ChokeberryA Clinical Perspective

Aronia arbutifolia (red chokeberry) and Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) are two species of this plant that have attracted attention due to their rich anthocyanin content: 1.5 percent by weight of fresh berries. Cyanidin arabinoside and cyanidin galactoside are the two predominant anthocyanins. The health benefits of chokeberry have been evaluated in several clinical studies, mainly for its benefits controlling oxidative stress.

The first study found a reduction in oxidative markers (antibodies to oxidized lipoproteins) in semen when anthocyanins were given to 38 males with oligospermia.¹ Another trial found a reduction in oxidative markers after administration of chokeberry juice (23 mg anthocyanins/100 mL) to athletes after completion of strenuous exercise and after a 24-hour recovery period.² Also related to oxidative stress was a trial looking at pregnancies complicated with intra uterine growth retardation, a stress-promoting complication; administration of chokeberry anthocyanins reduced oxidative markers when compared to a group receiving placebo.³

Other trials have looked at oxidative stress and related health issues. In a three-month trial, researchers found 7 oz/d of chokeberry juice could reduce glucose levels in subjects suffering from diabetes mellitus.⁴

Heart health was the focus of another trial, in which researchers evaluated the impact of chokeberry extract (255 mg/d) in capsules for cardiovascular support by reducing several cardiovascular risk markers under stress conditions such as myocardial infarction.⁵ Significant reduction of oxidative stress as seen by a reduction in inflammation and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, although lipid and lipoprotein levels were not affected. Potential benefits of chokeberry have been suggested for colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, gastric mucosal disorders and eye inflammation; however, all need clinical evaluation.

Pharmacokinetic studies in humans have been conducted to determine the bioavailability of anthocyanins from chokeberry at moderate to high dosing (>700 mg). Both serum and urine samples show cyanidine glucosides are rapidly absorbed and extensively metabolized upon ingestion.^6,7 The conjugated metabolites are primarily methylated and glucuronilated derivatives of the parent glucoside, which are likely contributing to the health benefits of this berry.

References on the next page...

References

1. Pawlowicz P et al. Ginecol Pol. 2001;72(2):983-8.

2. Pilaczynska S. Int J Sport Nutr Metab. 2005;15(1):48-58.

3. Pawlowicz P et al. Ginecol Pol. 2000;71(8):848-53.

4. Simeonov S et al. Folia Med. 2002;44(3):20-3.

5. Narnszewicz M et al. Eur Heart J. 2004;25:518.

6. Kay CD et al. J Nutr. 2005;135(11):2582-8.

7. Kay CD et al. Br J Nutr. 2004;91(6):933-42.