Canadine

PhytochemicalAlkaloid

What is it

Canadine (tetrahydroberberine) is a protoberberine alkaloid found in goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and other Berberidaceae and Papaveraceae plants. It is the tetrahydro reduced form of berberine.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Various pharmacological effects

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical pharmacology data exist, but no clinical applications are established for isolated canadine.

How it works

Canadine has been studied for various pharmacological effects including dopamine D1 and D2 receptor antagonism, anti-inflammatory activity, and weak antimicrobial effects. It is structurally related to berberine but with different receptor activity profiles. In goldenseal preparations, canadine is one of several alkaloids (along with berberine and hydrastine) that contribute to the herb's traditional uses. Pure canadine is not commonly sold as a supplement on its own.

Dosage

No established supplement dose. Goldenseal alkaloid content varies; total alkaloid concentrations are typically 2-5% by weight in dried root.

When and how to take it

Not commonly used as isolated supplement. Goldenseal preparations follow product-specific guidance.

1 commercial form

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Canadine (research/standardization)

Found in goldenseal and related plants.

Not commonly sold as isolated supplement

Safety

Limited safety data for isolated canadine. As an alkaloid, it may have effects on the CNS at higher doses. Goldenseal preparations containing canadine should be used with caution.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation. Avoid in newborns (related alkaloid berberine can displace bilirubin and cause kernicterus). Caution with multiple medications.

Interactions

Theoretical interaction with dopamine-related medications (antipsychotics, levodopa). Goldenseal alkaloids inhibit CYP3A4 and CYP2D6.

Frequently asked questions

Is canadine the same as berberine?⌄

No. Canadine is the tetrahydro reduced form of berberine and has different receptor activities.

Should I take canadine supplements?⌄

Isolated canadine supplements are uncommon and lack clinical evidence. Goldenseal preparations contain canadine along with other alkaloids; use with caution.

References

Canadine on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Canadine (ChEBI:22998) — ChEBI link

Canadine (PubChem CID 34458) — PubChem link

Canadine on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Canadine (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.