnamon 2175mg Berberine Supplement
Strength Per Serving: 1800MG
Amount of Servings: 30 (3 capsules)
Ingredients: Organic Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Organic vegetarian pullulan capsule,
3rd Party Tested: YES
2. Nutri
Certified Organic Berberine + Ceylon Cinnamon
Strength Per Serving: 1200MG
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Organic Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Organic pullulan (capsule).
3rd Party Tested: YES
3. NutriFlair
Organic Berberine with Ceylon Cinnamon
Strength Per Serving: 1200MG
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Organic Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Organic vegetarian pullulan capsule.
3rd Party Tested: YES
4. Nutrivein
Premium Berberine HCL Plus Organic Ceylon Cinnamon
Strength Per Serving: 1200MG
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Methylcellulose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: YES
It has clean ingredients and no fillers. It Would be great to have organic berberine as only cinnamon is organic.
5. Vegan Labs Berberine HCL with Organic Ceylon Cinnamon
Strength Per Serving: 1200MG
Amount of Servings: 90 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Berberine HCL, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Vegetable Cellulose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: No Info
This vegan Labs barberine supplement has clean ingredients and no fillers. It Would be great to have organic berberine, as only cinnamon is organic, but it is a very good value for money.
6.Global Healing Center – Organic Berberine (Berberina) with Ceylon Cinnamon & Black Pepper
Strength Per Serving: 1200MG
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Organic Berberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon, Organic Black Pepper, Organic Vegetable Capsule, organic MCT Powder, organic rice hull, ormus supercharged minerals.
3rd Party Tested: Yes
The Best Pure Berberine HCl (Hydrochloride) Supplements
1. Paradise Herbs
Berberine Extract
Strength Per Serving: 1000MG
Amount of Servings: 30 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Berberine, Vegetarian capsule (plant cellulose)
3rd Party Tested: No Info
I like this product because it does not have any filler ingredients. However, it is not very potent compared to others. Ingredients are organic or wildcrafted. However, the brand is not certified organic.
2.BESTVITE Berberine 500mg
Strength Per Serving: 1500 mg
Amount of Servings: 40 (3 capsules)
Ingredients: Berberine, Vegetarian capsule
3rd Party Tested: Yes
3. HMS Nutrition
Berberine HCL from Berberis Aristata Root
Strength Per Serving: 1100MG
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Berberine HCL, Methylcellulose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: Yes
The best Dihydroberberine supplements
1. Refined Root
Dihydroberberine 300mg with Alpha Lipoic Acid 600mg Supplement
Strength Per Serving: 300 mg
Amount of Servings: 60 (2 capsules)
Ingredients: Dihydroberberine, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vegetable Cellulose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: Yes
Dihydroberberine and Alpha Lipoic Acid [ acido alfa lipoico 600mg ] work synergistically to support metabolic health and overall metabolic efficiency.
2. Nutri
Dihydroberberine Supplement With Ceylon Cinnamon
Strength Per Serving: 100 mg
Amount of Servings: 60 (1 capsule)
Ingredients: Dihydroberberine, Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Extract, Vegetable Cellulose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: Yes
It is a great, affordable option for people who struggle with digestion issues. Quite a small dose.
3. NutraBio
Berberine Advanced (Dihydroberberine)
Supplement
Strength Per Serving: 200 mg
Amount of Servings: 60 (1 capsule)
Ingredients: Dihydroberberine, Vegetable Hypromellose Capsule
3rd Party Tested: Yes
A clean and 3rd party tested Dihydroberberine, but it is a bit pricey.
Recommended Berberine Supplement Dosage
- Berberine HCL: 500 mg, 2–3 times a day (1,500 mg total).
- Dihydroberberine: 100–150 mg twice a day.
- Berberine Phytosome: 300–500 mg, twice a day.
Since berberine has a short half-life, it’s best to take multiple doses throughout the day for steady benefits and always read the label or ask your health provider for a dose suited to your needs.
Please Note:
Berberine has many science-proven benefits but should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women, children, and those with liver or kidney disease due to potential toxicity. It can also interact with medications, including blood sugar and blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, and those metabolized by liver enzymes (like certain antidepressants and statins), increasing the risk of side effects. People with digestive sensitivities may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, and those on multiple medications should consult a healthcare provider before use.
If you’re considering berberine, consult a doctor or nutritionist—especially if you’re on medication or have an existing health condition.
Have you found the best berberine supplement that is not listed here? Comment below.
How do we select the best brands and products on Barefoot Basil?
We start by analyzing the ingredient lists on product labels, ensuring there are no unnecessary additives for bulking, shelf life, or artificial flavor.
Next, we review the brand or seller to confirm their legitimacy and reputation within the wellness community. We prioritize products that are third-party tested and hold accredited certifications.
We use fake review detection technology to analyze customer feedback on marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart.
We highlight high-potency formulas made with clean, ethical ingredients. Sustainable, vegan, and cruelty-free products are at the top of our list.
While we can’t test every product ourselves, we do so whenever possible to ensure our recommendations reflect real-world quality and effectiveness.
References
- Zahra Ilyas, S. Perna, S. Al-Thawadi, T. Alalwan, A. Riva, G. Petrangolini, C. Gasparri, V. Infantino, G. Peroni and M. Rondanelli. “The effect of Berberine on weight loss in order to prevent obesity: A systematic review..” Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 127 (2020): 110137 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110137.
- Jie V. Zhao, W. Yeung, Y. Chan, D. Vackova, J. Y. Leung, D. Ip, Jiaxi Zhao, Wai-Kwan Ho, H. Tse and C. Schooling. “Effect of Berberine on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Mechanistic Randomized Controlled Trial.” Nutrients, 13 (2021). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082550.
- Fenyvesi É, Vikmon M, Szente L. Cyclodextrins in Food Technology and Human Nutrition: Benefits and Limitations. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016 Sep 9;56(12):1981-2004. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2013.809513. PMID: 25764389.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25764389/
- Yulan Ye, Xiu-fen Liu, Ning-hua Wu, Yanqi Han, Jiawen Wang, Yuandong Yu and Qingjie Chen. “Efficacy and Safety of Berberine Alone for Several Metabolic Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12 (2021). https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.653887.
- Moon JM, Ratliff KM, Hagele AM, Stecker RA, Mumford PW, Kerksick CM. Absorption Kinetics of Berberine and Dihydroberberine and Their Impact on Glycemia: A Randomized, Controlled, Crossover Pilot Trial. Nutrients. 2021 Dec 28;14(1):124. doi: 10.3390/nu14010124. PMID: 35010998; PMCID: PMC8746601. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35010998/
Silvija Meilunaite PN1-NC, is a certified nutrition coach and a writer in the nutrition and self-improvement field with a passion for exploring science-based knowledge focusing on holistic health and plant-based nutrition.
Featured in the Wellness on Time magazine.
OMG I was looking for a berberine suppliment but they all are full on fillers, you article was so helpfull,Thank you so much!
I am the best advocate of berberine supplements. I had very high cholesterol and taking them for a few months made it so much better. Than oyu for this amazing list, it is always so time consuming to find good quality berberine.