Berberine

[Lynneypin]

I’ve been reading this may be beneficial for asthmatics. Has anyone tried this please?

[Lysistrata Administrator Community Ambassador]

I haven't, but as with any supplement, I would check with someone medically qualified that it's ok with any medications you take (for asthma or other conditions), and any medical conditions you have. And of course, don't use it to replace your medication (you may already know this but I want to emphasise it for anyone reading).

I just looked quickly online and I can see that there are some studies suggesting berberine might reduce inflammation in the airways, but it doesn't seem to have been studied in humans, healthy or asthmatic. I want to emphasise this because something working in a lab or an animal doesn't mean it will help or be safe for humans with an illness. That's why medications have a lot of clinical studies in humans with and without the conditions being tested for before they can be approved for use in humans to treat specific diseases.

Also worth considering that plant-based/herbal supplements could be asthma triggers - they may not be for everyone, or at all in this case, but it's a possibility to consider. I've looked up some of the plants that trigger me and found studies about how they might reduce airway inflammation -they're definitely not reducing mine!

As with anything, something being natural doesn't automatically mean it's better for you or safe (again you may know this but saying for anyone reading).

[Poobah]

I totally agree with Lysistrata. What little is known, looking at NIH information, research on rats indicate a possible impact on allergic asthma in a very specific inflammation pathway. Beyond that, it's unknown territory.

Looking at reviews on WebMD, people are using it for blood sugar control, cholesterol reduction and weight loss, some success but various side effects reported. It also lists a range of interactions with medications. Many comments stating that there's no recommended doseage, but then that indicates no research. Again, uncharted territory.

I'm wary of natural alternatives after coming a cropper with a simple switch from cow's milk to soya milk. As Lysistrata said, natural doesn't mean safe.