Abstract

The incidences of diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases are increasing worldwide. However, the current treatments for diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases are far from being clearly understood. Berberis species from the Barberry family, Berberidaceae, better known as Barberries are widely distributed worldwide. Several extracts and compounds obtained from Berberis species, particularly berberine, revealed effectiveness in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and other metabolic diseases. In the present study, a systematic search in the literature was performed to provide animal and clinical evidences regarding the therapeutic effects of berberine in metabolic diseases and diabetes mellitus. Also, its possible mechanism of action is described, in addition to the reported complication for berberine use and its drug interactions.