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Hisperidin

Hesperidin - C28H34O15 - is a water-soluble glycoside found in oranges and lemons. Fruit juices with a high pulp content contain a high concentration of this active ingredient. What does it do and what scientific studies prove this? Hesperidin promises many health benefits: Hesperidin has a vasoprotective effect. In animal studies, hesperidin improved cholesterol levels by raising the HDL level (high-density lipoprotein = good cholesterol) and lowering the LDL level (low-density lipoprotein = bad cholesterol). Although corresponding studies on humans are still pending, there are reports that suggest a similar effect on human cholesterol levels.

In human studies, hesperidin was able to lower blood pressure and protect the heart from damage by increasing folic acid levels and reducing homeocysteine levels. In Europe, hesperidin is used to treat cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure. Other areas of application include supporting the health of capillary vessels and preventing varicose veins. In addition to its cardiovascular protective effect, hesperidin has also been shown to have a cancer-preventive effect. Hesperidin acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cell integrity, strengthens the immune system and could have a protective effect against various types of cancer such as colon, skin, bladder and esophageal cancer (1).

Hesperidin promotes joint and skin health by working with vitamin C to promote collagen formation and strengthen collagen structure. As a result, hesperidin can improve the health of the joints, spine and connective tissue. As collagen is the main component of human skin, hesperidin improves the appearance, tone and elasticity of the skin. Finally, hesperidin accelerates regeneration by interfering with arachidonic acid metabolism, thus reducing exercise-induced inflammation (2, 3). Hesperidin could also have a regulating effect on allergic reactions (4) and has a dehydrating effect (5).

Who needs it and what do deficiency symptoms look like?

All healthy adults can benefit from hesperidin supplementation (see above). Hesperidin is not an essential nutrient and therefore there are no deficiency symptoms. A recommended daily dose for hesperidin has not yet been established.

How much hesperidin should be taken?

It should be taken as recommended on the label.

Safety and side effects

Hesperidin is potentially safe and harmless for most people when used for less than 6 months. Not enough is known about the safety and harmlessness of long-term use. Possible side effects include stomach pain, stomach upset, diarrhea and headaches. Studies suggest that hesperidin may inhibit vitamin C uptake at the cellular level. However, further research is needed to verify this.

References

  1. Berkarda B, Koyuncu H, Soybir GT, Baykut F. Inhibitory effect of hesperidin on tumor initiation and promotion in mouse skin. Res Exp Med (Berl). 1998; 198:93-99.
  2. Emin JA, Oliveira AB, Lapa AJ. Pharmacological evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of a citrus bioflavonoid, hesperidin, and the isoflavonoids duartin and claussequinone in rats and mice. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1994; 46:118-122.
  3. Galati EM, Monforte MT, Kirjavainen S, et al. Biological effects of hesperidin, a citrus flavonoid (Note I): anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. Farmaco. 1994; 40:709-712.
  4. Matsuda H, Yano M, Kubo M, et al. Pharmacological study on citrus fruits. II. Anti-allergic effect of fruit of Citrus unshiu MARKOVICH (2). On flavonoid components. Yakugaku Zasshi. 1991; 111:193-198.
  5. Galati EM, Trovato A, Kirjavainen S, et al. Biological effects of hesperidin, a citrus flavonoid. (Note III): antihypertensive and diuretic activity in rat. Farmaco. 1996; 51:219-221.