# Macqui Berry (Aristotelia chilensis)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/macqui-berry
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-23
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fruit
**Also Known As:** Aristotelia chilensis, Chilean wineberry, Maqui, Macqui, Chilean blackberry, Patagonian berry, Clon

## Overview

Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is a Chilean superfruit extraordinarily rich in delphinidins, a class of anthocyanin polyphenols that neutralize [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and modulate [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) signaling pathways. Its primary bioactive compounds, delphinidin-3-sambubioside and delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside, confer some of the highest ORAC values recorded among fruits.

## Health Benefits

[{"benefit": "Exhibits Potent [Antioxidant Activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)", "evidence": "Based on *in vitro* evidence, water and ethanol extracts of maqui berry demonstrated significant inhibitory activity against DPPH radical formation, indicating strong antioxidant potential [2]."}, {"benefit": "Provides a Rich Source of Delphinidin Anthocyanins", "evidence": "Based on phytochemical analysis, maqui berry contains a notably high anthocyanin content (137.6 mg/100g fresh fruit), with the principal compound being delphinidin 3-sambubioside-5-glucoside, which comprises 34% of the total [1]."}, {"benefit": "Shows Potential [Anti-Inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) Action", "evidence": "Based on *in vitro* studies, fermented maqui juice demonstrated the capacity to inhibit the expression of key inflammatory proteins iNOS and COX-2, with fermented preparations showing enhanced effects [4]."}, {"benefit": "Delivers a High Concentration of Polyphenols", "evidence": "Based on compositional analysis, maqui berry powder contains a significant polyphenol content, averaging approximately 5g per 100g of powder [3]."}, {"benefit": "Demonstrates Low Heavy Metal Contamination", "evidence": "Based on safety analysis, maqui berry extracts were found to be safe regarding heavy metal content, with arsenic, cadmium, and lead concentrations well below concerning thresholds [2]."}]

## Mechanism of Action

Maqui berry's delphinidins inhibit NF-κB transcriptional activation, reducing downstream expression of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. These anthocyanins also scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by donating hydrogen atoms to free radicals, with the catechol and pyrogallol B-ring structures of delphinidin providing exceptional electron-donating capacity. Additionally, delphinidin-3-glucoside has been shown to inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, slowing carbohydrate [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and attenuating postprandial glucose spikes.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 21 pre-diabetic adults found that 180 mg/day of a standardized maqui berry extract (Delphinol®) reduced fasting plasma glucose by approximately 5% and postprandial glucose AUC by roughly 15% over 3 months. A separate small human study (n=30) demonstrated that maqui berry extract supplementation significantly reduced markers of oxidative stress, including plasma malondialdehyde levels, compared to placebo. Evidence from in vitro and animal models is robust, but large-scale human clinical trials remain limited, making it premature to draw definitive conclusions about long-term efficacy. Current data suggest the most well-supported applications are glycemic modulation and [antioxidant protection](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), both requiring replication in larger, longer-duration trials.

## Nutritional Profile

Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is a nutrient-dense fruit with a distinctive phytochemical profile dominated by polyphenols. Per 100g of fresh fruit, approximate macronutrient composition includes carbohydrates (~13-15g), dietary fiber (~3-5g), protein (~0.5-1g), and fat (<0.5g), with a caloric density of approximately 55-70 kcal. Moisture content is high at ~83-85%. Key micronutrients include vitamin C (approximately 14-20mg/100g), calcium (~20-25mg/100g), potassium (~130-150mg/100g), and iron (~0.5-1mg/100g), though precise mineral concentrations vary by growing region and harvest conditions. The dominant bioactive compounds are anthocyanins, present at exceptionally high concentrations of approximately 135-212mg/100g fresh weight (among the highest recorded for any fruit), with delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside and delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside as the primary anthocyanin glycosides, collectively accounting for ~75% of total anthocyanin content. Total polyphenol content ranges from 500-900mg GAE/100g fresh weight. Ellagitannins, flavonols (quercetin derivatives), and hydroxycinnamic acids (caffeic and ferulic acid) contribute additional [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. In dried/powdered form, anthocyanin concentrations are substantially higher (~800-1200mg/100g). Bioavailability of maqui anthocyanins is moderate; delphinidin glycosides are absorbed in the small intestine and undergo colonic microbial [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) to protocatechuic acid and other phenolic acids, which may mediate systemic effects. Co-consumption with dietary fat may modestly enhance absorption of lipophilic polyphenol fractions.

## Dosage & Preparation

Based on compositional analysis rather than clinical trials, a proposed intake for maqui berry powder is 1.5–2g (approximately 1/2 teaspoon) per single portion [3]. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Maqui berry is generally well tolerated at studied doses (180–1,000 mg/day of standardized extracts), with no serious adverse events reported in available clinical trials. Theoretical interactions exist with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin, as anthocyanins may possess mild platelet-inhibitory properties, warranting caution in patients on blood thinners. Due to its [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management)-lowering activity via α-glucosidase inhibition, concurrent use with antidiabetic drugs like metformin or insulin may potentiate hypoglycemic effects and should be monitored. Safety data in pregnant or lactating women are absent, and use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended without medical supervision.

## Scientific Research

The available research dossier does not contain any published human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses for maqui berry. Current scientific evidence is limited to phytochemical characterization (PMID: 16454470) and *in vitro* laboratory studies investigating its [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mechanisms [1, 2, 4].

## Historical & Cultural Context

The provided research dossier does not contain information regarding the historical or traditional use of maqui berry within indigenous Chilean medicine or other traditional healing systems.

## Synergistic Combinations

Vitamin C, Green Tea Extract (EGCG), Resveratrol, Quercetin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much maqui berry should I take per day?

Clinical studies have most commonly used 180 mg/day of Delphinol®, a standardized maqui berry extract containing at least 35% delphinidins, for glycemic and antioxidant effects. Whole dried maqui berry powder is typically used at 1,000–5,000 mg/day, though standardized extracts deliver more consistent bioactive concentrations. Always follow label guidance and consult a healthcare provider if combining with medications.

### What makes maqui berry different from acai berry?

Maqui berry contains significantly higher concentrations of delphinidins—specifically delphinidin-3-sambubioside and delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside—whereas acai berry's anthocyanin profile is dominated by cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside. Maqui berry consistently scores higher on ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) assays, with values exceeding 27,000 µmol TE/100g compared to acai's roughly 15,000–17,000 µmol TE/100g. This difference in anthocyanin subtype translates to distinct mechanisms, with delphinidins showing stronger NF-κB inhibition in comparative in vitro studies.

### Can maqui berry help lower blood sugar?

Yes, preliminary human evidence supports a modest blood glucose-lowering effect: a placebo-controlled trial using 180 mg/day of Delphinol® reduced postprandial glucose AUC by approximately 15% in pre-diabetic adults over 3 months. The mechanism involves delphinidin-3-glucoside inhibiting intestinal α-glucosidase and α-amylase, enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary carbohydrates into absorbable glucose. However, evidence is limited to small trials, and maqui berry should not replace prescribed antidiabetic therapy.

### What are the main antioxidants in maqui berry?

The principal antioxidants in maqui berry are anthocyanins, predominantly delphinidins (delphinidin-3-sambubioside, delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside, delphinidin-3-glucoside) and cyanidins (cyanidin-3-sambubioside, cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside). Delphinidins account for roughly 70–75% of total anthocyanin content, which is unusually high compared to most other berries. The trihydroxylated B-ring structure of delphinidins provides superior radical-scavenging capacity relative to cyanidin or pelargonidin derivatives.

### Does maqui berry have anti-inflammatory effects?

In vitro studies demonstrate that delphinidin from maqui berry suppresses NF-κB nuclear translocation in macrophages, reducing expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and COX-2 at concentrations as low as 10–50 µM. Animal studies using maqui berry extract have shown reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema and lowered circulating CRP levels. Direct human clinical evidence for anti-inflammatory outcomes is currently limited and has not yet been confirmed in large randomized controlled trials.

### Is maqui berry safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical evidence on the safety of maqui berry supplementation during pregnancy and lactation, so it is generally recommended to consult a healthcare provider before use in these conditions. While maqui berry is a food source in its native regions, the concentrated extracts used in supplements have not been specifically studied in pregnant or nursing women. As with most herbal supplements, caution is advised during these sensitive periods until safety data becomes available.

### Does maqui berry interact with blood thinning medications or anticoagulants?

While maqui berry has not been formally studied for interactions with anticoagulants like warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants, its high anthocyanin content and potential antiplatelet effects suggest caution is warranted. Individuals taking blood thinning medications should consult their healthcare provider before adding maqui berry supplements, as theoretical risk of increased bleeding exists. More clinical research is needed to definitively establish safe concurrent use.

### What is the difference between maqui berry powder, extract, and whole berry supplements?

Maqui berry extracts are concentrated formulations that isolate anthocyanins and other polyphenols, typically offering higher potency per serving than powder, while powder retains more of the whole fruit matrix including fiber. Standardized extracts allow for precise dosing of active compounds (often standardized to delphinidin content), whereas whole berry powders provide a more complete nutrient profile but with variable anthocyanin levels. Extract forms generally demonstrate superior bioavailability in clinical studies, though whole berry preparations may offer synergistic benefits from their full phytochemical composition.

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