Ingredient guide

Melon SOD (Extramel): Stress, Fatigue, and Evidence

Extramel is a proprietary melon juice concentrate rich in superoxide dismutase (SOD), an antioxidant enzyme. Two randomised, placebo-controlled trials at 10 mg per day (140 IU SOD) reduced perceived stress and fatigue over 4 to 12 weeks.

Moderate evidence

Written by Supplements Unpacked Editorial Team

Benefits

Two RCTs at 140 IU per day reduced perceived stress and physical/mental fatigue.
Supplies SOD, a key antioxidant enzyme.
Generally very well tolerated.

Evidence summary

What melon SOD is

Extramel is a patented juice concentrate from a special variety of cantaloupe melon, naturally rich in superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD is one of the body's main antioxidant enzymes. The melon extract is coated to protect SOD from stomach acid so it can reach the small intestine.

What the human research shows

A pilot RCT and a larger 12-week double-blind RCT both showed that 140 IU per day of SOD from Extramel significantly improved perceived stress and reduced physical/mental fatigue compared with placebo. No adverse effects were noted. We grade the evidence as moderate, supportive of stress and fatigue use.

Dosage & safety

Dosage

Studied at 10 mg of Extramel (140 IU SOD) per day for 4 to 12 weeks. Take with food. Ask your healthcare provider before regular use, especially in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Side effects

Generally very well tolerated.
No adverse effects reported in the trials reviewed.

Interactions

No well-documented serious drug interactions.

Warnings

Speak with a doctor before regular Extramel use in pregnancy or breastfeeding, since specific safety data is limited.
Look for products that specify SOD activity in International Units (IU).

Products with this ingredient

Restilen Restilen Restilen is positioned for helps maintain a positive mood, supports the maintenance of energy and vitality, supports blocking of the D2 receptor responsible for stress response. Use this as a product research starting point until the benefits, ingredients, and safety notes are reviewed. Read review

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Citations

Oral melon juice concentrate (Extramel) on stress and fatigue: pilot RCT ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
SOD-melon concentrate reduces stress and fatigue: randomised double-blind RCT ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Frequently asked questions

Does Extramel actually work for stress?

Two randomised, placebo-controlled trials at 140 IU per day showed reduced perceived stress and fatigue over 4 to 12 weeks. The evidence is moderate.

Is it safe?

Trials reported no adverse effects. As with any supplement, check with a healthcare provider if you are pregnant or have a medical condition.