Berberine Vs. Bergamot: What’s the Difference and How Do They Benefit You?
Two powerful natural supplements full of bioactive compounds, berberine and bergamot are often mistaken as one in the same. So, is bergamot the same as berberine? Simply, No.
Here we break down the differences between bergamot and berberine, how each may benefit you, and their most common applications.
Disclaimer:This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not to be taken as medical advice. You should always consult your healthcare provider prior to beginning a new supplement regime. Always speak with your doctor before taking any action regarding your health. Supplements have a wide range of potential effects and it's important to ensure that they are right for you. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. |
What is the Difference Between Berberine and Bergamot?
The origin, action and health benefits between berberine and bergamot differ greatly. In fact, the only similarities are that the two:
- Are plant-derived
- Have anti inflammatory properties
- Contain bioactive compounds that fight oxidative stress and support cardiovascular and metabolic health
Let’s break down the differences:
|
Berberine |
Bergamot |
|
|
Source |
Alkaloid from plants including Berberis |
Citrus Fruit |
|
Action |
Activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase); Your body’s ‘metabolic master switch’ |
Modulates lipid metabolism |
|
Benefits |
Blood sugar regulation, antimicrobial effects |
Cholesterol management, antioxidant properties |
|
Common Uses |
Type 2 diabetes, gut health, weight loss |
Cardiovascular and mental health |
Benefits of Berberine
Berberine is a bioactive compound extracted from plants including Berberis and Oregon Grape. It is chemically classified as an alkaloid and is known for its vibrant yellow colour.
Berberine activates the AMPK enzyme, also known as the body’s metabolic master switch. It helps to regulate energy levels, glucose metabolism and lipid levels.
Evidence suggests that berberine may be beneficial in [4]:
- Blood sugar regulation
- Cholesterol management
- Weight management
- Microbial effectsMaintaining optimal gut health
Benefits of Bergamot
Bergamot is a citrus fruit (citrus bergamia) primarily grown in Southern Italy. Bergamot extract is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids and bioactive compounds which modulate cholesterol metabolism, improve endothelial function and exert antioxidant effects.
Bergamot supplementation may be recommended for [3]:
- Cholesterol and lipid management
- Blood pressure regulation
- Anti inflammatory effects
- Antioxidant properties
- Mental health and wellbeing
Can I Take Berberine and Bergamot Together?
Combining berberine and bergamot may have complimentary health benefits for metabolic regulation and cardiovascular support. The effects of berberine on blood sugar regulation complement bergamot’s cholesterol lowering effects, which may be beneficial to those with a metabolic syndrome.
As berberine and bergamot can have an effect on similar pathways, it is important that you:
- Start with a low dosage and gradually increase under medical guidance
- Monitor your body’s response
- Have any existing medical conditions and/or prescriptions are reviewed by your healthcare provider prior to use
Best Berberine and Bergamot Products for 2025
| BergaMet Advanced BJE100 Organically grown bergamot extract containing polyphenols, amino acids and soluble fibre to enhance its absorption. Aids in cholesterol management and general health and wellbeing. Combined with vitamin C, zinc and olive leaf extract for optimal benefits. Click on the product to read more. |
| Herbs of Gold Bergamot Cholesterol Care A combination of citrus bergamot and globe artichoke for healthy cholesterol management and cardiovascular system support. Adults take 1 tablet twice a day before main meals. Click on the product to read more. |
| Nature’s Sunshine Berberine Capsules Berberine extract from Himalayan barberries to support weight loss, healthy blood sugar levels and heart health. Adults take 1 capsule 3 times per day with food. Click on the product to read more. |
| Herbs of Gold Berberine ImmunoPlex Combines berberine from barberry, Phellodendron and thyme to support liver and digestive health, maintain immune system health and promote general well being. Adults and children over 12 years take 1 tablet twice per day with food. Click on the product to read more. |
Side Effects / Precautions / Interactions
Bergamot is generally considered safe to use, though some individuals may experience [1]:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
People taking cholesterol-lowering medications including statins should consult with their healthcare provider prior to taking bergamot.
People with citrus allergies should avoid bergamot.
Berberine is generally well-tolerated at does of up to 1.5 mg daily, though some individuals may experience [2]:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Low blood-sugar (hypoglycemia) if combined with other glucose lowering medications
Berberine may potentially interact with antibiotics, anticoagulants, and other medications metabolised by the liver.
Summary
Berberine and bergamot are powerful plant extracts that have completely different uses and benefits.
Berberine is an alkaloid mostly used for metabolic health and blood sugar regulation. Bergamot on the other hand, comes from the peel of bergamot citrus fruit and is a potent antioxidant used to promote cardiovascular health and healthy cholesterol levels.
References
[1] WebMD, 2024. Bergamot: Uses, Side Effects, and More. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-142/bergamot
[2] WebMD, 2023. Berberine: Uses, Side Effects, and More. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1126/berberine
[3] Carresi C, Gliozzi M, Musolino V, et al. 2020. The Effect of Natural Antioxidants in the Development of Metabolic Syndrome: Focus on Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7284500/
[4] Ye Y, Liu X, Wu N, Han Y, Wang J, Yu Y, Chen Q. 2021. Efficacy and Safety of Berberine Alone for Several Metabolic Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials. Front Pharmacol. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8107691/
