Maqui

botanical

What is it

Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) is a deep purple berry native to the Patagonian region of Chile and Argentina, traditionally used by the Mapuche people. It is among the highest known dietary sources of anthocyanins, particularly delphinidin glycosides.

How it works

Maqui berries contain exceptionally high concentrations of anthocyanins, with delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside as the dominant pigment. These compounds are responsible for the berry's deep purple-black color and contribute most of its measured antioxidant capacity in vitro. Anthocyanins from maqui have been studied for effects on glucose metabolism, including modulation of postprandial glucose and insulin response. Mechanistically, anthocyanins may inhibit intestinal carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and alter glucose transporter expression in cell models. Research also suggests possible benefits for tear fluid production in dry eye, linked to a standardized extract (MaquiBright). Maqui is also rich in polyphenols beyond anthocyanins, including phenolic acids and ellagitannins. As with other anthocyanin-rich foods, absorption is low (around 1 to 2 percent of ingested dose), so much of the systemic effect may come from gut metabolites.

Evidence for 4 uses

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

Dry eye syndrome

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Randomized trials of standardized maqui extract (MaquiBright, 60 mg daily) report improvements in tear fluid production and dry eye symptoms over 4 to 8 weeks. Sample sizes are modest and most studies have been conducted with the same proprietary extract.

Postprandial glucose

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Small trials suggest maqui may modestly reduce post-meal glucose and insulin spikes when consumed before or with carbohydrate-containing meals. Effect sizes are small.

Antioxidant status

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Maqui consumption increases blood antioxidant capacity and reduces some markers of oxidative stress in small trials. Long-term clinical implications are unclear.

Cardiovascular markers

Grade D

Mixed evidence

Limited evidence suggests possible modest improvements in lipid profile or blood pressure. Studies are small and few have been conducted.

3 commercial forms

Standardized maqui extract

Concentrated delphinidin glycosides; most studied form.

Capsules of MaquiBright or similar extracts standardized to anthocyanin content (typically 30 to 40 percent). Used in most clinical research.

Maqui berry powder

Whole-fruit form; full polyphenol spectrum.

Freeze-dried berry powder. Less concentrated than extracts but provides fiber and full nutrient matrix.

Maqui juice

Liquid form; check for added sugars.

Less commonly available outside South America. Provides anthocyanins in juice form.

Dosage

There is no RDA. Studies have used 100 to 200 mg of standardized maqui extract (such as MaquiBright at 30 to 40 percent delphinidin glycosides) daily. Whole berry doses are less standardized; 1 to 2 g of powder daily is common. No formal Upper Limit.

When and how to take it

Maqui can be taken at any time of day. The anthocyanins are water-soluble, so fat is not required for absorption. For dry eye support, consistent daily dosing is more important than timing. For postprandial glucose effects, taking maqui with carbohydrate-containing meals may be most relevant.

Safety

Maqui is generally well tolerated at typical supplement doses. Reported side effects are uncommon and include mild gastrointestinal upset. Long-term safety data are limited because most clinical trials have lasted only a few weeks to months.

Who should be cautious

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a clinician before using concentrated maqui extracts due to limited safety data. People on antidiabetic medications should monitor for additive effects. Those with eye conditions should consult an ophthalmologist before using maqui specifically for dry eye.

Interactions

Specific drug interactions for maqui are not well characterized. As an anthocyanin-rich food, it may have modest effects on blood glucose and could theoretically add to antidiabetic medication effects. The polyphenol content may also have mild antiplatelet activity, suggesting caution with concurrent anticoagulant use, though no clinical interactions have been documented.

Frequently asked questions

Is maqui higher in antioxidants than other berries?⌄

Maqui has one of the highest ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) values measured for any berry, primarily due to its high anthocyanin content. ORAC is an in-vitro measure that does not always translate directly to in-body effects.

Does maqui actually help with dry eye?⌄

Several small randomized trials of standardized maqui extract (60 mg/day) suggest improvements in tear production and dry eye symptoms. The evidence is preliminary and most studies have used the same proprietary extract.

Can I eat fresh maqui berries?⌄

Fresh maqui is rarely available outside Chile and Argentina because the berries are delicate and do not transport well. Most North American and European consumption is via powder, extract, or juice.

Is maqui safe long-term?⌄

Most clinical trials have lasted only weeks to months. Long-term safety data are limited but no significant adverse effects have been reported at typical doses.

References

  • Maqui (Wikidata) — Wikidata link

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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.