Facts

	Bioflavanoids, also known as vitamin P, are water-soluble substances and include citrin, hesperidin, rutin, flavones and flavonols.1
	Bioflavonoids were first discovered in the white peel beneath the peel of citrus fruits.
	The human body cannot produce bioflavonoids. They must be supplied through the diet.1

Functions

	Bioflavonoids are important for the proper absorption and utilisation of vitamin C. It assists in vitamin C in maintaining collagen and can be useful in treating: swollen, bleeding gums; eczema and susceptibility to hemorrhaging.1
	These substances are also used in the treatment of sports injuries as it reduces pain located in the legs and back and can relieve bruising.2
	They also increase circulation, stimulate bile production, lower cholesterol levels and prevent cataracts.1

Requirements
No Recommended Daily Allowance has been set for Vitamin P.


Signs of Deficiency
A deficiency is characterised by an increased propensity to bruise or bleed easily.

Signs of Toxicity
According to Nutrition Almanac, "bioflavonoids are reportedly non-toxic."1


Current Research

Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Flavonoids are widely used for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), according to one researcher. In a double-blind, randomised study, researchers found that when they administered bioflavonoids ( 450 mg diosmin, 50 mg hesperidin, Daflon 500 mg) in conjunction with compression therapy, it improved venous tone and elasticity.3

Ulcers
Thirty-six patients with bleeding duodenal ulcers were given bioflavonoid capsules with an orange juice-milk-gelatin mixture (4-6 ounces) every 2 hours. In four days, bleeding in all 36 patients ceased and patients' duodenal contour returned to a normal state between 12-22 days. In 23 of the 36 cases, no recurrence of bleeding occurred in 2 years.2

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