# Shaddock Fruit **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shaddock-fruit **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-15 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Fruit **Also Known As:** Citrus maxima, Citrus grandis, Pomelo, Chakotra, Shatian pomelo ## Overview Shaddock fruit (Citrus maxima) contains high concentrations of flavonoids including naringin and hesperidin, along with limonoids that demonstrate potent α-glucosidase inhibition with IC50 values as low as 2.4 μM. These bioactive compounds scavenge [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s through DPPH mechanisms while inducing [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) S-transferase activity for cellular antioxidant defense. ## Health Benefits - **Supports immune resilience**: through its high vitamin C content and diverse array of flavonoids. - **Promotes metabolic balance**: by aiding in blood sugar regulation and lipid [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). - **Enhances [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) wellness**: by improving circulation and reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). - **Supports [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)**: through its dietary fiber, aiding regularity and gut microbiome balance. - **Contributes to [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive)**: clarity and neuroprotection via its rich polyphenol and limonoid profile. - **Promotes skin hydration**: and [collagen synthesis](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) due to vitamin C and antioxidant compounds. - **Aids in stress**: management and emotional balance through its [adaptogen](/ingredients/condition/stress)ic properties. ## Mechanism of Action Naringin and hesperidin flavonoids inhibit α-glucosidase enzyme activity, reducing postprandial glucose spikes with demonstrated IC50 values of 80.77 μg/mL in peel extracts. Limonoids including limonin and nomilin induce [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) S-transferase expression, enhancing cellular antioxidant capacity and reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers. Pectin fibers with RG-I branching patterns promote short-chain fatty acid production (acetate, propionate, butyrate) in the [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) while inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity by 38.77%. ## Clinical Summary Current evidence derives primarily from in vitro assays and animal studies, with no published human clinical trials available. In vitro studies demonstrate DPPH radical scavenging activity with IC50 values of 101.36 µg/mL for leaf extracts, while mouse models show reduced malondialdehyde levels and improved superoxide dismutase activity. [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) studies report effective inhibition of aflatoxin B1 at 500 ppm concentrations using enzyme-ultrasound extracts. Human clinical trials are needed to validate therapeutic efficacy and establish clinical dosing parameters. ## Nutritional Profile - Vitamin C: Potent immune booster and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). - Flavonoids (Naringenin, Hesperidin): Deliver antioxidant, [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits. - Polyphenols, Limonoids: Contribute to cellular defense, metabolic regulation, and [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) support. - Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium: Essential minerals for electrolyte balance, nerve function, and [bone health](/ingredients/condition/bone-health). - Dietary Fiber: Supports [digestive health](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) and satiety. ## Dosage & Preparation - Consume fresh or juiced for maximum nutrient intake. - Peel dried and brewed into tea for digestive and [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). - 500–1000 mg powdered extract daily under professional guidance. ## Safety & Drug Interactions No specific toxicity data or contraindications are reported in current literature, though shaddock fruit is generally recognized as safe for food consumption. As a citrus family member, potential CYP3A4 enzyme inhibition may occur, though likely less potent than grapefruit, potentially affecting [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) of statins, calcium channel blockers, and immunosuppressive medications. High fiber content may cause gastrointestinal upset with overconsumption, and individuals with citrus allergies should exercise caution. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before therapeutic use due to limited safety data. ## Scientific Research Research highlights Shaddock Fruit's [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and immune-modulating properties, particularly due to its high vitamin C and flavonoid content. Studies also explore its potential in metabolic regulation, [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) function, and [cognitive](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) support. ## Historical & Cultural Context Traditionally revered in Chinese, Indian, and Caribbean medicine, Shaddock Fruit supported [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health), immune health, [liver detox](/ingredients/condition/detox)ification, and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) function. It symbolized prosperity, purification, and [longevity](/ingredients/condition/longevity), with modern research now validating its broad spectrum of health benefits. ## Synergistic Combinations Role: Polyphenol/[antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) base Intention: Cardio & Circulation | Cognition & Focus Primary Pairings: - Turmeric (Curcuma longa) - Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia) - Ginger (Zingiber officinale) - Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What makes shaddock fruit effective for blood sugar control? Shaddock fruit contains flavonoids like naringin that inhibit α-glucosidase enzyme with IC50 values as low as 2.4 μM, slowing carbohydrate digestion and reducing post-meal glucose spikes. The BARI-2 variety shows particularly strong activity at 85.57 μM acarbose equivalents per gram dry matter. ### Which part of shaddock fruit has the highest antioxidant activity? The peel contains the highest concentrations of bioactive compounds, with enzyme-ultrasound extracts (E-UAE) yielding maximum total phenolic content and flavonoid levels. BARI-3 variety peels demonstrate superior DPPH and FRAP antioxidant capacity compared to other cultivars. ### Can shaddock fruit interact with prescription medications? While specific interaction data is limited, shaddock fruit may inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes similar to other citrus fruits, potentially affecting metabolism of statins, blood pressure medications, and immunosuppressants. Patients on these medications should consult healthcare providers before therapeutic use. ### How does shaddock fruit support digestive health? Shaddock peels contain insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) and pectin with RG-I branching that promote beneficial short-chain fatty acids including acetate, propionate, and butyrate production. These compounds enhance gut barrier function while providing bifidogenic prebiotic effects for microbiome balance. ### What extraction method produces the most potent shaddock fruit compounds? Enzyme-ultrasound assisted extraction (E-UAE) produces the highest yields of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, naringin, and hesperidin compared to conventional methods. This technique outperforms ultrasound alone, enzyme extraction alone, or combined ultrasound-enzyme approaches. ### Is shaddock fruit safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Shaddock fruit is generally recognized as safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its natural origin and nutrient density, including vitamin C and folate. However, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before adding supplement forms, as concentrated extracts may have different safety profiles than whole fruit consumption. Moderate consumption of fresh shaddock fruit is considered a safe dietary addition for expectant and nursing mothers. ### What is the recommended daily dosage of shaddock fruit extract, and when should I take it? Typical shaddock fruit extract supplementation ranges from 250–500 mg daily, though optimal dosage depends on the extract potency and individual health goals. Taking shaddock fruit supplement with meals enhances absorption of its fat-soluble flavonoids and may minimize any gastrointestinal sensitivity. For cardiovascular and metabolic support, consistent daily intake is more effective than occasional use, preferably taken in the morning or with meals. ### How does shaddock fruit compare to other citrus fruits like grapefruit or pomelo for health benefits? Shaddock fruit (Citrus grandis) is closely related to pomelo and grapefruit but contains a unique flavonoid profile with potentially higher levels of naringin and other bioactive compounds that support cardiovascular health. Unlike grapefruit, shaddock fruit has a lower risk of significant drug interactions while maintaining similar vitamin C and antioxidant benefits. Shaddock's larger fruit size and higher fiber content make it particularly effective for digestive and metabolic support compared to smaller citrus varieties. ## References Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39678912; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453019303739; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7157460/ --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*