Black Currant Extract
Also known as: Ribes nigrum, NZBC, New Zealand Black Currant, black currant anthocyanin extract, BCE
Effective Dosage
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Black currant extract is a concentrated berry supplement rich in anthocyanins — the pigments that give black currants their deep color and most of their health properties. One small double-blind clinical trial found that 7 days of supplementation increased fat burning during moderate-intensity exercise by about 29% and produced a modest additional drop in systolic blood pressure after exercise. Lab studies suggest the anthocyanins in black currant may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and animal research hints at potential blood sugar and cognitive benefits, though these have not been confirmed in humans.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to cause meaningful weight loss. The fat-burning effect was measured during exercise in a lab — it won't melt fat while you sit on the couch. No human evidence it improves vision, prevents myopia, or protects your brain. Anti-inflammatory effects shown only in cell cultures, not in people. Don't expect it to replace blood pressure medication.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Black currant extract is a concentrated berry supplement rich in anthocyanins — the pigments that give black currants their deep color and most of their health properties. One small double-blind clinical trial found that 7 days of supplementation increased fat burning during moderate-intensity exercise by about 29% and produced a modest additional drop in systolic blood pressure after exercise. Lab studies suggest the anthocyanins in black currant may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and animal research hints at potential blood sugar and cognitive benefits, though these have not been confirmed in humans.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose (insufficient research data)
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — the provided studies do not report pharmacokinetic data on anthocyanin absorption from black currant extract in humans
Red Flags to Watch For
- Only one small human RCT (22 participants) supports the exercise fat-oxidation and blood pressure claims — far too small to draw firm conclusions
- Most supporting evidence comes from cell cultures and animal models, which frequently do not translate to human benefits
- Specific effective doses are not established — products may vary widely in anthocyanin content and standardization
- Over 1,000 registered supplement products exist, suggesting heavy commercialization that may outpace the actual evidence base
- Sex-specific effects were observed (fat oxidation correlated with body fat % in women but not men), meaning results may not apply equally to everyone
Products Containing Black Currant Extract
See how Black Currant Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-09