Bioflavenoids can be used as a natural remedy to effectively treat a number of health conditions. Although they are not true vitamins in the strictest sense, they are sometimes referred to as vitamin P. They are essential for the absorption of vitamin C, and the two should be taken together.
There are many different ones, including citrin, eriodictyol, flavones, hesperetin, hesperidin, quercetin, quercxetrin, and rutin. The human body cannot produce them, so they must be supplied in the diet.
Bioflavenoids are used extensively in the treatment of athletic injuries because they relieve pain, bumps, and bruises. They also reduce pain located in the legs or across the back, and lessen symptoms associated with prolonged bleeding. They act synergistically with vitamin C to protect and preserve the structure of the capillaries.
In addition, they have an antibacterial effect and promote circulation, stimulate bile production, lower cholesterol levels, and treat and prevent cataracts. When taken along with vitamin C, they also reduce the symptoms of oral herpes.
Quercetin may effectively treat and prevent asthma symptoms.
Peppers, buckwheat, black currants, and the white material just beneath the peal of citrus fruits contain bioflavenoids. Other sources include apricots, blackberries, cherries, grapefruit, grapes, lemons, oranges, plums, and prunes.
Herbs that contain them include chervil, elderberries, hawthorn berry, horsetail, rose hips, and shepherd's purse.
Extremely high doses of bioflavenoids may cause diarrhea.
This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any specific condition, nor is it intended to replace the advice of your healthcare professional.
Sources
Balch, Phyllis A., CNC. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing". Garden City, NY.: Avery Publishing Group, 2006
Ritchason, Jack, ND. "The Little Herb Encyclopedia". Pleasant Grove, UT.: Woodland Health Books, 1995
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