Aronia Melanocarpa Berry Extract
Also known as: Black chokeberry, aronia berry, *Aronia melanocarpa*
Overview
*Aronia melanocarpa*, commonly known as black chokeberry, is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins. This dietary supplement is primarily utilized for its potential health benefits, particularly in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Recent research has indicated positive effects on cardiovascular health, including improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as cognitive function enhancement. While the body of evidence is moderate, systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) highlight its importance in health promotion. Aronia berries can be consumed fresh, dried, or in extract form, making them versatile for dietary inclusion.
Benefits
{"Inflammation Reduction":"Studies report that aronia berry extract significantly lowers inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), with evidence rated as moderate quality.\n","Cardiovascular Health":"Research shows significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and total cholesterol, especially beneficial for adults over 50 years old.\n","Cognitive Function":"Some evidence indicates a potential boost in psychomotor speed, though findings on broader cognitive effects are inconclusive.\n","Antioxidant Activity":"Aronia extract enhances the activity of antioxidant enzymes, contributing to its health benefits.","Population-Specific Benefits":"Athletes may experience reduced oxidative stress and inflammation post-exercise, while middle-aged individuals can see improved vascular function."}
How it works
Aronia berry extract functions as a potent antioxidant, enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting pro-oxidant enzymes like NADPH oxidase. It has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and boosting anti-inflammatory cytokines. Key components, the anthocyanins, target critical biological pathways that support cardiovascular health and modulate immune responses.
Side effects
{"Common Side Effects":"No common side effects (>5%) reported.\n","Uncommon Side Effects":"Gastrointestinal discomfort has been noted in 1-5% of users.\n","Rare Side Effects":"No significant adverse effects (<1%) recorded.\n","Drug Interactions":"Caution is advised in conjunction with blood thinners due to its antioxidant properties.\n","Contraindications":"No well-documented contraindications exist, but caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers due to limited data."}
Dosage
{"Minimum Effective Dose":"Starting dosage is typically around 150 mg of extract daily, delivering approximately 27 mg of anthocyanins.\n","Optimal Dosage Ranges":"Most studies indicate effective dosages between 150 mg to 300 mg per day.\n","Maximum Safe Dose":"While not well-established, doses up to 300 mg per day have been used without significant adverse effects.\n","Timing Considerations":"Best to take with water before meals.\n","Form-Specific Recommendations":"Available in capsules or juice form.\n","Absorption Factors":"Bioavailability may increase when taken with food."}
FAQs
When to Expect Results?
Benefits may be noticeable within a few weeks of consistent supplementation.
Safety for Long-Term Use?
Generally considered safe, but long-term studies are limited.
Interactions with Medications?
Caution is advised when used with anticoagulants.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39499790/ – A systematic review examining the effects of aronia berry extract on inflammation and antioxidant enzymatic activity found evidence supporting its role in reducing inflammatory markers across 18 studies.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/8/2475 – A randomized controlled trial focused on cognitive and vascular improvements in middle-aged individuals, noting enhancements in psychomotor speed and reductions in blood pressure.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/nutrit/nuae143/7876439?redirectedFrom=fulltext – Meta-analysis revealing significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and cholesterol levels, affirming the cardiovascular benefits of aronia berry supplementation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32794414/ – This study outlines the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of black chokeberry supplementation, highlighting its potential for health improvement.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-black-chokeberry-aronia-melanocarpa-supplementation-on-oxidative-stress-inflammation-and-gut-microbiota-a-systematic-review-of-human-and-animal-studies/C408C94827D3CD63B2DFEE77FFB1D0C3 – A comprehensive review investigating the effects of aronia melanocarpa supplementation on oxidative stress and inflammation, providing insights into its health benefits for humans and animals.