L-Citrulline is a non-essential alpha-amino acid first isolated from watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), from which it derives its name. It plays a key role in the urea cycle and serves as a precursor to L-Arginine, which in turn is converted to nitric oxide.
In the sports nutrition industry, L-Citrulline has become a preferred ingredient over L-Arginine due to its superior oral bioavailability and sustained nitric oxide production. It is commercially manufactured through microbial fermentation to produce the natural L-form in high purity. L-Citrulline's neutral taste and excellent solubility make it ideal for powder, capsule, and beverage applications.
