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Blood Orange Fruit Extract

Also known as: Blood Orange Fruit Extract, Moro Blood Orange Extract, Moro cultivar, Citrus sinensis

Overview

Blood Orange Fruit Extract is derived from the fruit of the blood orange, specifically the 'Moro' cultivar, which is known for its distinctive red pigmentation due to a high concentration of anthocyanins, particularly cyanidin 3-glucoside. This plant-derived dietary supplement is primarily utilized for its potential benefits in weight management, improvement of lipid profiles, and enhancement of skin health. Its key characteristics include potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, along with the ability to modulate metabolic pathways. Research on blood orange extract is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses supporting its efficacy. The extract is typically consumed orally as a supplement, leveraging its rich flavonoid and anthocyanin content to exert its beneficial effects within the body.

Benefits

Blood Orange Fruit Extract offers several evidence-based benefits. For weight management, a 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that Moro blood orange extract significantly reduced body mass by 4.2% (versus 2.2% in placebo), BMI, waist and hip circumference, fat mass, and visceral/subcutaneous fat distribution in overweight adults. This suggests a modest but statistically significant effect on body composition. Regarding lipid profile, a systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that daily intake of orange juice (containing similar flavonoids) over 500 ml may reduce LDL cholesterol levels, implying potential cardiovascular benefits from the extract's flavonoid content. For skin health, a meta-analysis of three studies showed that fruit extracts, including red orange extract, significantly reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby improving skin hydration and barrier function over 8-12 weeks. The evidence quality for these benefits ranges from well-conducted RCTs to meta-analyses, providing a solid foundation for its reported effects.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Blood Orange Fruit Extract stems from its rich content of anthocyanins, particularly cyanidin 3-glucoside. These compounds exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which are crucial for cellular protection and reducing systemic inflammation. The extract's components modulate metabolic pathways involved in fat accumulation and lipid metabolism, potentially by influencing adipogenesis and lipolysis. They may also improve endothelial function and lipid profiles through various flavonoid-mediated pathways. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties contribute to improved skin barrier integrity by mitigating oxidative stress, which can damage skin cells and compromise barrier function. The bioavailability of these active compounds is influenced by the extract's standardization and preparation methods.

Side effects

Moro blood orange extract is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in randomized controlled trials lasting up to 6 months. Studies have shown no negative impact on liver toxicity markers or other safety parameters. Common side effects are not reported at an incidence greater than 5%. There are no documented significant drug interactions or contraindications in the reviewed literature. However, caution is advised for individuals with known citrus allergies, as the extract is derived from citrus fruit. Additionally, while not well-studied, individuals on medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes should exercise caution, as some plant extracts can interfere with these pathways. Overall, the safety profile appears favorable, but long-term safety data beyond 6 months are limited.

Dosage

The effective dosage for Blood Orange Fruit Extract, particularly for weight management, was observed in a randomized controlled trial where a standardized extract was administered daily for 6 months. While the exact milligram dosage was not specified in the abstract, it is crucial that the extract is standardized for its active compounds, primarily anthocyanins like cyanidin 3-glucoside, to ensure efficacy. Optimal dosing likely depends on the specific anthocyanin content of the product. Timing of administration with meals may enhance absorption due to considerations for flavonoid bioavailability. There is currently no established maximum safe dose, and long-term safety data beyond 6 months are limited, warranting further research to define long-term safety thresholds and optimal dosing strategies for various applications.

FAQs

Is blood orange extract effective for weight loss?

Yes, evidence from a randomized controlled trial supports modest but statistically significant reductions in body weight, BMI, and fat distribution when the extract is used in conjunction with diet and exercise.

Can it improve cholesterol?

While direct evidence for the extract is limited, intake of orange juice containing similar flavonoids has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol, suggesting potential benefits for lipid profiles from the extract.

Is it safe long-term?

Current data from studies up to 6 months show a favorable safety profile with no significant adverse effects. However, longer-term safety data beyond this period are currently limited.

Does it improve skin hydration?

Yes, a meta-analysis indicates that fruit extracts, including red orange extract, can significantly improve skin barrier function and hydration by reducing transepidermal water loss.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35276783/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of Moro blood orange extract on overweight adults over 6 months. It found that the extract significantly reduced body mass, BMI, waist and hip circumference, and fat mass compared to placebo, with all safety markers remaining normal throughout the study.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37008412/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the impact of orange juice intake on lipid profiles. It concluded that daily consumption of over 500 ml of orange juice could significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels, suggesting potential cardiovascular benefits from the flavonoids present in Citrus sinensis.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1232229/full – This meta-analysis, encompassing three studies with 186 participants, evaluated the effects of fruit extracts, including red orange extract, on skin aging. It demonstrated that these extracts significantly reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL), indicating improved skin hydration and barrier function over an 8-12 week period.