General Description
Bioflavonoid is a generic term used to describe biologically active
members of the group of plant-derived compounds known as flavonoids.
Bioflavonoids were first discovered in 1936 by Nobel-prize winnning
scientist and vitamin C research pioneer Albert Szent-Gyorgi, who
originally named the group of compounds "vitamin P." Since then,
over 4,000 flavonoids have been identified and classified according
to chemical structure. Bioflavonoid supplements are available as
individual flavonoids, such as quercetin (derived from onions),
and as multiple bioflavonoid complexes (derived from citrus fruits),
which are often combined with vitamin C. Compounds commonly featured
in citrus bioflavonoid supplements include hesperidin, rutin, naringin,
and quercitin.
Health Applications
- Antioxidant protection
- Circulatory health
- Inflammation
- Immune system support
Primary Uses
Most of the health benefits attributed to citrus bioflavonoids
relate to their antioxidant activity, which has been demonstrated
in numerous in vitro and animal studies.1-7
Citrus bioflavonoids are derived from fruits high in vitamin C,
and they appear to act synergistically with the vitamin to neutralize
free radicals.6 Bioflavonoids' antioxidant
properties are thought to be particularly beneficial for capillary
strength. Preliminary research suggests bioflavonoids may exert
a wide range of physiological effects, including antiulcer,7-9
antiviral,10 antitumor,11-15
antiinflammatory,12,16 analgesic,16
and cholesterol-lowering.17,18 More research
is needed before the full potential of individual bioflavonoids
can be determined.
Dosage/Toxicity
Although the optimum daily bioflavonoid intake has not been determined,
some supplement advocates recommend 2,000 to 6,000 mg of citrus
bioflavonoids per day.19 Citrus bioflavonoids
appear to have very low toxicity, and appear to be safe at this
dosage range. Research indicates that some flavonoids found in
grapefruit juice may interfere with an enzyme that breaks down
certain drugs, increasing the drugs' activity.20-21
For this reason, people taking prescription medications should
consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking bioflavonoid supplements.
| 
