Home Ingredients CitrOlive® (Olive Leaf + Citrus Flavonoid Cardio Complex — Frutarom/IFF)
CardiovascularAntioxidant

CitrOlive® (Olive Leaf + Citrus Flavonoid Cardio Complex — Frutarom/IFF)

Evidence Level
Moderate
3 Clinical Trials
8 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

CitrOlive® is Frutarom Health's (now IFF Health) patented Mediterranean ingredient combining citrus fruit flavonoids and olive (Olea europaea) leaf polyphenol extracts — backed by research on key phytochemicals, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Water-soluble. Designed to support cardiovascular health and protect against arterial hardening — the underlying cause of most heart problems. A randomized double-blind controlled trial in cardiovascular-risk subjects found 500 mg/day CitrOlive significantly reduced oxidized LDL (93.8 → 62.8 U/L) and increased paraoxonase activity (PON1: 64.5 → 78.7 U/L). Reflects Frutarom's Mediterranean ingredients line philosophy.

Studied Dose 500 mg/day (2 capsules/day).
Active Compound Patented combination extract of citrus fruit flavonoids and olive leaf (Olea europaea) polyphenols; water-soluble; standardized for polyphenols and flavonoids.

Benefits

Significant oxidized LDL reduction (33%)

In treatment-naïve subjects with cardiovascular risk factors, CitrOlive 500 mg/day decreased oxidized LDL significantly (93.8 → 62.8 U/L, p<0.05) while it increased in controls. Ox-LDL is a key driver of atherosclerosis — addressing it directly supports vascular health.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Increased paraoxonase activity (PON1)

Documented a significant increase in serum paraoxonase activity (PON1: 64.5 → 78.7 U/L, p<0.05) in the CitrOlive group, while controls remained unchanged. PON1 is an HDL-associated enzyme protecting LDL from oxidation — increased PON1 activity reduces atherogenic potential. Mechanism complements the direct ox-LDL reduction.

Supported by Trial 1

Triglyceride and oxidized LDL drop

500 mg/day for 90 days produced significant drops in both triglycerides and oxidized LDL — prominent risk factors for cardiovascular disorders. Multi-parameter cardiovascular improvement supports comprehensive cardiovascular health applications.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 1

Improved ox-LDL/LDL-C ratio

Documented similar significant findings in the ox-LDL/LDL-C ratio — addressing not just absolute oxidized LDL but the proportion of LDL that is oxidatively modified. Ratio is a more refined marker of atherosclerotic risk than either parameter alone. Particularly relevant for those with normal absolute LDL but elevated cardiovascular risk.

Supported by Trial 1

Mediterranean diet phytonutrient delivery

CitrOlive delivers Mediterranean diet phytonutrients in concentrated form — supporting cardiovascular health applications. The Mediterranean diet has long been considered the gold standard for healthy nutrition and has been clinically associated with reduced cardiovascular problems for decades. Concentrated form supports dosing precision.

Supported by Trial 3, Trial 2

Strong antioxidant + anti-inflammatory activity

CitrOlive's cardiovascular benefits result from strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The phytochemicals, polyphenols, and flavonoids in the olive + citrus combination work synergistically to address oxidative stress and inflammation — two key drivers of atherosclerosis. Multi-mechanism approach vs single-pathway interventions.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Treatment-naïve population validation

Studied in treatment-naïve subjects with cardiovascular risk factors — those not already on statins or other cardiovascular medications. Treatment-naïve population strengthens clinical evidence by removing confounders from concurrent medications. Supports CitrOlive as first-line natural intervention for moderate cardiovascular risk.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Mediterranean ingredients line — water-soluble

Water-soluble nature supports formulation in functional food, beverages, dietary supplements, and nutrition bars. Important addition to Frutarom's Mediterranean ingredients line alongside Portusana (purslane). Reflects mission to explore Mediterranean Diet benefits via pure, safe ingredients backed by scientific research.

Supported by Trial 3

Mechanism of action

1

LDL oxidation prevention

CitrOlive's polyphenols and flavonoids prevent LDL oxidation — the critical step in atherosclerosis development. Oxidized LDL is taken up by macrophages forming foam cells, the initial lesion of atherosclerosis. Preventing LDL oxidation addresses atherosclerosis at an earlier mechanistic step than statins (which reduce LDL production).

2

Paraoxonase (PON1) activity enhancement

PON1 is an HDL-associated enzyme that hydrolyzes oxidized phospholipids and protects LDL from oxidation. Increased PON1 activity is associated with reduced atherosclerosis risk. CitrOlive significantly increases PON1 — providing complementary mechanism to direct antioxidant scavenging.

3

Citrus flavonoid bioactivity

Citrus flavonoids (hesperidin, naringin, hesperetin, naringenin) have documented cardiovascular effects including vascular endothelial function support, anti-inflammatory activity, and lipid metabolism modulation. Citrus bioflavonoids are known to provide a protective effect on the cardiovascular system.

4

Olive leaf polyphenol activity

Olive leaf polyphenols (oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol) have well-characterized cardiovascular benefits — supporting healthy blood pressure, vascular function, and lipid profile. Same compound class supports the cardiovascular benefits of olive oil and Mediterranean diet. Concentrated extract delivers significant polyphenols vs dietary intake.

5

Anti-inflammatory pathway support

Chronic low-grade inflammation drives atherosclerosis alongside oxidation. CitrOlive's anti-inflammatory activity addresses the inflammatory component of cardiovascular disease. Combined antioxidant + anti-inflammatory mechanisms provide comprehensive cardiovascular support.

Clinical trials

1
CitrOlive Treatment-Naïve Cardiovascular Risk Trial

Published 3-month randomized double-blind controlled trial in 23 treatment-naïve subjects with cardiovascular risk factors (TC >200 mg/dL, LDL-C >130 mg/dL). Intervention: CitrOlive 500 mg/day (2 capsules) vs matched placebo. Primary outcomes: oxidized LDL, lipid metabolism parameters, plasma atherogenic capacity, paraoxonase activity (PON1). PMID 33920476.

23 treatment-naïve subjects with cardiovascular risk factors (mean age 41.9, 69.6% males). 3-month intervention.

Oxidized LDL decreased significantly: 93.8 → 62.8 U/L (p<0.05) in intervention vs increase in controls. Paraoxonase activity (PON1) increased significantly: 64.5 → 78.7 U/L (p<0.05) in intervention vs unchanged controls. Similar significant findings in ox-LDL/LDL-C ratio. Reduction in atherogenic LDL oxidation in treatment-naïve moderate-risk atherosclerosis subjects vs controls.

2
CitrOlive Murcia University Pivotal Trial

Foundational double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted at Murcia University (UCAM), Spain — the trial supporting CitrOlive's commercial launch. Subjects received 500 mg/day CitrOlive or matching placebo for 90 days. Primary outcomes: triglycerides and oxidized LDL — both prominent cardiovascular risk markers.

Subjects with cardiovascular risk factors. 90-day intervention with 500 mg/day CitrOlive or placebo.

Significant drop in triglycerides and oxidized LDL levels vs placebo. Both are prominent risk factors for cardiovascular disorders. Established CitrOlive's cardiovascular health positioning. Foundation for the subsequent published treatment-naïve study confirming ox-LDL reduction mechanism. Reflects the Mediterranean diet's clinical legacy for cardiovascular health.

3
CitrOlive Acute Toxicity Safety Studies

Acute toxicity studies documenting safety of CitrOlive supplementation even at high doses. Foundational regulatory and safety package for the patented ingredient. Supporting Frutarom's positioning of pure, safe Mediterranean ingredients.

Not applicable — acute toxicity safety studies.

Acute toxicity studies demonstrated safety of CitrOlive even when ingested in high doses. Foundation for clinical applications at 500 mg/day standard dose plus supports food and beverage applications where dose control may vary. Reinforces Mediterranean ingredients line safety profile.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Excellent safety profile — acute toxicity studies confirm safety at high doses.
Mild GI effects rare.
Both olive leaf and citrus extracts have long traditional dietary use in Mediterranean cuisines.
Water-soluble supports broad formulation flexibility.
Long-term safety supported by traditional Mediterranean dietary consumption.
Citrus allergy — extremely rare but possible; verify allergen status for sensitive individuals.
Pregnancy and lactation: dietary olive/citrus is safe; supplemental doses consult clinician.

Important Drug interactions

Antihypertensive medications — olive leaf may have mild BP-lowering effects; monitor BP.
Statins and cholesterol medications — CitrOlive addresses ox-LDL via different mechanism than statins; generally complementary; consult prescriber.
Anticoagulants — possible mild antiplatelet effects from flavonoids; consult prescriber.
Diabetes medications — possible mild glucose-modulating effects.
CYP3A4-metabolized medications — citrus components may have minimal interaction; less concern than grapefruit.
Pregnancy and lactation: consult clinician.
Other antioxidant supplements — generally complementary.

More Cardiovascular Ingredients

Cardiovascular
Niacin
Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential water-soluble vitamin central to energy metabolism, DN…
Cardiovascular
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an…
Cardiovascular
Potassium
Potassium is the most abundant intracellular cation in the human body and an essential min…
Cardiovascular
Pycnogenol® (French Maritime Pine Bark)
Pycnogenol® (Horphag Research) is a standardized extract from the bark of French maritime…

Explore Other Ingredients

Antioxidant
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root is a traditional herb used to support liver and digestive health and as a g…
Antioxidant
NAC (N-Acetylcysteine)
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a supplemental form of the amino acid cysteine, best known for…
Cognitive
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb from Ayurvedic tradition, widely u…

Frequently asked questions about CitrOlive® (Olive Leaf + Citrus Flavonoid Cardio Complex — Frutarom/IFF)

What is CitrOlive?

CitrOlive® is Frutarom Health's (now IFF Health) patented Mediterranean ingredient combining citrus fruit flavonoids and olive (Olea europaea) leaf polyphenol extracts — backed by research on key phytochemicals, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Water-soluble.

What is CitrOlive used for?

CitrOlive is researched primarily for Cardiovascular and Antioxidant. In treatment-naïve subjects with cardiovascular risk factors, CitrOlive 500 mg/day decreased oxidized LDL significantly (93.8 → 62.8 U/L, p<0.05) while it increased in controls.

What is the recommended dosage of CitrOlive?

The clinically studied dose is 500 mg/day (2 capsules/day). Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is CitrOlive safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, CitrOlive is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Excellent safety profile — acute toxicity studies confirm safety at high doses. Mild GI effects rare. It may also interact with some medications. CitrOlive is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does CitrOlive interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: Antihypertensive medications — olive leaf may have mild BP-lowering effects; monitor BP. Statins and cholesterol medications — CitrOlive addresses ox-LDL via different mechanism than statins; generally complementary; consult prescriber. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for CitrOlive?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for CitrOlive as Moderate (3 out of 5). It is backed by 3 clinical trials and 3 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(3 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Victoria-Montesinos D, Abellán Ruiz MS, Luque Rubia AJ, Guillén Martínez D, Pérez-Piñero S, Sánchez Macarro M, García-Muñoz AM, Cánovas García F, Castillo Sánchez J, López-Román FJ Effectiveness of Consumption of a Combination of Citrus Fruit Flavonoids and Olive Leaf Polyphenols to Reduce Oxidation of Low-Density Lipoprotein in Treatment-Naïve Cardiovascular Risk Subjects: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Study Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10(4):589. doi: 10.3390/antiox10040589.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized double-blind RCT of CitrOlive™ (citrus flavonoid + olive leaf polyphenol combination, 500 mg/day, 90 days) in cardiovascular-risk subjects showing significant ox-LDL reduction (93.8→62.8 U/L, p<0.05) and significant PON1 paraoxonase activity increase (64.5→78.7 U/L, p<0.05) vs controls. Directly supports Oxidized LDL reduction (33%) and Increased paraoxonase activity (PON1) benefits using the branded CitrOlive ingredient.
  2. Lockyer S, Rowland I, Spencer JPE, Yaqoob P, Stonehouse W Impact of phenolic-rich olive leaf extract on blood pressure, plasma lipids and inflammatory markers: a randomised controlled trial European Journal of Nutrition. 2017;56(4):1421-1432. doi: 10.1007/s00394-016-1188-y.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized crossover RCT in 60 pre-hypertensive males showing olive leaf extract (136 mg oleuropein) significantly reduced LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure vs placebo. Supports the olive leaf component of CitrOlive's cardiovascular benefits (Triglyceride and oxidized LDL drop). Study is on olive leaf extract as a compound, not the CitrOlive brand.
  3. Araki R, Fujie K, Yuine N, Watabe Y, Nakata Y, Suzuki H, Isoda H, Hashimoto K Olive leaf tea is beneficial for lipid metabolism in adults with prediabetes: an exploratory randomized controlled trial Nutrition Research. 2019;67:60-66. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2019.05.003.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized controlled trial showing olive leaf consumption significantly reduced LDL cholesterol (p<0.01) and triglycerides (p<0.05) in pre-diabetic adults. Supports the LDL and triglyceride reduction benefits attributed to CitrOlive's olive leaf polyphenol component. Study is on olive leaf as a compound, not the CitrOlive brand.