Citrus Bergamot Lower Cholesterol: What Science Really Says?
- Herbs around us
- Oct 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 23
High cholesterol is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease worldwide. While medications like statins remain the standard treatment, many people are also exploring natural options for added support. Among them, citrus bergamot has gained attention for its unique ability to influence cholesterol levels.
In this article, we’ll examine what scientific studies reveal about citrus bergamot’s role in cholesterol management, how it compares to standard treatments, and what you should know before trying it.
Quick Answer
Research suggests that citrus bergamot supplements may lower total cholesterol, reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and decrease triglycerides. These effects are attributed to polyphenolic compounds unique to bergamot. While promising, bergamot is not a substitute for statins, and anyone on prescription medication should consult their doctor before use.
How Citrus Bergamot Affects Cholesterol
Citrus bergamot contains powerful plant compounds—brutieridin and melitidin—that are structurally similar to natural statins. These compounds appear to block HMG-CoA reductase, the same enzyme targeted by cholesterol-lowering drugs, though in a milder way.
Key Mechanisms
Reduces LDL cholesterol: Clinical studies show reductions of up to 20–30%.
Raises HDL cholesterol: Modest improvements in “good” cholesterol levels.
Lowers triglycerides: Some trials found a 25–40% reduction.
Improves cholesterol ratio: Better balance between LDL and HDL supports overall cardiovascular health.
What the Research Says
Clinical Trial Evidence
A 2014 randomized trial of 237 patients found that taking 500–1,000 mg of bergamot extract daily significantly lowered total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, while raising HDL.
A 2019 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlighted bergamot’s polyphenolic fraction as a promising natural adjunct for people with metabolic syndrome.
Other small-scale studies support improvements in lipid markers, especially in people who are statin-intolerant or have borderline cholesterol levels.
Who May Benefit Most
People with mild to moderately high cholesterol.
Individuals who cannot tolerate statins due to side effects.
Those with metabolic syndrome, where multiple risk factors overlap (elevated blood pressure, waist circumference, cholesterol, and blood sugar).
How It Compares to Statins
Statins: Strong, prescription-only drugs proven to lower cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Bergamot: A Natural option that can provide moderate reductions but is not as powerful.
Best use case: As a complement to lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) and, in some cases, alongside medical treatment (only under doctor supervision).
Safety and Side Effects
Most people tolerate citrus bergamot well. Reported side effects are usually mild and may include stomach upset. Rare cases of muscle pain have been reported, especially when combined with statins.
Important considerations:
People on cholesterol-lowering medication should consult a doctor before adding bergamot.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use unless approved by a healthcare provider.
Recommended Dosage for Cholesterol Support
Typical dosage: 500–1,000 mg per day of standardized bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF).
Timing: Usually taken with meals.
Duration: Studies track results after 8–12 weeks of daily use.
Citrus bergamot is one of the most promising natural options for cholesterol support. Clinical trials suggest it can lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and raise HDL, thanks to its unique polyphenolic compounds.
It should not be considered a replacement for statins or other prescription drugs, but may offer additional support for those looking to improve cardiovascular health naturally. As always, talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
FAQ
Does citrus bergamot really lower cholesterol?
Yes. Studies show reductions in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, along with increases in HDL.
Is bergamot as effective as statins?
No. Bergamot is milder and should not replace statins. It may complement lifestyle changes or help those with moderate cholesterol.
How long does it take for citrus bergamot to work?
Most studies show changes after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
What is the best dose for cholesterol support?
Between 500–1,000 mg per day of standardized extract, taken with meals.
References
Gliozzi M, et al. Bergamot polyphenolic fraction improves metabolic syndrome. Int J Cardiol. 2014.
Mollace V, et al. Citrus Bergamot: From Calabrian Traditional Medicine to Clinical Use. Front Pharmacol. 2019.
Mayo Clinic. Cholesterol management: Lifestyle and natural products.
