Metformin is a synthetic drug that was developed based on active compounds found in the plant Galega officinalis, commonly known as goat's rue or French lilac. The plant itself does not contain metformin but rather related compounds like guanidine and galegine.
Metformin comes from a plant called Galega officinalis, known as french lilac or goat's rue. Goat's rue was first used in medieval Europe to treat a variety of conditions, including worms, seizures, and fever.
The fascinating history of metformin. The history of metformin goes back to the Middle Ages in Europe and the use of the plant Galega officinalis (Figure 1), also known as French lilac or goat's rue.
The flowering plant Galega officinalis is no exception, having been used since medieval times as a tea to treat snake bites and plague. In more recent years, it has been used as a key component in metformin, the most prescribed glucose-lowering agent to manage type 2 diabetes.
Metformin and berberine are used to lower blood glucose and increase insulin sensitivity. However, there are several key differences between the two; notably, metformin is an FDA-approved medication, while berberine is a natural supplement. Please keep reading to learn more about berberine vs. metformin.
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, also known as gliptins, are other metformin alternatives. This class includes Januvia (sitagliptin), Tradjenta (linagliptin), and Nesina (alogliptin). These once-daily oral pills lower A1C up to 0.8%, making them less effective than metformin in general.
In particular, they discovered that cinnamon water extract was as safe and effective as metformin, a type 2 diabetes treatment, in helping the body take in sugar. However, despite these promising findings, more clinical studies are needed to better understand cinnamon's effects as a diabetes treatment in humans.
Metformin is present in vegetables and fruits that are part of our regular diet. Potato, one of the most consumed vegetable, contains BRCs (antidiabetic compounds). Per day consumption of potato provides approximately 29.36 mg of BRCs. Fruits and vegetables may play role in diabetes management to some extent.
How long does it take for berberine to lower blood sugar levels? Initial improvements may begin within a few weeks, but significant changes usually require about 2–3 months of consistent use. Individual results vary based on factors including initial blood sugar levels, dosage, and overall lifestyle habits.
Turmeric, mostly at doses of 500–1000 mg per day, might help reduce pain levels and inflammation. Cinnamon, on the other hand, has been shown to help reduce blood sugar levels.
"Metformin, however, can cause lactic acidosis in conditions where lactic acid production is high and the disposal of lactic acid is reduced. In conditions such as circulatory failure, sepsis, and anoxia or hypoxia, metformin use may result in lactic acidosis and should be avoided.
The bloom of the French lilac. This blooming G. officinalis (Goat's rue; French lilac; Italian fitch) is rich in guanidine. The plant's long-recognized hypoglycemic properties led eventually to the synthesis of the biguanide compound metformin.
Cautions: Do not take during pregnancy or if allergic to anethole or plants of the Apiaceae/Carrot, Compositea or Astonaceae (daisies, artichokes, kiwi or ragweed) families. Goat's Rue is related to peanuts; may lower blood sugar; may inhibit platelet aggregation, so do not take within two weeks before surgery.
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The history of metformin provides a good example of how an unusual herb can become a powerful treatment. Metformin originates from the plant Galega officinalis or French lilac, goat's plant or goat's rue.
Some side effects of berberine have been reported in research studies, primarily gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Berberine may interact with medicines.
Other spices like cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, coriander, and cumin are also good at controlling blood sugar levels (3). Berberine – Research has shown that 500mg of Berberine taken 2-3 times daily was able to control blood sugar and lipid metabolism as effectively as metformin (4).
Do Any Foods Contain Berberine? Berberine is not found in any common food sources. As mentioned, it's derived from the roots, stems, and bark of plants such as barberry, Chinese goldthread, goldenseal, tree turmeric, and Oregon grape. Therefore, if you try berberine, it's best to get it from a supplement.
"Some research shows that berberine may be as effective as metformin — an oral medication people use to help control blood sugar," Dr. Hunnes says. "With more data, we may be able to say that berberine helps decrease the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes."
Common alternatives to metformin include glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, sodium-glucose transport 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Less often, thiazolidinediones or sulfonylureas are used as an alternative to metformin.
Metformin is not known to be harmful to the kidneys and other body organs. However, renal impairment, liver disease, and heart failure can increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis with metformin use.
It's also important to balance these healthier carbohydrate sources with lean proteins, non-starchy vegetables, healthy fats, and plenty of water. This diet helps support weight loss efforts while taking metformin, and it is key to meeting your nutritional needs, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Over the Counter and Herbal Alternatives to Metformin That Show Promise
Cinnamon Water: Cinnamon helps the pancreas to release insulin that tends to promote glucose processing in the body. So, soak 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in a glass of water overnight and drink it the next morning. You will surely be able to manage your blood sugar levels.