Therapeutic Potential of Berberine in Hypertension: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Hypertension is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide and a leading contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of effective antihypertensive drugs, blood pressure control remains suboptimal in many patients, prompting growing interest in complementary and plant-derived therapies. Berberine, a natural isoquinoline alkaloid isolated from plants such as Coptis chinensis and Berberis species, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now receiving increased scientific attention for its cardiovascular benefits. Experimental and clinical studies suggest that berberine may reduce blood pressure through multiple mechanisms, including improvement of endothelial function, activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), modulation of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This review summarizes and explains the current evidence on berberine and hypertension, with in-text citations and references presented according to APA style.