In 2009, Blogs & News

Breakthrough cholesterol lowering citrus from Calabria, Italy

Bradenton, Fl. October 7, 2009 – A new human clinical trial involving 82 dyslipidemic patients showed significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, blood glucose level, and significant increase in HDL cholesterol.

Bergamot is the common name of the fruit Citrus bergamia Risso, which grows only in the coastal region of the Ionian Sea in the southern Calabrian region of Italy. Bergamot essential oil is used widely in the cosmetic and perfumery industries. Citrus Bergamot contains high level of naringin, neoeriocitrin, and neohesperidin.

This news comes on the heels of recent published research on Journal of Natural Product, July 2009, which showed bergamot fruit contains rare higher molecular weight flavonoids carrying the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid (HMG) moiety. Prof. G. Sindona from Calabria University had identified four flavonoids able to interfere with the natural synthesis of cholesterol in human body, by inhibiting the activity of the first enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway: HMG-CoA reductase (3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaril-coenzyme A reductase).

The new human clinical trial involved 82 dyslipidemic patients, all with total cholesterol and triglyceride over 250. These patients were given either one or two 500 mg capsule of Citrus Bergamot Polyphenolic Extract for 30 days. At the end of the 30 days, the research showed an average of 31.44% reduction in Total Cholesterol, 42.82% increase in HDL Cholesterol, 38.84% reduction in LDL Cholesterol, 41.54% reduction in Triglycerides, and 21.93% reduction in Blood Glucose level.

Lead researcher, Vincenzo Mollace, PhD, MD, professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University “Magna Graecia”, in Catanzaro, Italy was encouraged by the result. “In just four weeks, we saw a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides among these dyslipidemic patients who had elevated cholesterol levels and high risk for CVD. In addition, we are seeing significant increase in HDL, the good cholesterol and reduction in blood glucose as well.” says Mollace.

Earlier this year, HP Ingredients had signed a 10 years exclusive distribution agreement with the Bergamot Co-op in Italy that controls more than 80% of worldwide bergamot production. “We are excited to introduce Citrus Bergamot to North America. We currently offer Citrus Bergamot Polyphenolic Extract, Citrus Bergamot 40 brix Juice Concentrate, and Citrus Bergamot Pastazzo.” says Founder and President Annie Eng.

About HP Ingredients: HP Ingredients is a fast growing innovative herbal health science company that focused on bringing branded, science-based, nutraceuticals to the world market. HP Ingredients work closely with top scientists from around the world to provide on going research on its premier ingredients. Besides the 5 premier ingredients, HP ingredients also offer over 200 standardized botanical extracts.

For further information about Citrus Bergamot, please visit our website at www.hpingredients.com or contact Hame at hame@hpingredients.com or 877-437-2234 ext 300.

Recent Posts