EXCLUSIVE: Nerilee Gregory spent $144 on a popular berberine supplement after seeing it touted as "nature's Ozempic" on social media.

Instead of helping her lose weight, it landed her in hospital.

Now the 52-year-old from Sydney is desperately warning other Australians to do their research before buying into online claims about berberine and other supplements.

"I was the sickest I've ever been in my life," she told 9news.com.au.

"I thought I was going to die."

What is berberine?

Berberine is a compound found in some plants, some research suggests berberine could have some health benefits.

When taken as a supplement it may lower blood sugar, increase weight loss, and improve heart health.

Macquarie University School of Natural Sciences Professor Nial Wheate said that berberine

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