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Berberine-containing Coptis (Huang Lian)
TCM · Antimicrobial · Glucose metabolism
Tier 3 — Trending
What it is
Coptis chinensis is the traditional TCM source of berberine, used for centuries to treat damp-heat conditions and digestive infections. The whole herb contains additional alkaloids beyond berberine alone. A 2024 review found Coptis extracts have broader antimicrobial activity than purified berberine. Same drug interaction cautions as berberine apply.
Efficacy
3/5
Safety
3/5
Research
2/5
Onset
3/5
Cost
3/5
Drug-int.
3/5
Dose
500–1,000 mg/day Coptis extract; lower dose than pure berberine due to additional active alkaloids
Time of day & tips
Take with meals. Same drug interaction cautions as berberine — avoid with metformin and CYP-metabolised drugs without guidance. May cause GI upset at higher doses. Bitter taste is normal.
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