Pharmacology
A variety of pharmacological effects of Coptis chinensis extracts or its chemical components have been reported, but the relevance of these in vitro and animals studies to human health are unknown. For example, a 1996 in vitro study found Coptis chinensis extracts to be effective against the gastrointestinal parasite Blastocystis hominis. A study in rats suggested Coptis and berberine (the primary alkaloid in Coptis) are potential agents for preventing intestinal injury. Berberine may also have anti-atherosclerosis effects. Berberine and basic extracts of Coptis chinensis also have demonstrated positive effects in an animal model of neurodegeneration. Animal studies suggest Coptis chinensis rhizomes may help with the pain of irritable bowel syndrome.
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