Citrin

PhytochemicalFlavonoidBest with a meal

What is it

'Citrin' is a trade name historically used for two distinct products: an early flavonoid mixture from citrus peel (containing hesperidin and others), and a standardized Garcinia cambogia fruit-rind extract providing hydroxycitric acid (HCA).

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Weight loss (Garcinia/HCA form)

Mixed Evidence

Mixed clinical data; effects are typically small and not consistent across well-designed trials.

How it works

If the product is a citrus-bioflavonoid 'Citrin,' it provides flavonoids such as hesperidin and rutin, which have antioxidant activity and may support capillary tone in some clinical studies (mostly for venous symptoms). If the product is Garcinia 'Citrin' (also marketed as Citrin K or Citrin Plus), the active ingredient is hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which inhibits ATP-citrate lyase in fat synthesis. Despite this mechanism, weight loss trials have been mixed and generally underwhelming.

Dosage

For Garcinia-based Citrin, studies have used 500-1500 mg of HCA per day, typically three times daily 30-60 minutes before meals. For citrus bioflavonoid forms, doses depend on the flavonoid content listed on the label.

When and how to take it

Garcinia-based Citrin is taken 30-60 minutes before meals. Citrus bioflavonoid forms can be taken with meals.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Garcinia cambogia extract (HCA-standardized)

The most common modern interpretation of 'Citrin' on supplement labels.

Calcium or potassium salts of HCA are more soluble than free acid.

Citrus bioflavonoid concentrate

Contains hesperidin and other citrus flavonoids.

Older usage of the name.

Safety

Garcinia extracts are generally well tolerated at typical doses but have been associated with rare case reports of liver injury, particularly in combination products. Citrus bioflavonoid products are generally well tolerated.

Who should be cautious

Avoid Garcinia-based products in pregnancy, breastfeeding, liver disease, and bipolar disorder (case reports of mood episodes). Use cautiously with antidiabetic and serotonergic medications.

Interactions

Garcinia-containing 'Citrin' may interact with antidiabetic medications (additive glucose-lowering), statins (theoretical), and SSRIs (rare serotonin syndrome reports). Citrus flavonoids may mildly affect certain cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Frequently asked questions

Does Citrin help me lose weight?⌄

Clinical evidence for the Garcinia/HCA form is mixed and effects are typically modest at best. Diet and physical activity remain the main drivers of weight change.

Is Garcinia cambogia safe for my liver?⌄

Most users tolerate it well, but there have been rare reports of liver injury, especially with multi-ingredient products. Stop use and consult a clinician if you notice jaundice, dark urine, or unusual fatigue.

References

Citrin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Citrin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Citrin with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.