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blood orange extract

Also known as: Blood orange extract, Moro blood orange extract, Red orange extract, Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck, Citrus sinensis

Overview

Blood orange extract is derived from the fruit of *Citrus sinensis*, specifically the 'Moro' cultivar, which is characterized by its distinctive red pigmentation due to a high concentration of anthocyanins, particularly cyanidin 3-glucoside. It is utilized as a dietary supplement primarily for its potential benefits in weight management, antioxidant support, and skin health. The extract is rich in various flavonoids and anthocyanins, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and metabolic modulating properties. Research, including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, suggests its efficacy in reducing body mass and improving skin hydration. While the evidence quality is moderate, it supports the use of blood orange extract as a natural ingredient for these health applications.

Benefits

Blood orange extract offers several evidence-based benefits. A 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that Moro blood orange standardized extract significantly reduced body mass by 4.2% (compared to 2.2% in placebo, p=0.015), BMI (p=0.019), waist and hip circumferences, and fat mass in overweight adults. This indicates a clinically meaningful fat reduction. For skin health, a meta-analysis of three studies found that fruit extracts, including red orange extract, significantly reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby improving skin hydration (SMD = −6.54; 95% CI: −12.15 to −0.92; p=0.02). Preliminary evidence also suggests potential cardiometabolic benefits, such as modulating gut microbiota and improving biomarkers in overweight women with insulin resistance, though more research is needed to confirm these effects. The observed benefits for weight loss and skin hydration are statistically significant and clinically relevant, typically appearing within 8 to 24 weeks of consistent use.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for blood orange extract stems from its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly anthocyanins (like cyanidin 3-glucoside) and various flavonoids. These compounds exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects within the body. They modulate metabolic pathways involved in fat accumulation by influencing adipocyte metabolism and reducing inflammation, which can lead to improved lipid profiles. For skin benefits, the antioxidant activity helps to reduce oxidative damage, thereby improving the integrity of the skin barrier and reducing transepidermal water loss, leading to enhanced hydration. The absorption of anthocyanins is moderate, with their bioavailability influenced by gut microbiota and subsequent metabolism.

Side effects

Moro blood orange extract has demonstrated a favorable safety profile in clinical studies. A 6-month randomized controlled trial reported that the extract was well tolerated, with no significant adverse effects or liver toxicity markers observed outside normal ranges. No serious side effects have been documented in the available literature, and common side effects are rare or not reported. Furthermore, there are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been identified. While safety data are somewhat limited, they are consistent with the general safety profile of other citrus-derived supplements. Individuals with known allergies to citrus fruits should exercise caution. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

Dosage

The effective dosage of standardized Moro blood orange extract used in key clinical trials for weight management typically ranges from 500 mg to 1 gram per day, standardized for its anthocyanin content. This dosage was administered daily for a period of 6 months in the primary randomized controlled trial. For skin benefits, optimal dosing in meta-analyzed studies involved fruit extract supplementation for 8 to 12 weeks. While there is no established maximum safe dose, the dosages used in clinical studies have been well tolerated. Timing of supplementation with meals may potentially improve absorption. Co-administration with other antioxidants could offer synergistic effects. It is important to follow the specific dosage recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the supplement or as advised by a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Is blood orange extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence from studies up to 6 months shows good safety, with no reported liver toxicity or serious adverse events, suggesting it is safe for medium-term use.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Weight loss benefits were observed after 6 months of consistent use, while improvements in skin hydration were noted within 8–12 weeks.

Does it work alone or with diet/exercise?

The primary weight loss study combined extract use with diet and exercise, suggesting that it works synergistically with lifestyle interventions for optimal results.

Is it effective for everyone?

Benefits have been demonstrated in overweight but otherwise healthy adults. Its efficacy in other populations or for different health conditions requires further research.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8838101/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in overweight adults demonstrated that Moro blood orange extract significantly reduced body mass (4.2% vs. 2.2% in placebo), BMI, waist/hip circumference, and fat mass over 6 months. The study reported no safety concerns, highlighting the extract's potential for weight management.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1232229/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis, including studies on fruit extracts like red orange extract, found a significant improvement in skin hydration and reduction in transepidermal water loss. The findings support the use of fruit extracts for skin barrier function, though heterogeneity across studies was noted.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Effectiveness-of-%E2%80%9CMoro%E2%80%9D-Blood-Orange-Citrus-Osbeck-Briskey-Malfa/7d3fe25c271e58b349959009a03b6b74a433ae3c – This paper details the effectiveness of 'Moro' Blood Orange extract in reducing body mass, BMI, and fat distribution in overweight adults. It reinforces the findings of the RCT, emphasizing the clinical relevance of the observed reductions in body composition parameters.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235672/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, while focused on *Citrus aurantium*, provides broader context on the safety and efficacy of citrus extracts in weight management and metabolic health. It supports the plausibility of similar benefits from blood orange extract due to shared bioactive compounds.