Last verified: today
Coffee Cherry Extract
Also known as: CCE, whole coffee cherry extract, coffee fruit extract, Coffea arabica fruit extract, cascara extract
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Extract from coffee's fruit (not the bean). Early trials suggest it may sharpen memory and focus.
-
What it does
Coffee cherry extract comes from the fruit surrounding the coffee bean — a part usually discarded during processing. It's rich in polyphenols and is studied primarily for cognitive benefits. Two...
-
Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
-
Clinical dose
200 mg daily based on available study doses
-
Found in
What the Science Says
Coffee cherry extract comes from the fruit surrounding the coffee bean — a part usually discarded during processing. It's rich in polyphenols and is studied primarily for cognitive benefits. Two small clinical trials suggest a 200 mg daily dose may improve working memory, reaction time, and attention, with effects appearing within the first week and continuing over 28 days. Researchers believe it may work partly by increasing BDNF, a protein that supports brain cell growth, and by reducing oxidative stress in the blood.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to boost energy like caffeine — most studied forms are decaffeinated. No solid evidence it prevents dementia or reverses cognitive decline. Don't expect dramatic results; the cognitive improvements in studies were modest. Not shown to help with physical performance, weight loss, or immunity based on available data.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Improves working memory accuracy in adults after a single 200 mg dose and with daily use.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 200 mg daily
Reduces reaction time in older adults with mild cognitive decline over 28 days.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 200 mg daily
Reduces errors of omission and improves inhibitory control in a single-dose cognitive test.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 200 mg daily
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic studies were included in the provided data. Earlier research cited in the trials suggests measurable changes in blood BDNF levels, implying some bioactive compounds are absorbed.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Only 4 clinical trials indexed — this is a very thin evidence base for a widely sold ingredient
- Most studies appear to be funded or conducted by parties with commercial interest in the ingredient — independent replication is limited
- No long-term safety data available beyond 28-day study windows
- Marketed in over 1,000 registered supplement products despite minimal published research
Products Containing Coffee Cherry Extract
See how Coffee Cherry Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PMID 39064791
- PMID 31829793
- General knowledge
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25