Berberine is an alkaloid compound that can be extracted from several different plants, including a group of shrubs called Berberis as well as other plants such as Goldenseal, European Barberry and Oregon Grape. It is usually found in the roots, rhizomes, stems and bark. Berberine has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. There have been hundreds of studies, and research shows that it is effective in lowering high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. In addition, it helps to promote weight loss by improving the fat regulating hormones and inhibiting the growth of fat cells.