# Capros (Phyllanthus emblica extract)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/capros
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Phyllanthus emblica extract, Indian gooseberry extract, Amla extract, Amalaki extract, Emblica officinalis extract, Standardized amla extract, Aqueous Phyllanthus emblica extract

## Overview

Capros is a patented, water-soluble extract of Phyllanthus emblica (Indian gooseberry) standardized to low-molecular-weight hydrolyzable tannins, including emblicanin A, emblicanin B, pedunculagin, and punigluconin. These polyphenols exert [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits primarily by inhibiting [lipid peroxidation](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), scavenging free radicals, and modulating endothelial nitric oxide bioavailability.

## Health Benefits

• Improves [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by reducing LDL cholesterol by 21.8% and increasing HDL by 22.16% in metabolic syndrome patients (Strong evidence, PMID: 31060549)
• Enhances endothelial function with reflection index reduction >6% in 12-week clinical trial (Strong evidence, PMID: 31060549)
• Reduces [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by increasing nitric oxide and [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) while decreasing malondialdehyde levels (Strong evidence, PMID: 31060549)
• Lowers [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers including hsCRP in overweight/obese adults (Moderate evidence, PMID: 25756303)
• Supports healthy blood pressure and multiple CVD risk factors in 12-week trials (Moderate evidence, PMID: 25756303)

## Mechanism of Action

Capros's hydrolyzable tannins—emblicanin A and B—inhibit NADPH oxidase-driven superoxide production and suppress NF-κB signaling, reducing vascular [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and endothelial dysfunction. The polyphenols upregulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, improving nitric oxide bioavailability and promoting vasodilation. Additionally, Capros inhibits HMG-CoA reductase activity and reduces oxidized LDL, contributing to its lipid-lowering and anti-atherosclerotic profile.

## Clinical Summary

A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (PMID: 31060549) in metabolic syndrome patients demonstrated that 500 mg/day of Capros reduced LDL cholesterol by 21.8%, increased HDL by 22.16%, and improved [endothelial function](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) as measured by a reflection index reduction greater than 6%. The same trial observed meaningful reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides alongside improvements in arterial stiffness markers. Evidence for cardiovascular endpoints is rated strong based on this human RCT, though larger multi-center trials are needed to confirm long-term outcomes. Preclinical data further support [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mechanisms, reinforcing the clinical findings.

## Nutritional Profile

Capros is a standardized aqueous extract of Phyllanthus emblica (Indian gooseberry) fruit, primarily valued for its concentrated polyphenolic and bioactive compound profile rather than macronutrient content. Key bioactive compounds: Low-molecular-weight hydrolyzable tannins including emblicanin-A (~37% of polyphenolic fraction), emblicanin-B (~33%), punigluconin (~12%), and pedunculagin (~14%). Total polyphenol content: approximately 60-70% (w/w) as gallic acid equivalents, significantly higher than crude amla fruit (~2-3%). Contains gallic acid, ellagic acid, and their derivatives as primary phenolic acids. Rich in superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity compounds. Vitamin C content in the extract is relatively low compared to whole fruit (~0.5-1% w/w) due to aqueous extraction process favoring tannin concentration over ascorbic acid. Mineral content is minimal and not a primary contributor to bioactivity. Typical dosing in clinical trials: 250-500 mg twice daily (500-1000 mg/day). Bioavailability notes: The low-molecular-weight tannins in Capros demonstrate superior bioavailability compared to high-molecular-weight polyphenols found in other botanical extracts; emblicanins are water-soluble and relatively stable at gastric pH, allowing effective intestinal absorption. The hydrolyzable tannin matrix undergoes partial hydrolysis in the gut, releasing gallic acid and ellagic acid which are further metabolized by gut microbiota into urolithins, extending the bioactive half-life. The aqueous standardized extraction process (proprietary to Natreon Inc.) specifically enriches for these bioavailable low-molecular-weight polyphenols while excluding poorly absorbed high-molecular-weight proanthocyanidins. No significant protein, fat, or fiber content at effective supplemental doses.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses include 500mg/day (250mg twice daily) and 1000mg/day (500mg twice daily) in capsule form, with the higher dose showing superior efficacy for [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits in 12-week trials. Studies used standardized aqueous extracts rich in polyphenols. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Capros is generally well tolerated at studied doses of 250–500 mg/day, with no serious adverse events reported in published clinical trials. Due to its mild antiplatelet and anticoagulant properties mediated through tannin-driven thromboxane A2 inhibition, caution is advised when combining Capros with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Phyllanthus emblica or related Phyllanthaceae species should avoid use. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are insufficient, so use is not recommended in these populations without physician guidance.

## Scientific Research

Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials have tested Capros: one with 59 metabolic syndrome patients showing significant improvements in [endothelial function](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), lipids, and [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) at 500-1000mg daily (PMID: 31060549), and another with 120 overweight/obese adults demonstrating reduced cardiovascular risk factors at 500mg daily (PMID: 25756303). Both 12-week studies showed good tolerability with no adverse effects on liver or kidney function.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Phyllanthus emblica (amla) has been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine system, primarily for [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), rejuvenation (rasayana), [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) support, and diabetes management. It has been traditionally valued as an [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) tonic to promote [longevity](/ingredients/condition/longevity) and vitality.

## Synergistic Combinations

Coenzyme Q10, Omega-3 fatty acids, Magnesium, Vitamin D3, Hawthorn extract

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much does Capros lower LDL cholesterol?

In a 12-week randomized controlled trial in metabolic syndrome patients (PMID: 31060549), 500 mg/day of Capros reduced LDL cholesterol by 21.8% compared to baseline. HDL cholesterol simultaneously increased by 22.16%, representing a clinically meaningful shift in the LDL-to-HDL ratio. These results position Capros as a notable natural adjunct for lipid management, though it should not replace statin therapy without physician guidance.

### What is the recommended dosage of Capros?

The clinically studied and most commonly used dose of Capros is 500 mg per day, taken as a single dose or split into two 250 mg servings with meals. This dosage was used in the primary cardiovascular RCT showing significant lipid and endothelial improvements over 12 weeks. No established upper tolerable limit has been published, so doses exceeding 500 mg/day should be approached cautiously until further safety data are available.

### What makes Capros different from regular amla or Indian gooseberry powder?

Capros is a patented, water-soluble extract standardized to low-molecular-weight hydrolyzable tannins—specifically emblicanin A, emblicanin B, pedunculagin, and punigluconin—which are the primary bioactive compounds responsible for its cardiovascular effects. Standard amla powder is not standardized to these tannin fractions and contains variable polyphenol concentrations, fiber, and vitamin C, making it pharmacologically inconsistent. The concentration and bioavailability of these specific tannins in Capros allows for predictable clinical outcomes that whole fruit powder cannot reliably replicate.

### Can Capros improve endothelial function?

Yes, the 12-week clinical trial (PMID: 31060549) showed that 500 mg/day of Capros produced a reflection index reduction of greater than 6%, a validated marker of improved endothelial function and reduced arterial stiffness. This improvement is attributed to enhanced eNOS activity and increased nitric oxide bioavailability driven by Capros's emblicanin polyphenols. Improved endothelial function is associated with lower cardiovascular event risk, making this a mechanistically relevant outcome.

### Does Capros interact with blood pressure or cholesterol medications?

Capros may have additive effects when combined with antihypertensive drugs due to its vasodilatory action through nitric oxide upregulation, potentially requiring blood pressure monitoring and dose adjustment. Its antiplatelet properties—mediated by thromboxane A2 pathway inhibition—create a potential interaction risk with anticoagulants like warfarin and antiplatelet agents like clopidogrel, increasing bleeding risk. Patients on statins may also experience enhanced lipid-lowering effects; while potentially beneficial, this combination warrants physician oversight to monitor liver enzymes and overall lipid levels.

### Is Capros safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

While Phyllanthus emblica has a long history of traditional use, specific safety data for Capros during pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before using Capros if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as individual circumstances may vary.

### Who would benefit most from taking Capros supplementation?

Capros is particularly beneficial for individuals with metabolic syndrome, elevated LDL cholesterol, or those at risk for cardiovascular disease, as clinical trials demonstrate significant improvements in lipid profiles and endothelial function in these populations. It may also benefit those seeking to reduce oxidative stress and improve nitric oxide bioavailability.

### How does Capros standardization affect its effectiveness compared to non-standardized amla extract?

Capros is a standardized extract with defined phyllanthin and emblica tannoid content, ensuring consistent potency and clinical efficacy that non-standardized amla powders cannot guarantee. The standardization process concentrates the bioactive compounds responsible for cardiovascular benefits, making Capros more reliable for achieving the documented clinical outcomes.

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