amino acid Amino Acids Oral

L-Citrulline

An amino acid that increases nitric oxide production, supporting blood flow and vascular function.

Sci.2-Amino-5-(carbamoylamino)pentanoic acid citrusyn l-citrulline dl – malate 1:1 citrulline L-citrulline L-citrulline DL-malate
2 forms
Oral

About L-Citrulline

L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in the urea cycle, aiding in the removal of ammonia from the body. It is primarily known for its ability to increase nitric oxide production, which enhances blood flow and vascular function. Research has focused on its benefits in exercise performance, cardiovascular health, and erectile dysfunction.

Official resources

Fact sheets from the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements related to this ingredient group.

Dietary Supplement Label Database

Ingredient group data in NutriNav is aligned with the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD).

DSLD group id
701

At a glance

Approval status

supplement

Compare All Forms

2 forms

Compare supplement forms of L-Citrulline by absorption quality and what your body actually gets from each:

High Moderate Low
Form Absorption Steps to absorb Notes Action
Citrulline Malate (2:1)

Supports blood flow, exercise performance, and recovery

  • CAS: 54940-97-5
  • Label category: synthetic
 — — — View →
L-Citrulline DL-Malate — — — View →

Also appears on labels as

Additional names seen on supplement labels for forms of this ingredient (beyond the main aliases above).

CitMal, Citrulline Malate, CM, L-Citrulline Malate

Type: Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins. Essential amino acids must be obtained from diet, while non-essential can be synthesized by the body.

Absorption: Amino acids are generally well-absorbed. Some forms (like citrulline) are more effective than others (like arginine).

Interactions: Generally safe but high doses can cause digestive issues. Some amino acids can affect neurotransmitter levels.

Watch out for

Possible interactions or cautions — talk to a healthcare provider if unsure.

  • May interact with medications that affect blood pressure or blood flow.

Potential Benefits

Benefits associated with L-Citrulline forms:

Blood Flow (Pump) Exercise Performance Blood Pressure Improves Blood Flow & Vasodilation Enhances Exercise Performance & Reduces Fatigue Supports Cardiovascular Health

And 5 more benefits...

Potential Side Effects

Side effects associated with L-Citrulline forms:

Gastrointestinal Upset How serious: Mild Headache How serious: Mild Gastrointestinal Discomfort How serious: low Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) How serious: medium Gastrointestinal Distress How serious: low

What does the research say?

Research indicates that L-Citrulline DL-Malate can improve exercise performance, enhance recovery, and support vascular health. Studies have shown its effectiveness in increasing blood flow and reducing muscle soreness post-exercise.