Aurora Blue Blueberry
Also known as: AuroraBlue®, wild blueberry extract, wild Alaskan blueberry complex, bog blueberry extract, oval-leaf blueberry extract, Vaccinium uliginosum extract
Overview
AuroraBlue® is a proprietary extract derived from wild Alaskan blueberries, primarily *Vaccinium uliginosum* (bog blueberry) and *Vaccinium ovalifolium* (oval-leaf blueberry). It is distinguished by its exceptionally high concentration of anthocyanins and other flavonoids, reportedly up to 10 times greater than cultivated blueberries. These bioactive compounds contribute to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. AuroraBlue® is primarily used to support neuronal health, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and healthy glucose metabolism. It is characterized by a high anthocyanin content (4-5% dry weight) and a rich profile of proanthocyanidins and flavonols, imparting a deep purple-blue color. Research includes in vitro studies, animal models, and some human clinical trials on blueberries broadly, suggesting potential benefits, but direct clinical trials on AuroraBlue® are limited.
Benefits
AuroraBlue® and blueberry extracts, in general, offer several potential health benefits. Neuroprotection is a key area, with studies showing that blueberry anthocyanins can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in neuronal cells, protecting against glutamate toxicity and microglial inflammatory stress. Clinical trials with blueberries have demonstrated improvements in memory and mental function, although the effect sizes can vary. Furthermore, the antioxidant flavonoids in AuroraBlue® may support cardiovascular health and healthy blood sugar regulation. Some research suggests antiproliferative effects on cancer cells, indicating potential chemopreventive properties. Older adults and individuals with metabolic syndrome may experience the most significant benefits. Cognitive improvements, such as enhanced memory and executive function, have been observed after weeks to months of daily supplementation in clinical studies.
How it works
AuroraBlue®'s mechanism of action primarily involves its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The anthocyanins and other flavonoids scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. Anti-inflammatory effects are achieved by reducing microglial activation and modulating inflammatory mediators. In the central nervous system, AuroraBlue® may influence signaling pathways involved in neuronal survival and apoptosis, such as reducing caspase-3/7 activity. These actions impact the central nervous system (neuroprotection), cardiovascular system (vascular health), and metabolic system (glucose homeostasis). The bioactive compounds target reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammatory cytokines, and caspase enzymes, potentially influencing neuroinflammation and cell survival.
Side effects
AuroraBlue® and blueberry extracts are generally considered safe, with no major adverse effects consistently reported in clinical studies. Common side effects are rare; however, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Allergic reactions are possible, though uncommon, particularly in individuals with known berry allergies. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when combining AuroraBlue® with anticoagulants due to the potential mild blood-thinning effects of flavonoids. Individuals with allergies to blueberries or related berries should avoid AuroraBlue®. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare providers before using this supplement. Overall, AuroraBlue® presents a favorable safety profile when used as directed.
Dosage
Clinical studies on blueberries often use 100–500 mg anthocyanin equivalents daily. Given that AuroraBlue® contains approximately 4-5% anthocyanins by dry weight, the dosage should be adjusted accordingly. A typical dosage range is 200–500 mg of standardized blueberry extract daily. There is no established upper limit, but doses up to 1 g/day of anthocyanins have been used safely. Daily supplementation with meals may improve absorption. AuroraBlue® is available in capsules, powders, or whole fruit extracts standardized for anthocyanin content. Co-ingestion with fats may enhance the absorption of flavonoids. No specific cofactors are required for its effectiveness.
FAQs
Is AuroraBlue® more potent than regular blueberry extracts?
Yes, AuroraBlue® contains up to 10 times higher bioactive compounds than typical cultivated blueberries, especially anthocyanins, making it a more concentrated source of beneficial compounds.
Can it improve memory?
Blueberry supplementation has shown cognitive benefits in clinical trials, particularly in older adults, with improvements in memory and executive function reported, though individual results can vary.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Yes, blueberry extracts, including AuroraBlue®, are generally considered safe for long-term use, with minimal side effects reported in clinical studies.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Cognitive and metabolic benefits from blueberry supplementation generally appear after several weeks to months of consistent daily use, as observed in clinical trials.
Research Sources
- https://denalibiotech.com/products/aurorablue/ – This source from Denali BioTechnologies highlights AuroraBlue®'s ability to blunt oxidative stress and support healthy inflammatory responses in central nervous system cells, emphasizing its high anthocyanin and antioxidant content. It positions AuroraBlue® as a superior source of blueberry bioactives compared to cultivated varieties. The information is primarily marketing material but references supporting research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7828789/ – This in vitro study demonstrates AuroraBlue®'s ability to blunt oxidative stress and support healthy inflammatory responses in central nervous system cells, highlighting its high anthocyanin and antioxidant content. The study suggests potential neuroprotective benefits, but the findings are limited to in vitro conditions and require further validation in human trials.
- https://www.swansonvitamins.com/p/swanson-ultra-made-certified-organic-blueberries-aurorablue-200-mg-30-veg-caps – This source is a product page for Swanson Ultra Made Certified Organic Blueberries featuring AuroraBlue®. It highlights the antioxidant benefits and organic certification of the product. While providing product information, it does not contain primary research data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10054926/ – This study investigates anthocyanins from blueberries for antiproliferative effects on cancer cells, showing significant inhibition of tumor growth and potential for drug development. The research suggests that blueberry anthocyanins could have a role in cancer prevention and treatment, but further clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1661-3821/3/1/4 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examines multiple clinical trials demonstrating that blueberries improve cognitive function, particularly memory and executive function, through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The review concludes that blueberry supplementation can offer modest but statistically significant cognitive benefits, although the effects may vary depending on the study design and population.
