Bergamot Orange
Also known as: Bergamot orange, bergamot, Citrus bergamia
Overview
Bergamot orange (*Citrus bergamia*) is a citrus fruit primarily cultivated in Italy, known for its essential oils and juice extract. As a supplement, it is typically available as a standardized polyphenol-rich extract derived from the fruit. It is predominantly utilized for its potential to improve lipid profiles and various metabolic parameters, especially in individuals diagnosed with dyslipidemia or metabolic syndrome. The fruit is characterized by its high concentration of beneficial flavonoids, including neoeriocitrin, naringin, and neohesperidin. Research into bergamot's effects is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its use, though study heterogeneity and the need for larger, long-term trials remain considerations.
Benefits
Bergamot orange extract has demonstrated several evidence-based benefits, primarily in metabolic health. Its most significant effects include substantial reductions in total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG). For instance, one RCT reported a 13.2% decrease in TC, 17.7% in LDL-C, 17.5% in non-HDL-C, and 16.6% in TG after 12 weeks. A systematic review of 12 studies found that 75% reported significant decreases in TC (12.3%-31.3%), LDL-C (7.6%-40.8%), and TG (11.5%-39.5%). Some studies also indicate modest increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Secondary benefits include improvements in insulin sensitivity, with a 12.2% decrease in HOMA-IR, and reductions in inflammation markers like hsCRP (17.9% decrease). These effects are most pronounced and studied in adults with metabolic syndrome, hyperlipidemia, or statin intolerance. The observed lipid reductions are clinically relevant, sometimes comparable to low-dose statins. Benefits can be seen as early as 6 weeks, with continued improvements up to 12 weeks.
How it works
Bergamot polyphenols primarily exert their effects by inhibiting pancreatic cholesterol ester hydrolase (pCEH), which plays a crucial role in cholesterol synthesis and absorption, thereby improving lipid profiles. The flavonoids present in bergamot also contribute to its therapeutic actions through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing properties. The extract interacts with multiple metabolic pathways, influencing both lipid metabolism and inflammatory cascades within the body. While its oral bioavailability is moderate, supplement formulations are often standardized for polyphenol content to ensure consistent efficacy.
Side effects
Bergamot orange extract is generally well-tolerated, with no serious adverse events reported in randomized controlled trials lasting up to 12 weeks. Common side effects are rare, and no significant safety signals have been identified in short-term studies. While no major drug interactions have been definitively documented, caution is advised when combining bergamot with statins until more extensive long-term data become available. Specific contraindications and safety considerations for special populations (e.g., pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, children) are not yet well-defined due to limited research in these groups. Overall, its safety profile appears favorable for short-term use, but comprehensive long-term safety data are still needed.
Dosage
Effective dosages of bergamot polyphenol fraction in clinical trials typically range from 500 mg to 1000 mg daily. Studies suggest that higher doses may lead to faster and more pronounced improvements in lipid parameters. The duration of treatment in most research studies has been between 6 to 12 weeks; therefore, longer-term safety and efficacy beyond this period require further investigation. The optimal timing of dosage relative to meals has not been clearly established in current research. It is important to adhere to product-specific recommendations and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosing advice, especially given the ongoing research into its long-term effects and potential interactions.
FAQs
Is bergamot effective for lowering cholesterol?
Yes, evidence supports that bergamot extract can lead to moderate reductions in LDL-C and triglycerides.
Is bergamot safe to take?
Generally, bergamot is considered safe and well-tolerated in short-term trials, with rare side effects.
Can bergamot replace statins for cholesterol management?
Currently, bergamot is not a replacement for statins but may serve as an adjunct or alternative for statin-intolerant patients.
How quickly do the effects of bergamot appear?
Benefits from bergamot extract are typically observed within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent use.
Does bergamot improve HDL cholesterol levels?
Some studies indicate modest increases in HDL-C, but the evidence for this effect is less consistent than for LDL-C and triglycerides.
Research Sources
- https://www.archivesofmedicalscience.com/Metabolic-and-vascular-effect-of-a-new-standardized-bergamot-phytocomplex-a-three,163368,0,2.html – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 90 adults with metabolic syndrome demonstrated significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL-C, triglycerides, and improvements in insulin sensitivity and inflammation markers after 12 weeks of bergamot supplementation. The study highlights bergamot's potential for comprehensive metabolic improvement.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6497409/ – This prospective, open-label study on 77 hyperlipidemic adults showed that bergamot polyphenol fraction reduced total cholesterol, LDL, and urinary mevalonate, even when co-administered with rosuvastatin. It suggests bergamot's safety and efficacy in improving lipid profiles, potentially synergistically with statins, though its open-label design is a limitation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31670973/ – This systematic review synthesized findings from 12 studies, concluding that 75% of them reported significant lipid improvements with bergamot extract. It noted dose-dependent effects and potential synergy with statins, providing a comprehensive overview of bergamot's efficacy in dyslipidemia, despite heterogeneity across the included studies.
Supplements Containing Bergamot Orange

Cardio Met Pack
Ortho Molecular Products

Heart Solution +
HoltraCeuticals
Illumine
Flower Essence Services

Bergamot BPF
Ortho Molecular Products

Metabolic Age Support Cardio Kit
IN.FORM Nature's Sunshine

Herbals Heart Health
Garden of Life

Advanced Cholesterol Solutions
Dr. Sinatra

CardioxLDL
Nature's Sunshine

Citrus Bergamot 1000 mg
BioSchwartz

Bergamot
NHC Natural Healthy Concepts

CALM Sleep Capsules
Natural Vitality