Bergamot, a citrus fruit native to Italy, has garnered attention for its potential cholesterol-lowering properties. Extracts derived from the fruit’s peel and juice are rich in bioactive flavonoids such as naringin, neohesperidin, and brutieridin—compounds structurally similar to statins, the commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs. Clinical studies suggest that oral supplementation with standardized bergamot extract may help reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” in patients with hyperlipidemia. The flavonoids in bergamot appear to inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol production in the liver, while also enhancing cholesterol excretion and improving vascular function.
While bergamot shows promise in managing cholesterol, it is important to approach its use cautiously. Extracts have been shown to be possibly safe for short-term oral use in adults when taken in specific doses—typically up to 1000 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. Individuals considering its use should consult healthcare professionals, especially if they are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.
