Overview
Red orange extract (ROC), derived from Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck, is a standardized botanical extract rich in anthocyanins, flavonoids, and other polyphenolic compounds that contribute to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These bioactive constituents help mitigate oxidative stress by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), enhancing endogenous antioxidant defenses such as glutathione (GSH), and reducing inflammatory markers like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) [3][4]. Clinical studies demonstrate that supplementation with red orange extract improves antioxidant status in populations exposed to environmental stressors, including elderly individuals and traffic police officers exposed to air pollution, as evidenced by reduced serum d-ROMs and increased erythrocyte GSH levels [3][4]. The anthocyanins in red orange, primarily cyanidin-3-glucoside and peonidin-3-glucoside, are well-absorbed and contribute to cardiovascular protection through anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, and lipid-stabilizing mechanisms [1][5]. Additionally, compounds in orange peel, including vitamin C, phenolics, and flavonoids, exhibit strong free radical scavenging activity, supporting the use of whole-extract formulations for enhanced bioactivity [6][8].
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Ensures consistent levels of cyanidin- and peonidin-3-glucosides for reliable antioxidant effects
Rich in flavonoids (e.g., hesperidin), pectin, and vitamin C; supports vascular and metabolic health
Clinical Notes
- Red orange extract is generally well-tolerated, but potential interactions with cytochrome P450 enzymes (e.g., CYP3A4) should be considered due to citrus flavonoids.
- Avoid high-dose supplementation in individuals on anticoagulants due to theoretical risk of increased bleeding from flavonoid content.
- Not to be confused with bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract containing p-synephrine, which has stimulant effects and cardiovascular risks.
Research
Anthocyanin intake is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) contains p-synephrine; this study focuses on safety and stimulant effects, not red orange antioxidant benefits.
Standardized red orange extract significantly improves antioxidant markers (GSH, d-ROMs) and reduces TNF-α in elderly subjects after 8 weeks.
Red orange extract reduces oxidative stress biomarkers in traffic police officers exposed to air pollution and smoking.
Anthocyanins in blood oranges are responsible for red pigmentation and exhibit high antioxidant capacity and bioavailability.
Orange peel extract is rich in phenolics, flavonoids, and vitamin C, showing strong dose-dependent antioxidant activity in vitro.
Orange juice consumption did not significantly affect paraoxonase-1 activity in patients with peripheral arterial disease.
Orange essential oil from peels has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, primarily due to limonene and other terpenes.
