Naringin vs. Citrus x paradisi L. Peel Extract: An In Vivo Journey into Oxidative Stress Modulation

Citrus fruits, mainly grapefruit (Citrus x paradisi L.), are rich in bioactive compounds with potential antioxidant properties. This study investigated the antioxidant effects of naringin (NR) and ethanolic Citrus x paradisi L. peel (E) in reducing aluminum chloride (AlCl₃)-induced oxidative stress in mice. Quantitative analysis using HPLC identified optimal extraction conditions, combination ultrasound and reflux extraction (UH50), resulting in high concentrations of naringin (49.13 mg/g) and naringenin (63.99 µg/g). Mice were treated with NR and E to evaluate their effects on key markers of oxidative stress: reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT). The E effectively reduced MDA levels in blood, brain, and liver tissues, with a more substantial effect on controlling lipid peroxidation. In contrast, NR was more effective in restoring GSH levels and CAT activity, suggesting a broader enhancement of antioxidant defense. These findings provide information about specific mechanisms of NR and E and their therapeutic potential in managing oxidative stress and developing products with synergistic efficacy.