Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) are a group of flavonoids mainly found in citrus peels, particularly in sweet oranges and tangerines. Scientific research over the past two decades has investigated the cholesterol-lowering effects of PMFs, focusing especially on compounds like nobiletin and tangeretin. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that PMFs can significantly reduce serum cholesterol levels, likely by modulating the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism, such as HMG-CoA reductase and LDL receptor expression. These effects may result in decreased cholesterol synthesis and enhanced clearance of LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Human studies are more limited but promising. For example, a 2004 pilot clinical trial published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that a PMF-rich citrus extract (including tangeretin and nobiletin) significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in moderately hypercholesterolemic individuals over a 4-week period. However, the sample size was small, and further large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects and establish optimal dosages and safety.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence from animal and preliminary human studies suggesting that PMFs can support the management of high cholesterol, but more robust clinical research is required before they can be broadly recommended as a primary therapy.

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