Effects of berberine and barberry on selected inflammatory biomarkers in adults: A systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials

Abstract

AbstractThe previous meta‐analysis showed an advantageous effect of berberine supplementation on interleukin 6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations; however, it is unknown the dosage that this component influences inflammatory biomarkers. A comprehensive search was done in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science until September 2022 to find randomized controlled trials (RCT) that assessed the effects of berberine/barberry on IL‐6, TNF‐α, and CRP in adults but not trials without a control group. Studies bias was assessed using RoB 2. A random‐effects model was performed to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD). A dose‐dependent effect was calculated. Eighteen clinical trials with 1600 participants were included in the current meta‐analysis. These interventions significantly mitigate IL‐6 levels (−1.18 pg/mL), TNF‐α levels (−3.72 pg/mL), and CRP levels (−1.33 mg/L). In addition, the non‐linear analysis showed a significant lowering effect of berberine/barberry on IL‐6 and TNF‐α levels in doses <1000 mg/day and less than 5 weeks of intervention. There are limitations to our findings, including low‐quality studies and significant heterogeneity. These interventions might be considered adjunct therapy to managing inflammation status. However, more investigation and high‐quality evidence must be conducted to obtain more comprehensive and generalizable results.