Berberine, an alkaloid compound found in goldenseal, Oregon grape, barberry and other herbs, can potentially reduce artery plaque, concludes a new study from the Hunan University of Chinese Medicine. Researchers studied the metabolic pathways for atherosclerosis using protein interactions developed from drug research. The database-driven research confirmed that berberine reduces artery inflammation and the thickening of blood vessel walls that can lead to atherosclerosis—the hardening of the arteries. Previous studies have found that berberine reduces blood sugar levels, accelerates weight loss and lowers bad cholesterol levels.