Berberine has been used for thousands of years for its therapeutic effects.  Studies in the last decade have demonstrated promising anti-aging properties through support of healthy blood sugar levels, promotion of cardiovascular health and weight loss.  It appears to work by slowing a metabolic pathway that causes inflammation, and increasing activity of the AMPK enzyme and its downstream targets, including mTOR and SIRT1 (much like the prescription drug metformin).  On average, in studies around the world, stable low blood sugar levels have consistently add five healthy years to the average lifespan.