Quick Summary

Bergamot Extract, derived from the Citrus bergamia fruit, contains polyphenols that have been studied primarily for cardiometabolic and circulatory health effects. Current evidence is research-pending with limited human clinical data available. At present, there are no authorized health claims for bergamot extract in the European Union.

What Is It?

Bergamot Extract is a dietary supplement obtained from the juice or peel of the bergamot citrus fruit (Citrus bergamia), standardized for its polyphenol content. It is used mainly for its proposed effects on cardiovascular and metabolic health parameters, although these effects remain under investigation.

How It May Work in the Body

Bergamot Extract may support cardiometabolic health through its polyphenolic compounds, which are hypothesized to influence lipid metabolism and vascular function. Proposed mechanisms include:

  • Antioxidant activity of polyphenols that may reduce oxidative stress
  • Modulation of lipid metabolism potentially affecting cholesterol levels
  • Improvement of endothelial function, which could influence vascular health

It is important to note that these mechanisms are mainly based on biochemical and animal studies. Human clinical evidence confirming these mechanisms remains insufficient at this time.

Common Supplement Forms

Bergamot Extract is typically available as:

  • Standardized polyphenol extracts derived from bergamot fruit
  • Capsules containing the extract
  • Tablets commonly standardized for polyphenol content

Typical Dosage and How It Is Used

There is currently no established recommended daily intake for bergamot extract. Dosages used in clinical research vary and have not been clearly standardized.

Because of the limited evidence, appropriate dosage and long-term safety have not been firmly established. Consumers should approach dosing cautiously and seek professional advice if considering supplementation.

Note: There is no official recommended daily allowance (RDA) or adequate intake (AI) for bergamot extract.

Natural Sources

  • Bergamot fruit (Citrus bergamia), including both its peel and juice

Absorption and Bioavailability

Specific data on the absorption and bioavailability of bergamot polyphenols are lacking. Differences between supplement forms or factors that might enhance or inhibit absorption have not been established through rigorous research.

Potential Benefits: What Does the Evidence Say?

Cardiometabolic and Circulatory Health

Bergamot extract has attracted interest for its potential to support cardiometabolic parameters, including lipid profiles and vascular function. However, current human clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm these potential benefits.

Limited published clinical trial data with insufficient quality and quantity make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about efficacy in these areas.

Side Effects and Safety

There is limited safety information available on bergamot extract. No common side effects or contraindications have been well documented in the literature.

Toxicity data and effects of overuse are not available, underscoring the need for caution.

Drug and Supplement Interactions

Currently, there are no well-established data on interactions between bergamot extract and drugs or other supplements. Due to limited information, caution is advisable, especially for individuals on medication.

Who Should Be Careful?

People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have medical conditions, use medications, or are planning surgery should consult healthcare professionals before using bergamot extract supplements due to the lack of comprehensive safety data.

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Special Populations

Safety of bergamot extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Its use in children, elderly individuals, or those with chronic illnesses has not been sufficiently studied.

Quality, Standardization and What to Look For

When selecting bergamot extract supplements, look for those standardized to polyphenol content, as this is the primary active compound of interest. Because of the limited regulation of dietary supplements, choosing products from reputable manufacturers that provide third-party testing or certification may enhance product quality assurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does bergamot extract lower cholesterol? Early research has investigated lipid modulation, but evidence in humans is limited and inconclusive.
  • Is bergamot extract safe? Safety data are limited; no common side effects have been clearly established, but clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm safety.
  • Can I get bergamot polyphenols from diet alone? Yes, bergamot polyphenols are naturally found in the bergamot fruit’s peel and juice.
  • Are there approved health claims for bergamot extract? No EU-authorized health claims are currently available for bergamot extract.

Evidence Limitations

  • No systematic reviews or meta-analyses conclusively addressing efficacy or safety
  • Lack of detailed human clinical evidence on appropriate dosage, benefits, and safety profiles
  • Limited information from official agencies such as NIH Office of Dietary Supplements or EFSA

References

Disclaimer

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Bergamot extract supplements have not been established to treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have medical conditions, use medications, or are considering surgery should consult a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplement.

Last Reviewed

June 2024