What is naringin used to treat? Is naringin safe for humans?

November 13, 2023

Naringin is a flavonoid glycoside present in the skin of grapefruits and oranges, responsible for their bitter taste. Its aglycon, naringenin, is naturally synthesized in citrus fruits. Naringin's potential health benefits include normalizing liver weight, reducing fat droplet deposition in the liver, and potentially alleviating various health issues. It is enriched in various medicinal plants and fruits, sparking increased attention for its potential contributions to overall health.

What is naringin used to treat?

Naringin, a flavonoid compound, has shown promise in the treatment and prevention of various conditions such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Its medicinal value lies in its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can offer protection against certain pathophysiological conditions. Moreover, naringin's potential as an alternative to traditional anti-inflammatory drugs is noteworthy due to its lower incidence of side effects compared to chemically synthesized compounds. It finds wide application in treating conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, particularly as a potent herbal remedy that promotes the proliferation of stem cells by inducing pro-osteogenic effects. Its effect on enhancing the proliferation of human bone marrow stem cells has been tested in vitro.

Is naringin safe for humans?

Naringin is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts. Ingestion of 150 to 900mg doses of naringenin is safe in healthy adults, and serum concentrations are proportional to the dose administered. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Dosage: High doses of naringin may cause stomach irritation and interfere with certain medications' metabolism, particularly those processed by the liver. It's known to inhibit certain enzymes in the liver, potentially affecting the metabolism of medications.
2. Drug Interactions: Due to its impact on liver enzymes, individuals taking medications should be cautious. Naringin might interact with drugs processed in the liver, affecting their effectiveness or leading to increased side effects.
3. Allergies or Sensitivities: Some individuals might have allergies or sensitivities to citrus fruits or specific compounds found in them, so they should be cautious when consuming naringin.
4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There isn't enough information about the safety of naringin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it's advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding women to avoid excessive intake.