What is Berberine?
Berberine is a compound found naturally in several plants, including barberry, golden seal, and meadow rue. These plants have a long history of use in traditional medical systems like Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Recently, berberine has gained increased attention in Canada and across the world.
Can You Buy Berberine in Canada?
Yes, you can buy berberine supplements in Canada. Health Canada provides a database of product information for natural health products. Check the database to find out the current status and availability of specific products.
Where to Buy Berberine in Canada
Based on the information from Health Canada, berberine supplements are licensed in Canada. To find where to buy them, you can:
Visit health food stores and pharmacies: Physical stores that sell vitamins and supplements are likely to stock berberine products as well.
Check online retailers: Websites of Canadian health food stores and major online marketplaces may carry licensed berberine supplements.
When buying berberine products online and in stores, ensure the product has a valid Natural Product Number (NPN) indicating it is licensed by Health Canada. If you are trying to decide whether to look for berberine products online or in stores, the best option depends on your preferences for convenience, the need for immediate availability, and the desire for in-person consultation.
Health Benefits of Berberine
Berberine has several health benefits. Research shows it has antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help improve memory and control blood sugar.
Berberine is an ingredient in Femistina Plus, a UTI supplement that helps remove bacteria from bladder wall cells. This works to help reduce recurring urinary tract infections.
Health Canada states that berberine supports healthy cholesterol levels, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes heart health and balanced blood lipid levels.
Choosing the Right Berberine Supplement
When choosing a berberine supplement in Canada, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Intended Use: Read the labels to check for usage directions as licensed berberine products in Canada have specific recommended uses.
Check for a NPN: This indicates that Health Canada has reviewed and licensed the product.
Dosage: Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label or as advised by your healthcare practitioner.
Conclusion
Berberine is a natural compound found in plants like barberry and goldenseal, traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. It is available in Canada, with Health Canada licensing certain supplements. In Canada, you can purchase it through online retailers, health food stores, and pharmacies, ensuring the product has a NPN for safety.
Berberine offers various health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and blood sugar-regulating properties. It also supports cholesterol and heart health and is an active ingredient in Femistina Plus, a supplement for preventing recurrent UTIs.
When selecting a berberine supplement, buyers should check for an NPN, follow dosage recommendations, and verify intended use to ensure compliance with Health Canada regulations.
References
Amazon.ca: Berberine
McGill University: Berberine. Don’t Swallow the Hype. Or the Pill.
Health Canada: Product Information
Health Canada: Product Information
Costco: Webber Naturals Berberine 500 Mg, 180 Vegetarian Capsules