Ox bile supplements provide supplemental bile acids derived from bovine sources to support fat digestion and nutrient absorption. They are especially popular among people who have had their gallbladder removed, as the absence of a gallbladder can significantly reduce the body’s ability to concentrate and release bile for fat breakdown. The best ox bile supplements are standardized to contain meaningful levels of cholic acid bile salts, which are the active compounds responsible for emulsifying dietary fats and supporting absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Quick Comparison
Product
Dosage
Form
Best For
Rating
Double Wood Ox Bile
1,000 mg
Capsules
Best Overall
9.5/10
Horbäach Ox Bile
1,000 mg
Capsules
Best Value
9.3/10
NutriCology Ox Bile 500mg
500 mg
Capsules
Best Premium
9.4/10
Nutricost Ox Bile
500 mg
Capsules
Best Budget Pick
9.1/10
Dr. Berg Gallbladder Formula
Blend
Capsules
Best Comprehensive Formula
9.2/10
Primal Ox Bile
500 mg
Capsules
Best for Purity
9.0/10
TUDCA Bile Salts Liver Support
500 mg
Capsules
Best TUDCA + Bile Combo
8.9/10
1. Double Wood Ox Bile – Best Overall
Ox Bile Supplement for No Gallbladder (1,000mg Per Serving, 500mg per Capsule, 120 Capsules) Standardized to 45% Cholic Acid Bile Salts to Help Address Bile Salt Deficiencies by Double Wood
OX BILE SUPPLEMENTS FOR NO GALLBLADDER: When you have lost your gallbladder, a lack of bile can lead to indigestion, bloating, fatigue, and other symptoms after meals. An Ox Bile supplement standardized to contain bile salts, such as cholic acid, may help people who no longer have their gallbladder
STANDARDIZED TO 45% CHOLIC ACID BILE SALTS: It is important to choose an Ox Bile supplement standardized to contain cholic acid bile salts, as these are the active ingredient in Ox Bile that helps provide gallbladder support
OX BILE SUPPLEMENTS WITH LITTLE TO NO BILE SALTS HAVE MINIMAL EFFECT: The purpose of an Ox Bile supplement is to help replenish your body’s levels of bile salts. It is crucial to choose an Ox Bile supplement standardized to contain bile salts like cholic acid
TWO-MONTH SUPPLY: Double Wood provides 60 servings of 1,000 mg Ox Bile (120 capsules of 500 mg), enough to last a full two months
WE BOTTLE WELLNESS: At Double Wood we provide pure, potent supplements that deliver exceptional value, all backed by careful sourcing and rigorous third-party testing
Double Wood’s Ox Bile stands out by being standardized to 45% cholic acid bile salts, ensuring the supplement contains the active compounds actually needed to support fat digestion and bile salt replenishment.
Each bottle provides 120 capsules of 500mg (60 servings of 1,000mg), lasting a full two months. The standardization to 45% cholic acid is a critical differentiator — many ox bile supplements contain bile powder without meaningful bile salt content, rendering them far less effective. Double Wood manufactures in the USA, and the product is non-GMO, gluten-free, and backed by third-party testing from independent ISO-accredited laboratories. The recommended dosage is two capsules daily with a meal containing dietary fats for best absorption.
Pros:
Standardized to 45% cholic acid bile salts for verified potency
Two-month supply at 120 capsules per bottle
Third-party tested by independent ISO-accredited labs
Cons:
Capsules have a noticeable bile smell
Some users report mild headaches when first starting
Best for: Post-gallbladder removal patients who need verified bile salt content for reliable fat digestion support
2. Horbäach Ox Bile – Best Value
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Horbäach Ox Bile Supplement | 1000mg | 100 Capsules | Digestive Enzymes Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free
ABOUT OX BILE: A fluid produced by the liver that helps support your daily routine
ADVANCED OX BILE: Features 1,000 mg Ox Bile per serving in quick-release capsules for maximum support
PROFESSIONALLY CRAFTED: Our supplements use advanced sourcing to ensure purity and potency always
NATURALLY FREE OF: Gluten, Wheat, Yeast, Milk, Soy, Artificial Color & Flavor & Non-GMO
Horbäach delivers 1,000mg of ox bile per serving in quick-release capsules at a competitive price point, backed by over 40 years in the natural products industry.
Each bottle contains 100 capsules (50 servings at two capsules per dose). The quick-release capsule design allows for faster dissolution and absorption compared to standard capsules. Horbäach uses advanced sourcing techniques to ensure purity and potency. The formula is naturally free of gluten, wheat, yeast, milk, lactose, soy, artificial color, and flavor, and is non-GMO. The brand recommends starting with one capsule daily to assess tolerance before increasing to the full two-capsule dose. With over four decades in business, Horbäach has established a strong track record for affordable, quality supplements.
Pros:
Quick-release capsule design for faster absorption
Free from all major allergens and artificial ingredients
Competitive pricing from an established 40+ year brand
Cons:
Does not specify cholic acid standardization percentage
100 capsules provides only 50 servings at full dose
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable ox bile supplement from an established brand
3. NutriCology Ox Bile 500mg – Best Premium
NutriCology Ox Bile 500 mg – Supports Fat Digestion – Delivers 500 mg Concentrated Bile Salts per Serving – Hypoallergenic & Vegetarian – 180 Servings – 180 Capsules
Fat Digestion Support: NutriCology Ox Bile 500 mg provides concentrated bile salts to support normal fat digestion and daily digestive wellness*
Nutrient Absorption: Supports natural absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and healthy intestinal motility for overall digestive function*
Concentrated Bile Salts: Delivers bovine bile to complement the body’s own bile production and support dietary fat breakdown*
Highest Purity Standards: This supplement is free from gluten, dairy, soy, corn, nuts, egg, shellfish, fish, sesame and yeast
Solutions Backed by Science: Allergy Research Group and its family of brands—Metabolic Maintenance, MethylPro, Nutricology and Optimox—have delivered trusted supplements for more than 45 years
NutriCology (by Allergy Research Group) delivers pharmaceutical-grade concentrated bile salts in a hypoallergenic formula, making it the top choice for those with multiple sensitivities or who need practitioner-level quality.
Each bottle contains 180 vegetarian capsules providing 500mg of concentrated bovine bile per capsule, offering a full six-month supply at one capsule daily. NutriCology is part of the Allergy Research Group family of brands, which has delivered trusted supplements for over 45 years. The formula meets the highest purity standards — free from gluten, dairy, soy, corn, nuts, egg, shellfish, fish, sesame, and yeast. The hydroxypropyl methylcellulose capsules are vegetarian-friendly. This product is frequently recommended by functional medicine practitioners.
Pros:
180 capsules provide outstanding supply longevity
Hypoallergenic — free from nine common allergens
Practitioner-recommended quality from Allergy Research Group
Cons:
Premium pricing per bottle
500mg per capsule may require two capsules for higher-dose needs
Best for: People with food sensitivities or allergies who need a hypoallergenic, practitioner-grade ox bile supplement
4. Nutricost Ox Bile – Best Budget Pick
Nutricost Ox Bile Capsules 500mg Per Serving (120 Capsules) – Gluten Free & Non-GMO
500mg of Ox Bile Per Capsule
120 Capsules Per Bottle, 120 Servings
Non-GMO & Gluten Free
High Quality & 3rd Party Tested
Made in a NSF Certified, GMP Complaint, FDA Registered Facility
Nutricost offers 120 capsules of 500mg ox bile at one of the lowest price points in the category, manufactured in a GMP-compliant, FDA-registered facility in the USA.
Each bottle provides 120 servings at the 500mg dose, or 60 servings if taking two capsules daily for a 1,000mg dose. The formula is non-GMO, gluten-free, and sourced from USA ingredients. Nutricost maintains clean manufacturing standards with lab testing for quality assurance. The capsules use a straightforward formula of desiccated ox bile in a gelatin capsule with rice flour and magnesium stearate. For those needing a lower dose, Nutricost also offers a 125mg option with 240 capsules for more precise dosing control.
Pros:
Lowest price per capsule in the ox bile category
120 capsules per bottle for extended supply
GMP-compliant, FDA-registered manufacturing facility
Cons:
No bile salt standardization specified
Basic formula without additional digestive support ingredients
Best for: Cost-conscious consumers who want a simple, affordable ox bile supplement from a reputable brand
5. Dr. Berg Gallbladder Formula Extra Strength – Best Comprehensive Formula
Dr. Berg Gallbladder Formula Extra Strength – with Ox Bile Powder and Conjugated Bile Acid – Digestive Enzymes Proprietary Blend – Full 45-Day Supply – 90 Vegetable Capsules
𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗗𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗦𝗨𝗣𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 – This gallbladder formula is made with ox bile powder, conjugated bile acid, and a proprietary blend of digestive enzymes. Recommended 2 capsules per day with a meal. Includes 90 capsules (45-day supply).
𝗨𝗦𝗔 𝗚𝗠𝗣 𝗖𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗙𝗜𝗘𝗗 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗨𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 – Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are located in the US and are staffed with highly trained individuals who formulate superior products. Being certified under US laws and regulations (GMP Certified), these facilities are uncompromising when it comes to cleanliness and quality control.
𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗥𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗦 – We’re sorry to say it, but if you’re looking for cheap, you’re in the wrong place. We search far and wide, domestic and international, to provide high-quality ingredients for which your body will thank you. Unfortunately, getting the best ingredients from domestic and international farms can come at a higher-than-normal cost. If quality, satisfaction, and results are essential to you, you’re in the right place!
𝗪𝗛𝗬 𝗪𝗘’𝗥𝗘 𝗗𝗜𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗧 – Also known as The Knowledge Doc, Dr. Berg has spent most of his life researching and providing natural solutions to everyday health problems. This extensive research and thousands of hours working with patients are what sets us apart from other brands, as it has allowed us to create proprietary blends you can’t get anywhere else.
𝟯𝟬-𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗚𝘂𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗲 – If for any reason you’re not happy with the results you experience within the first 30 days, we’re happy to give you a full refund! Send us a message, and the refund will be processed as long as it’s requested within 30 days of purchase.
Dr. Berg’s formula takes a comprehensive approach by combining ox bile extract with conjugated bile acids, betaine HCl, pancreatin, pepsin, and botanical ingredients for complete digestive enzyme support.
Each bottle contains 90 vegetable capsules providing a 45-day supply at two capsules per serving. The multi-ingredient formula addresses multiple aspects of digestion simultaneously — ox bile and conjugated bile acids handle fat emulsification, betaine HCl supports stomach acid production, and pancreatin and pepsin help break down proteins and other nutrients. The botanical additions of choline, stoneroot, and slippery elm provide liver and gallbladder support. Manufactured in GMP-certified facilities in the USA. This is a complete gallbladder support system rather than a standalone ox bile supplement.
Pros:
Multi-enzyme formula addresses comprehensive digestion
Includes betaine HCl for stomach acid support
Botanical ingredients provide additional liver and gallbladder support
Cons:
Proprietary blend does not disclose individual ingredient amounts
Premium price point for the 90-capsule bottle
Best for: People with multiple digestive issues who want comprehensive enzyme and bile support in one supplement
6. Primal Ox Bile – Best for Purity
Primal Ox Bile (120 Capsules, 500 MG per Serving) – Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Third-Party Tested
Digestive Support: Primal’s Ox Bile Capsules offer support for your digestive system, helping you empower your health.
Generous Supply: With 120 capsules per bottle, this supplement provides an ample and convenient supply, allowing consistent integration into your daily health routine.
500mg Per Serving: Each serving contains 500mg of ox bile, delivering a standardized amount for those looking to incorporate this component into their wellness regimen.
Manufacturing Excellence: Crafted in an NSF Certified GMP Compliant facility, Primal’s commitment to quality is evident in every capsule, meeting the highest industry standards.
Third-Party Validation: Rigorous third-party testing by independent ISO-accredited laboratories ensures the purity and quality of each batch, offering peace of mind to both gym-goers and health-conscious individuals. Elevate your digestive wellness with Primal’s Ox Bile Capsules.
Primal delivers 500mg of desiccated ox bile per capsule with a focus on manufacturing excellence, producing each batch in an NSF Certified GMP Compliant facility with rigorous third-party testing.
Each bottle provides 120 capsules (120 servings at 500mg, or 60 servings at the 1,000mg dose). What sets Primal apart is their commitment to verification — each batch undergoes testing by independent ISO-accredited laboratories to confirm quality and purity. The supplement is designed for both gym enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals looking to optimize their digestive wellness. The formula uses a clean ingredient profile of desiccated ox bile in a gelatin capsule with rice flour, magnesium stearate, and silica.
Pros:
NSF Certified GMP manufacturing facility
Third-party tested by independent ISO-accredited labs
120-capsule supply for long-term use
Cons:
No bile salt standardization percentage listed
Newer brand with less market history
Best for: Quality-focused consumers who prioritize NSF certification and independent third-party testing
7. TUDCA Bile Salts Liver Support – Best TUDCA + Bile Combo
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TUDCA Bile Salts Liver Support Supplement, 500mg Servings, Liver and Gallbladder Cleanse Supplement (60 Capsules, 250mg) Genuine Bile Acid TUDCA with Strong Bitter Taste by Double Wood
BILE SALT FOR LIVER HEALTH: TUDCA supports healthy levels of liver enzymes
BECOME YOUR BEST SELF: TUDCA helps support your overall health so you feel and operate at your best
MOST POWERFUL BILE SALT FOR LIVER AND GALLBLADDER HEALTH: Studies show TUDCA may help optimize the content of gallbladder bile
OTHER HEALTH BENEFITS: TUDCA is most known for liver health but also supports intestinal, immune, gallbladder, and thyroid healthManufactured in the USA from Globally Sourced Ingredients: Double Wood’s TUDCA pills are manufactured and tested for microbes / heavy metals right here in the USA from Globally Sourced Ingredients
WE BOTTLE WELLNESS: At Double Wood, we provide pure, potent supplements that deliver exceptional value, all backed by careful sourcing and rigorous third-party testing
This formula combines 500mg of TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) with bile salts for a dual-action approach to liver health, bile flow, and gallbladder support.
TUDCA is a water-soluble bile acid that has been extensively studied for its liver-protective properties and its ability to improve bile flow. Unlike standard ox bile supplements that simply replace bile, TUDCA actively supports the liver’s own bile production pathways and has shown hepatoprotective effects in clinical research. The supplement supports liver cleanse and detox processes while providing the bile salts needed for fat digestion. This combination makes it unique in the ox bile category — it addresses both the supply of bile and the health of the organ that produces it.
Pros:
TUDCA provides clinically studied liver-protective benefits
Dual-action support for both bile supply and liver health
Supports overall bile flow improvement beyond simple replacement
Cons:
TUDCA research is still emerging for some applications
Higher price point than standard ox bile supplements
Best for: Those who want both bile replacement and active liver protection in a single supplement
How to Choose the Best Ox Bile Supplement
The most critical factor when selecting an ox bile supplement is bile salt standardization. Look for products that specify their cholic acid content — standardized to 40-45% cholic acid bile salts is the gold standard. Ox bile supplements without meaningful bile salt content provide mostly inactive material and will have minimal effect on fat digestion. If a product does not disclose its bile salt standardization, it may contain low-quality or unstandardized bile powder.
Dosage requirements vary significantly by individual need. People who have had their gallbladder removed typically need 500-1,000mg of ox bile per meal containing fat. Those with sluggish bile production but an intact gallbladder may benefit from lower doses of 125-500mg. Start with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually — taking too much ox bile can cause loose stools or diarrhea. Always take ox bile with meals, never on an empty stomach.
Consider whether you want a standalone ox bile supplement or a comprehensive formula. Standalone ox bile is ideal if you already take digestive enzymes separately or only need bile support. Comprehensive formulas like Dr. Berg’s Gallbladder Formula combine ox bile with other digestive enzymes (pancreatin, pepsin, betaine HCl) for broader digestive coverage, which may be more convenient but also more expensive.
Quality certifications to look for include GMP manufacturing, third-party testing, and NSF certification. Since ox bile is an animal-derived ingredient, sourcing quality matters. Premium products source from grass-fed cattle and test for purity and contaminants. Avoid products with excessive fillers, artificial colors, or unnecessary additives that can compromise the supplement’s effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ox bile and what does it do?
Ox bile is bile derived from bovine (cow) sources that contains bile acids, bile salts, and other compounds identical in function to human bile. In the body, bile is produced by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the small intestine to emulsify dietary fats — breaking them into smaller droplets that digestive enzymes can process. Ox bile supplements replicate this function for people whose natural bile production or storage is compromised, particularly after gallbladder removal.
How much ox bile should I take daily?
Most ox bile supplements recommend 500-1,000mg per serving taken with meals. People without a gallbladder often need 500-1,000mg with each fat-containing meal. Start with the lowest dose (250-500mg) and increase gradually to assess tolerance. Taking too much can cause loose stools or diarrhea. Some individuals may need to adjust their dose based on the fat content of individual meals — a higher-fat meal may require more ox bile than a lighter meal.
When is the best time to take ox bile?
Ox bile should always be taken with meals, ideally at the start of a meal containing dietary fat. Never take ox bile on an empty stomach, as it can cause stomach irritation and nausea. For people without a gallbladder, taking ox bile with each fat-containing meal throughout the day provides the best results. Some people find that taking it with their largest or fattiest meal of the day provides the most noticeable benefit.
Are there any side effects of ox bile supplements?
The most common side effect is loose stools or diarrhea, which usually indicates the dose is too high. Reducing the dose typically resolves this issue. Some people experience mild stomach discomfort, nausea, or cramping when first starting ox bile supplementation. Headaches have been reported occasionally. The capsules often have a strong, unpleasant smell characteristic of bile — this is normal and does not indicate a quality problem. Those with bile duct obstructions or active liver disease should not take ox bile without medical supervision.
Do I need ox bile if I still have my gallbladder?
Most people with a functioning gallbladder produce sufficient bile for normal digestion and do not need ox bile supplementation. However, some conditions — including sluggish bile production, bile sludge, liver conditions, and certain digestive disorders like SIBO — can reduce bile effectiveness even with a gallbladder present. If you experience consistent difficulty digesting fatty foods, bloating after meals, or fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies, ox bile may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
What is the difference between ox bile and TUDCA?
Ox bile is desiccated whole bile containing a mix of bile acids, bile salts, and other compounds, primarily used to replace or supplement bile for fat digestion. TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a specific, purified bile acid with unique liver-protective properties — it supports healthy bile flow, protects liver cells from damage, and has been studied for its role in reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress. TUDCA is more targeted toward liver health, while ox bile is more directly focused on fat digestion. Some supplements combine both for complementary benefits.