Senior Health Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Maqui Berry
The maqui berry is a rich source of antioxidants and may have several beneficial effects, such as slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis, lowering cholesterol production, and reducing blood sugar levels. These berries are a popular component of many health products. However, despite the widespread hype, there is insufficient clinical evidence available to determine whether maqui products are really effective.
The maqui palm is a tree native to Chile and Argentina. Maqui berries, and the juice from them, are high in antioxidants and are becoming a popular ingredient in a variety of health drinks, foods, and supplements. The maqui berry is claimed to provide numerous different health benefits.
(Click Maqui Berry Benefits for more information about possible maqui uses.)
The maqui berry is a rich source of antioxidants due to its polyphenol content. Polyphenols are antioxidants that have a variety of beneficial effects in the body, such as slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Polyphenols may also decrease cholesterol production in the liver and might help lower blood sugar levels. Other components of the berries, such as fiber, may also be beneficial.
Despite the widespread hype, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that maqui products really work in humans, as they have not yet been studied in clinical research (see Does Maqui Berry Really Work? for more information).
There is no well-established standard "dosage" for maqui berries, as is the case with most other fruits (click Maqui Berry Dosage for more information).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD



