Eriodictyol

PhytochemicalFlavonoid

What is it

Eriodictyol is a flavanone found in lemons, oranges, and other citrus, as well as in the herb yerba santa (Eriodictyon californicum). It has antioxidant activity and a bitter taste.

How it works

Eriodictyol is one of several citrus flavanones with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory studies. It modulates the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and can scavenge reactive oxygen species directly. It is also a known bitter taste blocker; trace amounts on the tongue can reduce the perception of bitterness from caffeine and other bitter compounds, which has led to its use in flavor masking. Human clinical evidence for eriodictyol as a standalone supplement is limited.

Dosage

There is no established daily intake recommendation. Eriodictyol is consumed in small amounts as part of citrus fruit intake. Concentrated supplements vary widely.

When and how to take it

Citrus consumption is in regular meals. Bitter-blocker use is at the time of taste exposure.

1 commercial form

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Eriodictyol (citrus or yerba santa source)

Uncommon as an isolated supplement; more often part of citrus polyphenol blends.

Flavanone absorbed in small intestine; metabolized to glucuronide conjugates.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at dietary intakes. Concentrated supplement safety data is limited.

Who should be cautious

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should keep doses within food-range intake. No specific cautions for typical citrus consumption.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with CYP3A4 are minor compared with grapefruit furanocoumarins. Limited formal data.

Food sources

Lemon

Amount
1 fruit
%DV
—

Orange peel

Amount
1 tsp zest
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does eriodictyol have specific health benefits?⌄

It contributes to the antioxidant pool of citrus fruits. Specific clinical effects from isolated eriodictyol have not been well established in humans.

Why is it in some products as a flavor modifier?⌄

Eriodictyol can blunt bitter taste perception, making it useful for masking the taste of bitter compounds in food and beverages.

References

Eriodictyol on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Eriodictyol (ChEBI:28412) — ChEBI link

Eriodictyol (PubChem CID 440735) — PubChem link

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

Research on Eriodictyol (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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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.