A more recent topic of exploration has been berberine’s immune modulation through reductions in inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, IL-1-beta, CRP, and TNF-α) generally in those already with some form of metabolic distress (diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease).[1][2][3][4][5] In another apparent connection between berberine and immune health, three recent studies suggest that berberine (0.3-0.6 g/d) could reduce recurrence of colorectal polyps in those with a history of colorectal cancer, when compared to placebo controls.[6] Though more recent results may be a bit more promising, caution is warranted since there are still some concerns over the quality (and sometimes quantity) of the studies producing the findings.[7]
Does berberine affect immune health and function?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Berberine has been shown to modulate immune health by reducing inflammatory biomarkers in people with metabolic distress and may also lower the recurrence of colorectal polyps in those with a history of colorectal cancer. However, caution is advised due to concerns regarding the quality and quantity of the studies that support these findings.