BIOFLAVONOIDS

Bioflavonoids are broken down into categories, though the issue of how to divide them is not universally agreed upon. Bioflavonoids include isoflavones, anthocyanidins, flavonols, flavans, flavones, and flavanones. Some of the most popular flavonoids, such as genistein and quercetin, can be considered subcategories of categories. Although all bioflavonois are have similar structures, their functions are substantially different. Bioflavonoids also include hesperidin, rutin, citrus flavonoids, and a variety of other supplements.

Many flavonoids promote health by strengthening capillaries and other connective tissue in the body. Others function as anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, and antiviral agents. Quercetin, one of the more comom bioflavonoids, may even have possible health benefits for those suffering from diabetes. Rutin and several other flavonoids may also protect blood vessels.

Some flavonoids, such as quercetin, act at effective antioxidants inhibiting agents such as LDL (bad cholestoral) from causing oxidative damage to the body. Others, such as the anthocyanidins (found in bilberry, purple cabbage, and grapes) possibly protect the the eyes from developing cataracts. Scientists and researchers are currently studying isflavones bioflavonoids being studied to explore how they migh be used to fight cancer.

Main Health Benefits

• Chronic venous insufficiency (rutin)
• Edema (water retention) (coumarin, hydroxyethylrutosides)
• Hepatitis (catechin)

• Bruising
• Cold sores
• Diabetes (bilberry)
• Dysmenorrhea (rutin plus vitamin B3 [niacin] and vitamin C)
• Edema (water retention) (diosmin and hesperidin combination)
• Gingivitis (periodontal disease) (in combination with vitamin C)
• Hemorrhoids (hydroxyethylrutosides derived from rutin)
• Ménière’s disease (hydroxyethylrutosides)
• Retinopathy (bilberry)
• Skin ulcers (diosmin, hesperidin)