Best Citrulline Malate Supplements Review (2025)
Reading Time: 9 minutes Citrulline Malate has become one of the most commonly used dietary supplements in the fitness and wellness world due to its ability to increase workout effectiveness, enhance athletic performance, delay fatigue, and support muscle recovery.
As a combination of the amino acid L-citrulline and malic acid, this supplement plays a critical role in boosting nitric oxide production, promoting better blood flow, and improving endurance.
With the growing demand for citrulline malate, the market now offers countless options, making it overwhelming to identify the best citrulline malate supplements that truly deliver results.
Drawing from over a decade of personal experience and extensive research, I have tested numerous standalone citrulline malate products and pre-workout supplements containing citrulline.
For those new to citrulline supplements, it’s important to understand their composition and benefits.
L-citrulline, naturally found in watermelon rinds, is the amino acid responsible for increasing nitric oxide levels and improving oxygen delivery to muscles.
Malic acid complements L-citrulline by supporting energy production through the recycling of lactic acid, making the combination a powerhouse for performance enhancement.
Based on my personal experience and educational expertise, I’ve identified the top products that deliver on their claims.
Keep reading to discover my recommendations for the best citrulline malate supplements that can elevate your fitness journey and maximize your results.
What Are Citrulline Malate Supplements?
Citrulline malate supplements are a combination of L-citrulline, an amino acid, and malic acid, a compound that plays a key role in energy production.
This pairing creates a synergistic supplement designed to support physical performance, improve muscle recovery, and reduce fatigue during intense exercise.
Citrulline malate is most commonly found in the following forms:
- Powder: The most versatile and cost-effective option, allowing users to customize their dosage.
- Capsules: Convenient for those who prefer a pre-measured dose.
- Pre-Workout Blends: Frequently included in pre-workout formulas alongside other performance-enhancing ingredients.
By incorporating citrulline malate supplements into your routine, you can experience improved workout performance, faster recovery, and sustained endurance.
When combined, L-citrulline and malic acid offer benefits beyond what each compound provides individually.
This synergy enhances athletic performance, supports recovery, and may help users sustain higher energy levels during exercise.
Here is more information on the compound in citrulline malate (l-citrulline and malic acid):
L-Citrulline: The Nitric Oxide Booster
L-citrulline is naturally found in foods like watermelon and cucumber but is more effective when consumed in supplement form due to its concentrated dosage.
In the body, L-citrulline is converted into L-arginine, which then boosts nitric oxide (NO) production. Nitric oxide improves blood flow by relaxing blood vessels, enhancing oxygen delivery, and supporting endurance during workouts.
Malic Acid: The Energy Enhancer
Malic acid, derived from fruits like apples, is an organic compound involved in the Krebs cycle, a critical process for producing energy at the cellular level.
In citrulline malate, malic acid enhances energy recycling, helping muscles recover more efficiently and combatting fatigue caused by the buildup of lactic acid.
The Importance of cGMP, NSF, and Third-Party Testing
When selecting a citrulline malate supplement, looking for certifications like cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices), NSF Certified, or labels indicating third-party testing is crucial for ensuring the product’s safety, quality, and effectiveness.
These designations provide confidence that you’re purchasing a supplement free from harmful contaminants and accurately labeled for its ingredients.
Since dietary supplements, including citrulline malate, are not as tightly regulated as pharmaceuticals, these certifications ensure you’re getting a high-quality product that works as intended.
They also help avoid potential health risks associated with adulterated or mislabeled products.
By selecting a citrulline malate supplement with cGMP, NSF, or third-party testing certifications, you can confidently support your fitness goals while prioritizing your safety and well-being.
cGMP Certification: Adherence to Quality Standards
Supplements manufactured in facilities with cGMP certification comply with stringent quality standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
These guidelines ensure that:
- The manufacturing process follows strict protocols for cleanliness, consistency, and quality control.
- Ingredients meet safety standards and are properly documented.
- The final product contains what the label claims, with no unwanted contaminants.
Choosing a supplement from a cGMP-certified facility significantly reduces the risk of consuming a poorly manufactured or mislabeled product.
NSF Certification: Independent Validation of Purity
The NSF Certified for Sport® label ensures that the supplement has undergone rigorous testing to verify its purity and quality.
This is especially valuable for athletes, as NSF certification confirms that the product is free of banned substances and contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or harmful additives.
NSF certification also indicates that the supplement:
- Contains the exact ingredients and dosages listed on the label.
- Has been independently tested to meet high safety standards.
This is essential for professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts who need trustworthy products to support their goals.
Third-Party Testing: An Added Layer of Assurance
Supplements labeled as third-party tested are analyzed by independent laboratories to verify their quality, potency, and safety. Third-party testing confirms that:
- The supplement contains the advertised ingredients at the claimed concentrations.
- It is free from contaminants like toxins, allergens, and banned substances.
- There is no cross-contamination during the manufacturing process.
Look for seals from reputable third-party testing organizations such as Informed Choice, Labdoor, or USP Verified for an added layer of trust.
Best Citrulline Supplements (2025)
Since most people only use citrulline malate before workouts, you can use either a pure citrulline malate supplement or a pre workout supplement that contains an adequate amount of citrulline.
Here are the best citrulline supplements:
1.) PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder
I have tried numerous citrulline malate supplements and supplements containing citrulline malate, and in my opinion, the best citrulline supplement is PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder.
Compared to other options, I choose PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder because it is cost-effective and consistent.
PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder costs $25.97 for 500 grams.
So, for less than $30, you can get approximately 60-80 workouts worth of citrulline malate powder from PrimaForce.
Along with that, PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder is also lab-tested for potency and purity.
According to its website, PrimaForce only uses pharmaceutical-grade and clinically-tested ingredients in its products.
Another reason that I like PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder compared to other brands is that their product is easy and convenient to use.
The PrimaForce Citrulline Powder comes in a comfortable container and has an easy-to-use scoop, so you can easily choose the dosage you want.
Overall, PrimaForce Citrulline Malate Powder is a quality product that I have used in the past and will continue to use in the future.
Last update on 2025-04-16 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
2.) BulkSupplements L-Citrulline DL-Malate 2:1 Powder
Although PrimaForce is my favorite citrulline malate supplement, BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder is not far behind.
In fact, BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder was the first citrulline malate supplement I used.
Here are some facts about BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder:
- Produced as a Clean & Pure Powder
- Contains No Fillers
- Comes in a Factory Sealed Foil Zip Pouch
- Lab Tested for Verification
- Guaranteed Purity
If you want to buy BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder, the most cost-effective option is purchasing 2.2 pounds for $38.96.
My primary complaint with BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder is that their foil package is a bit more difficult to deal with.
Since I travel often and like to bring supplements with me, it is more difficult for me to transport BulkSupplements Citrulline Malate Powder than the PrimaForce Citrulline supplement.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
3.) The Genius Brand Pre
I believe The Genius Brand Pre Workout is the best stim-free pre workout supplement, and an important part of this supplement is its 6 grams of citrulline malate.
The Genius Pre-Workout also contains Beta-Alanine and other beneficial ingredients, which makes it a great option before workouts.
If you are looking for a stimulant-free pre workout supplement that can help you workout longer and more intensely, the Genius Pre Workout is a great option!
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
4.) Pre Jym
Pre Jym is one of the best pre workout supplements, and it contains 6 grams of citrulline malate, making it one of the best citrulline malate supplements to take before a workout.
Along with citrulline malate, Pre Jym also contains BCAAs, creatine, Beta-Alanine, betaine, and beetroot extract.
Pre Jym contains 300mg of caffeine which is great for some people but is far too much for many others.
Pre Jym is a great citrulline malate supplement to take before exercising, but only if you can tolerate and take advantage of the caffeine content.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
5.) Zazzee L-Citrulline Malate Vegan Capsules
If you would prefer to take citrulline malate capsules instead of a citrulline malate powder, Zazzee L-Citrulline Malate Vegan Capsules is the best citrulline malate supplement in capsule form.
Zazzee L-Citrulline Malate Vegan Capsules contain 750mg per serving and are made with vegan capsules.
Also, the Zazzee L-Citrulline Malate Vegan Capsules do not contain any binders or fillers.
Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
Benefits of Citrulline Malate Supplements
Several studies demonstrate the potential advantages of citrulline malate supplementation:
- Aerobic Endurance: A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that citrulline malate may promote aerobic energy production, improving oxygen delivery to muscles and supporting sustained endurance.
- Anaerobic Performance & Recovery: Research from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research suggests that citrulline malate may enhance high-intensity anaerobic performance with short rest periods and help reduce post-exercise muscle soreness.
However, it’s important to note that not all studies produce the same results, highlighting the need for individualized experimentation when using this supplement.
Improved Athletic Performance
Although research results are inconclusive, citrulline malate is one of the best supplements for athletic performance because it increases the body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, which can boost energy and help you push harder during your workouts, leading to better results.
Reduce Muscle Fatigue & Soreness
Citrulline malate supplements can also reduce muscle soreness and fatigue.
During exercise, waste products such as ammonia and lactic acid can build up in the muscles, leading to soreness and fatigue.
Citrulline malate helps remove these waste products, helping you to recover faster.
Improved Muscle Growth
Another potential benefit of citrulline malate supplements is enhancing muscle growth.
By increasing protein synthesis and reducing muscle breakdown, citrulline supplements can help your muscles grow stronger and recover faster, leading to better results.
Improved Blood Pressure
Citrulline malate supplements can also positively affect heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Overall, citrulline supplements offer a range of benefits for athletic performance, muscle growth and recovery, heart health, and overall wellness.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to improve your performance or a fitness enthusiast looking to support your health and wellness, citrulline malate supplements can provide valuable support.
How to Use Citrulline Malate Supplements
While citrulline malate supplements show promising results for enhancing exercise performance and recovery, they are not universally classified as unequivocally performance-enhancing supplements.
Research findings vary, with some studies highlighting notable benefits and others showing limited or no effects.
Optimal Dosage and Timing
Most research recommends taking 6-8 grams of citrulline malate approximately 15-30 minutes before workouts, especially for resistance training or high-intensity endurance activities like cycling.
This dosage appears to provide the most consistent benefits for enhancing blood flow, nutrient delivery, and muscle recovery.
As l-citrulline and l-arginine play a role in the sleep-wake cycle, taking citrulline malate before bed may have certain benefits. However, no scientific evidence clearly supports this theory.
In my opinon, the best way to use citrulline malate supplements is by consuming approximately 6-8 grams around 15-30 minutes before workouts.
- Limited research indicates that a lower dosage of citrulline (1.2 grams/day combined with 1.2 grams of l-arginine) may also improve exercise performance.
- However, most research has been conducted on citrulline malate dosages of 6-8 grams before workouts.
Final Thoughts: Should You Use Citrulline Supplements?
Citrulline malate supplementation offers promising benefits for improving exercise endurance, enhancing blood flow, and reducing recovery time after intense training sessions.
However, while research highlights its potential, the scientific evidence remains somewhat inconsistent, and individual results may vary.
That said, citrulline malate is considered a safe supplement for most individuals when taken in appropriate dosages.
Many users, including myself, have experienced significant success using citrulline malate to boost workout performance and recovery.
If you’re interested in trying it, you have several options:
- Pure citrulline malate supplements for precise dosing.
- Pre-workout supplements containing citrulline malate as part of their formula.
When used correctly—ideally 6-8 grams before workouts—citrulline malate can provide a noticeable boost to your training sessions and recovery, helping you push harder and achieve better results.
Give it a try and see if it elevates your workouts to the next level!
