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CardiovascularMetabolic HealthAntioxidant

Naringenin

Evidence Level
Limited
2 Clinical Trials
5 Documented Benefits
2/5 Evidence Score

Naringenin is a citrus flavanone found primarily in grapefruit, oranges, and tomatoes. The aglycone form of naringin (the bitter compound in grapefruit). Studied for cardiovascular, metabolic, and antioxidant effects. Active in research as anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, and potential anti-cancer compound. CRITICAL: naringin (glycoside form, abundant in grapefruit) is responsible for the GRAPEFRUIT-DRUG INTERACTION — naringenin (aglycone) is metabolite with different effects.

Studied Dose 150-500 mg/day; emerging supplement category; standardized doses not yet well-established
Active Compound Naringenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavanone) — aglycone form

Benefits

Cardiovascular / Lipid Effects

Naringenin reduces hepatic lipogenesis and improves lipid profile in animal models. Modest human evidence. Mechanism: PPAR-alpha activation similar to fibrates.

Supported by Trial 1

Insulin Sensitivity / Glycemic Effects

Animal models show improved insulin sensitivity and reduced hepatic glucose production. Human clinical translation modest.

Supported by Trial 1

Antioxidant Activity

Direct free radical scavenging plus Nrf2 pathway activation. Component of cardiovascular and longevity supplementation.

Supported by Trial 2

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Reduces inflammatory cytokine production, modulates NF-κB pathway. Modest anti-inflammatory profile.

Supported by Trial 1

Hepatitis C Antiviral Research (Preliminary)

Some research shows naringenin reduces hepatitis C virus secretion in vitro. Theoretical antiviral applications; clinical translation pending.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 1

Mechanism of action

1

PPAR-Alpha Activation

Naringenin activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-alpha) — same nuclear receptor target as fibrate drugs (gemfibrozil, fenofibrate). Reduces lipogenesis, increases fatty acid oxidation.

2

AMPK Activation

Activates AMP-activated protein kinase — improving glucose uptake, fat oxidation, reduced lipogenesis. Same target as metformin and exercise.

3

NARINGIN VS NARINGENIN DISTINCTION (Grapefruit Drug Interaction)

CRITICAL: NARINGIN (the glycoside form, abundant in grapefruit) is responsible for the famous grapefruit-drug interaction via inhibition of intestinal CYP3A4 and OATP transporters. NARINGENIN (the aglycone metabolite formed by gut bacteria) has DIFFERENT pharmacology and likely doesn't replicate the full grapefruit effect. Supplemental naringenin should not produce grapefruit-juice level drug interactions, but data is limited.

4

Antioxidant Pathway Activation

Direct radical scavenging plus Nrf2 transcription factor activation upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes.

Clinical trials

1
Naringenin / Grapefruit Polyphenols for Lipids — Multiple Animal Studies
PubMed

Multiple animal studies of naringenin for hyperlipidemia and metabolic syndrome.

Animal models predominantly.

Significant improvements in lipid profile, glucose, insulin sensitivity in animals. Human trials limited and lower quality.

2
Naringenin Pharmacokinetics in Humans
PubMed

Pharmacokinetic studies establishing naringenin oral bioavailability and metabolism.

Healthy adults.

Naringenin oral bioavailability low (~5-15%); rapidly metabolized to glucuronides and sulfates. Plasma concentrations achievable with supplementation may be insufficient for some in vitro mechanisms.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well-tolerated.
Mild GI distress.
Headache rare.
Allergic reactions to citrus rare.
Theoretical CYP enzyme effects (modest at supplemental doses; less than grapefruit juice).

Important Drug interactions

GRAPEFRUIT-INTERACTING DRUGS — theoretical concern though naringenin (vs naringin in grapefruit juice) may not fully replicate grapefruit-drug interaction; if on drugs known to interact with grapefruit (statins like simvastatin/atorvastatin, calcium channel blockers, certain immunosuppressants), discuss with prescriber.
Statins — theoretical (less than grapefruit juice).
Calcium channel blockers — theoretical (less than grapefruit juice).
Cyclosporine, tacrolimus — theoretical (less than grapefruit juice).
Hypertensive medications — modest theoretical additive effects.
Diabetes medications — theoretical hypoglycemic effects.

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Frequently asked questions about Naringenin

What is the recommended dosage of Naringenin?

The clinically studied dose for Naringenin is 150-500 mg/day; emerging supplement category; standardized doses not yet well-established. Always follow product labeling and consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

What is Naringenin used for?

Naringenin is studied for cardiovascular / lipid effects, insulin sensitivity / glycemic effects, antioxidant activity. Naringenin reduces hepatic lipogenesis and improves lipid profile in animal models. Modest human evidence. Mechanism: PPAR-alpha activation similar to fibrates.

Are there side effects from taking Naringenin?

Reported potential side effects may include: Generally well-tolerated. Mild GI distress. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.

Does Naringenin interact with medications?

Known drug interactions may include: GRAPEFRUIT-INTERACTING DRUGS — theoretical concern though naringenin (vs naringin in grapefruit juice) may not fully replicate grapefruit-drug interaction; if on drugs known to interact with grapefruit (statins like simvastatin/atorvastatin, calcium channel blockers, certain immunosuppressants), discuss with prescriber. Consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you take prescription medications.

Is Naringenin good for cardiovascular?

Yes, Naringenin is researched for Cardiovascular support. Naringenin reduces hepatic lipogenesis and improves lipid profile in animal models. Modest human evidence. Mechanism: PPAR-alpha activation similar to fibrates.