Maqui Berry
Also known as: Aristotelia chilensis, Delphinol, maqui berry extract, MBE, delphinidin-rich maqui berry extract
Effective Dosage
162-180 mg anthocyanins daily (standardized extract); No established dose for whole berry
What the Science Says
Maqui berry is a deep-purple South American fruit packed with anthocyanins — plant pigments that act as antioxidants in the body. Small clinical trials suggest that standardized maqui berry extract (around 162–180 mg of anthocyanins daily) may reduce markers of oxidative stress, modestly lower blood glucose and LDL cholesterol in prediabetic individuals, and improve symptoms of dry eye disease over 2–3 months. Lab and animal studies also point to anti-inflammatory effects in the gut, but these have not yet been confirmed in human trials.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to cause meaningful weight loss. No solid evidence it detoxifies the liver in humans. Pain-relief effects are only from mouse studies — don't expect it to replace pain medication. Supplement pills often contain far less active ingredient than the actual berry. Blood sugar benefits are modest and studied only in prediabetic people, not as a diabetes treatment.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Maqui berry is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Some clinical trials suggest potential benefits for metabolic health and blood sugar regulation, but more research is needed to confirm these effects.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic studies were provided. One metabolomics study found that berry-based supplements often contain minimal actual berry content, raising concerns about whether commercial products deliver meaningful doses of active anthocyanins.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most clinical trials are very small (20–42 participants) and short-term, limiting confidence in results
- A metabolomics study found that commercial berry supplements frequently contain little actual berry — label claims may not reflect real anthocyanin content
- The proprietary extract 'Delphinol®' was used in multiple trials, creating potential industry bias; results may not apply to generic maqui products
- Blood glucose and lipid benefits were only studied in prediabetic individuals — do not use as a substitute for diabetes medication
- Pain-relief and gut/liver benefits are based on animal or cell studies only — no human evidence yet
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: 2026-04-06