Berberine has been shown to lower cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol.

In one experimental study, researchers fed various doses of berberine to rats made to have high cholesterol levels.

The berberine lowered total cholesterol by 29 to 33 percent and LDL cholesterol between 31 and 41 percent. It also reduced cholesterol absorption 40 to 51 percent.

Another study found that combining berberine with plant stanols could synergistically lower total cholesterol by 41 percent and LDL cholesterol 59 percent.

Triglycerides were lowered by 31 percent.

Beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol supplement used for treating prostate enlargement, has also been shown to lower cholesterol.

Combining it with berberine would synergistically improve the effectiveness.