Safety Profile
Overall safety rating: Generally Safe
Bergamot (Citrus Bergamot) Side Effects & Safety
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Potential Side Effects
- Mild GI discomfort (heartburn, nausea)
- Muscle cramps at high doses (rare)
- Photosensitivity with bergamot essential oil (not relevant for oral BPF extract)
- Dizziness (uncommon)
Drug & Supplement Interactions
- Statin drugs — additive cholesterol-lowering effects (may allow dose reduction under medical supervision)
- Diabetes medications — may enhance blood glucose lowering; monitor levels
- Anticoagulants — bergamot may have mild antiplatelet effects; use caution
Maximum Dose
Do not exceed: 1500mg/day (limited data above 1000mg)
References
- Mollace V, Sacco I, Janda E, Malara C, Ferro D, Catapano A, Romeo F (2011). Hypolipemic and hypoglycaemic activity of bergamot polyphenols: from animal models to human studies. Fitoterapia. DOI PubMed
- Gliozzi M, Walker R, Muscoli S, Vitale C, Gratteri S, Carresi C, Musolino V, Russo V, Janda E, Ragusa S, Aloe A, Palma E, Muscoli C, Romeo F, Mollace V (2014). Bergamot polyphenolic fraction enhances rosuvastatin-induced effect on LDL-cholesterol, LOX-1 expression and protein kinase B phosphorylation in patients with hyperlipidemia. International Journal of Cardiology. DOI PubMed