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Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®)

Aristotelia chilensis
Evidence Level
Moderate
3 Clinical Trials
5 Documented Benefits
3/5 Evidence Score

Maqui berry is a small dark-purple fruit native to the Patagonian rainforests of Chile and Argentina, harvested for centuries by the Mapuche people. It contains one of the highest concentrations of anthocyanins of any known fruit, dominated by delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside and delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside, giving it exceptional ORAC values. Standardized extracts such as MaquiBright® (35% total anthocyanins, delphinidin-rich) have been studied in Japanese ophthalmic trials for tear production in adults with dry eye symptoms. Additional preliminary research explores postprandial glucose modulation, lipid profile support, and systemic antioxidant capacity through inhibition of ROS generation.

Studied Dose 60 mg/day MaquiBright® standardized extract for dry eye; 162 mg/day delphinidin-rich extract studied for glycemic outcomes.
Active Compound Delphinidin-based anthocyanins (delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside, delphinidin-3,5-diglucoside); MaquiBright® standardized to 35% anthocyanins.

Benefits

Supports Tear Fluid Production

Standardized maqui berry extract has been studied for its ability to support natural tear fluid production in adults experiencing eye dryness associated with screen use and aging. Anthocyanin-rich preparations may help maintain ocular surface comfort.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Provides Powerful Antioxidant Defense

Maqui berry contains one of the highest natural concentrations of delphinidin anthocyanins, supporting the body's defense against oxidative stress. These polyphenols help neutralize reactive oxygen species and support cellular integrity throughout the body.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 3

Helps Maintain Healthy Glucose Response

Preliminary research suggests delphinidin-rich maqui extract may support healthy postprandial glucose response in adults with elevated fasting glucose. This may complement dietary efforts to maintain metabolic balance.

Supported by Trial 3

Supports Healthy Lipid Profiles

Anthocyanin-rich extracts including maqui berry have been studied for their role in supporting healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within the normal range, contributing to cardiovascular wellness.

Supported by Trial 1

Promotes Eye Comfort During Screen Use

Modern lifestyles place high demands on the visual system. Maqui berry's standardized anthocyanin content has been investigated for supporting eye comfort and reducing fatigue sensations associated with prolonged digital device use.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Mechanism of action

1

Lacrimal Gland Stimulation via Anthocyanins

Delphinidin glycosides from maqui appear to support lacrimal gland function, potentially via reduction of oxidative damage to glandular acinar cells and modulation of inflammatory mediators that impair tear secretion in dry eye conditions.

2

ROS Scavenging and Nrf2 Modulation

Delphinidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside demonstrates potent free radical scavenging and may activate the Nrf2/ARE antioxidant response pathway, upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes including SOD, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.

3

Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition

Maqui anthocyanins inhibit intestinal alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase enzymes in vitro, slowing carbohydrate breakdown and absorption, which may contribute to the observed postprandial glucose-modulating effects.

4

Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine Modulation

Delphinidin compounds inhibit NF-kB signaling and reduce production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha and IL-6, supporting tissue homeostasis in ocular and vascular endothelium.

Clinical trials

1
MaquiBright Dry Eye Pilot Study

Open-label pilot trial, 30 days, 60 mg/day standardized maqui berry extract

13 healthy Japanese adults with dry eye symptoms

Participants taking the standardized maqui extract showed increased tear fluid production as measured by Schirmer test compared to baseline. Subjective symptoms of eye dryness also improved, supporting use of standardized delphinidin-rich extract for ocular surface comfort.

2
Randomized Placebo-Controlled Dry Eye Trial

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 30-60 mg/day for 4 weeks

Japanese adults with eye dryness sensation

Standardized maqui extract significantly improved tear fluid production versus placebo in subjects with reduced baseline tear secretion. Improvements in dry eye-related quality of life questionnaire scores were also observed at both 30 mg and 60 mg doses.

3
Glycemic and Insulin Response Study

Crossover trial with delphinidin-rich maqui extract (Delphinol)

Adults with pre-diabetic fasting glucose

Single-dose administration of standardized maqui extract reduced postprandial glucose and insulin response after a carbohydrate-rich meal compared to placebo, suggesting acute support for healthy glycemic response.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Generally well tolerated at studied doses with no serious adverse events reported.
Mild gastrointestinal discomfort or loose stools possible at higher intakes.
May temporarily darken stool color due to high anthocyanin content.
Allergic reactions are rare but possible in individuals sensitive to berries.
Long-term safety beyond several months has not been extensively studied.

Important Drug interactions

May enhance effects of antidiabetic medications including metformin and sulfonylureas; monitor glucose.
Theoretical additive effect with antihypertensive drugs due to vascular polyphenol activity.
May interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin due to polyphenol platelet effects.
Discontinue at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery to reduce bleeding risk.

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Frequently asked questions about Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®)

What is the recommended dosage of Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®)?

The clinically studied dose for Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) is 60 mg/day MaquiBright® standardized extract for dry eye; 162 mg/day delphinidin-rich extract studied for glycemic outcomes.. Always follow product labeling and consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosing recommendations.

What is Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) used for?

Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) is studied for supports tear fluid production, provides powerful antioxidant defense, helps maintain healthy glucose response. Standardized maqui berry extract has been studied for its ability to support natural tear fluid production in adults experiencing eye dryness associated with screen use and aging.

Are there side effects from taking Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®)?

Reported potential side effects may include: Generally well tolerated at studied doses with no serious adverse events reported. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort or loose stools possible at higher intakes. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications.

Does Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) interact with medications?

Known drug interactions may include: May enhance effects of antidiabetic medications including metformin and sulfonylureas; monitor glucose. Theoretical additive effect with antihypertensive drugs due to vascular polyphenol activity. Consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you take prescription medications.

Is Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) good for eye health?

Yes, Maqui Berry (MaquiBright®) is researched for Eye Health support. Standardized maqui berry extract has been studied for its ability to support natural tear fluid production in adults experiencing eye dryness associated with screen use and aging. Anthocyanin-rich preparations may help maintain ocular surface comfort.

References(3 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Hitoe S, Tanaka J, Shimoda H. MaquiBright standardized maqui berry extract significantly increases tear fluid production and ameliorates dry eye-related symptoms in a clinical pilot trial. Panminerva Medica. 2014;Panminerva Med. 2014 Sep;56(3 Suppl 1):1-6..PubMedUsed to support: Open-label pilot showing 60 mg/day MaquiBright over 30 days increased Schirmer tear test values and improved dry eye symptom scores in adults.
  2. Yamashita SI, Suzuki N, Yamamoto K, Iio SI, Yamada T. Effects of MaquiBright on improving eye dryness and fatigue in humans: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. 2018;J Tradit Complement Med. 2018 Feb 2;9(3):172-178..PubMedUsed to support: Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial confirming standardized maqui extract improves tear fluid secretion and reduces ocular fatigue symptoms over 4 weeks.
  3. Alvarado J, Schoenlau F, Leschot A, Salgad AM, Vigil Portales P. Delphinol standardized maqui berry extract significantly lowers blood glucose and improves blood lipid profile in prediabetic individuals in three-month clinical trial. Panminerva Medica. 2016;Panminerva Med. 2016 Sep;58(3 Suppl 1):1-6..PubMedUsed to support: Three-month trial in prediabetic adults reporting standardized delphinidin-rich maqui extract reduced fasting glucose, HbA1c, and improved lipid markers versus baseline.