TimingL-Citrulline Malate

Take before training

When to take L-Citrulline Malate

30 to 60 minutes pre-workout

Citrulline raises arginine and nitric oxide levels better than arginine itself, improving blood flow during exercise. It's taken shortly before training.

Updated 2026-10-25

Best time in your day

  1. Wake
  2. Workout
  3. Breakfast
  4. Lunch
  5. Evening
  6. Workout
  7. Dinner
  8. Walk
  9. Bed
When
30–60 minutes before exercise
Food
With or without food
Typical dose
6–8 g citrulline malate or 3–6 g pure citrulline

How to take it

  1. 1Check whether it's pure citrulline or citrulline malate
  2. 2Mix it in water 30–60 minutes before training
  3. 3Use it consistently
  4. 4Combine with beetroot if desired

Watch out

Be careful if you have low blood pressure.

Keep apart from

  • Blood pressure medication
  • Nitrates and erectile dysfunction drugs

Common questions

Is it better than arginine?

Yes, it raises blood arginine more effectively.

Will it give me a pump?

Many people notice better muscle fullness.

Does it help endurance?

Results are mixed; it's more studied for reps and fatigue.

Explore further

Sources

  1. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Dietary supplements for exercise and athletic performance fact sheet for health professionals

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For general education only, not medical advice. Talk to a qualified doctor before starting or changing supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or on medication.