Citrus Naringin Extract
Also known as: Citrus Naringin Extract, Naringin, flavanone glycoside, bioflavonoid, phytochemical
Overview
Naringin is a prominent flavanone glycoside found abundantly in citrus fruits, particularly grapefruits and oranges. It is frequently extracted and utilized as Citrus Naringin Extract in dietary supplements due to its diverse biological activities. Research indicates Naringin possesses significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, lipid-lowering, and potential anticancer properties. While there is extensive preclinical data supporting these effects, the evidence from human clinical trials is still emerging and limited. The current body of research, including systematic reviews of animal and in vitro studies, suggests promising therapeutic potential. However, more high-quality, well-designed human randomized controlled trials are crucial to definitively confirm its efficacy, establish optimal dosages, and thoroughly assess its safety profile for human consumption.
Benefits
Naringin exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. It demonstrates significant hepatoprotective effects, with a 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies showing marked improvement in liver function markers and protection against liver injury and oxidative stress in various animal models. This suggests strong potential for liver health support. Furthermore, Naringin shows considerable anticancer potential; a 2021 systematic review of 87 studies highlighted its ability to inhibit tumor growth and progression through multiple molecular pathways, including inducing apoptosis and reducing inflammation. The review also noted enhanced anticancer effects when Naringin forms metal complexes. While human data are limited, a 2022 review indicated that Naringin-containing flavonoid extracts contribute to reduced blood lipid levels, inflammation markers, and oxidative stress in clinical trials, suggesting benefits for metabolic health. Additionally, preclinical studies have observed antibacterial properties and protective effects on the intestinal barrier.
How it works
Naringin exerts its biological effects by modulating multiple intricate biological pathways within the body. Its potent antioxidant activity stems from its ability to directly scavenge free radicals and upregulate the body's endogenous antioxidant enzymes, thereby reducing oxidative stress. The anti-inflammatory effects are primarily mediated through the inhibition of key inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB, and the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. For hepatoprotection, Naringin modulates the SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway and improves mitochondrial function. Its anticancer mechanisms are multifaceted, targeting cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, modulating autophagy, inhibiting angiogenesis, and suppressing metastasis. Furthermore, Naringin's interaction with the gut microbiota may play a significant role in influencing its bioavailability and overall systemic effects.
Side effects
Naringin is generally considered safe at typical dietary and supplemental doses, based on available animal and limited human data. Adverse effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. A critical consideration for Naringin is its potential for drug interactions, particularly with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Naringin is known to inhibit CYP3A4, an enzyme crucial for the metabolism of many drugs, which could lead to increased drug concentrations and potential adverse effects. Therefore, caution is advised when combining Naringin with other medications, and medical consultation is highly recommended. Data regarding contraindications and safety in special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with pre-existing liver disease, are currently insufficient. Until more comprehensive human data are available, individuals with liver conditions or those on multiple medications should exercise caution and seek professional medical advice before supplementation.
Dosage
Currently, there is no standardized or clinically established dosing guideline for Naringin in humans, as most efficacy data come from preclinical studies using variable doses. Human pharmacokinetic studies are still needed to precisely define the minimum effective dose, optimal therapeutic range, and maximum safe dose. The bioavailability of Naringin is known to be limited, which suggests that the formulation and delivery system of supplements could significantly impact its absorption and effectiveness. Therefore, while some supplements may suggest dosages, these are often extrapolated from animal studies or general flavonoid research rather than robust human clinical trials. Until more definitive human data are available, users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate and safe dosage, especially given its potential for drug interactions.
FAQs
Is naringin effective for liver health?
Preclinical evidence strongly supports Naringin's hepatoprotective effects, showing improvements in liver function and protection against injury. However, human randomized controlled trials are still needed to confirm these benefits clinically.
Can naringin prevent or treat cancer?
Naringin shows significant promise in preclinical models, demonstrating multi-targeted mechanisms against cancer growth and progression. Despite strong in vitro and animal data, clinical evidence in humans is currently lacking.
Are there risks with drug interactions?
Yes, Naringin can inhibit CYP3A4, an enzyme metabolizing many drugs, potentially increasing drug levels. Medical consultation is highly recommended before combining Naringin with any medications to avoid adverse interactions.
Research Sources
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/a-2595-7650.pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies (Fayaz M et al., 2025) found statistically significant hepatoprotective effects of Naringin in various animal models. It highlighted Naringin's ability to improve liver function markers and protect against injury, while emphasizing the critical need for human randomized controlled trials to validate these findings.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8039459/ – This systematic review (Khan et al., 2021) analyzed 87 studies on Naringin's anticancer effects, demonstrating its significant modulation of cancer-related pathways. The review underscored Naringin's multi-targeted mechanisms against tumor growth and progression, suggesting its potential for clinical application pending further human trials.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.958329/full – This narrative review (Li et al., 2022) summarized the lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects of total flavonoids, including Naringin, in both human and animal studies. It noted the variability in Naringin's bioavailability and called for better-designed clinical trials to establish optimal dosing and confirm efficacy in humans.
