Bioflavonoids are a class of water-soluble plant pigments found in fruits, vegetables, and certain beverages that have antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells against the damaging effects of reactive chemicals known as free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage.
Hesperidin is a bioflavonoid that is found in citrus fruit. It offers similar nutritional support to other bioflavonoids, like quercetin. It acts to support the vascular system by strengthening the capillaries and it also acts as an antioxidant. In research appearing in Chicago Medicine (March 7, 1964), 94 patients who had undergone menopause (36 surgically and 58 physiologically) were given a supplement containing 50 mg of hesperidin complex,150 mg. of hesperidin methyl chalcone and 200 mg of vitamin C. The control group was given calcium carbonate, salicylamide and an estrogenic substance. The group receiving the vitamin C/bioflavonoid supplement experienced more relief from hot flashes than the control group. It is possible the mechanism for the vitamin C/bioflavonoid supplement in improving hot flashes involves strengthening the capillary bed and reducing vasodilation.
