A-Z circulatory support Articles

Hesperidin is one of the major constituents found abundantly in citrus fruits. It is a bioflavonoid that is believed to play a beneficial role in several different body systems. Supplementation with hesperidin has been shown to have many benefits for overall health, let's explore.

Key Health Benefits of Hesperidin

Antioxidant Properties For Brain and Liver Health

This is an antioxidant that can help to protect the body against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules with an unpaired electron that are extremely reactive, and damage surrounding cell membranes, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients. We encounter free radicals through environmental exposures, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, processed foods, and ultraviolet radiation from the sun (UV rays). 

The antioxidant properties of hesperidin have been found to especially protect neurons in the body against oxidative damage. Protecting neurons allows this nutrient to help protect the brain cells and to maintain healthy mental functioning. The potent antioxidant ability provided by hesperidin also allows it to protect the liver against damage caused by toxic chemicals and pollutants.

Circulation and Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Hesperidin

One study found that people with extreme cold sensitivity can be treated with oral supplementation. It was found that this bioflavonoid promoted dilation of the blood vessels along the exterior of the body, allowing for a better circulation of heat. Another study found that this nutrient promotes the production of nitric oxide (NO), a substance that has been shown to relax the blood vessels. Dilation of the blood vessels can help to reduce blood pressure. When combined with diosmin, hesperidin is commonly used to treat hemorrhoids and leg ulcers. It has been found to reduce the inflammatory response in chronic venous insufficiency.

Glucosyl Hesperidin – Protecting Against Arteriosclerosis

A particular sub-type called glucosyl hesperidin has been shown to lower triglyceride levels in people with excessively high levels in their blood. It has also been shown to slightly lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in those with imbalanced cholesterol levels. Both of these can help to reduce the risk of developing arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

Menopause Benefits of Hesperidin

Many healthcare practitioners use hesperidin to help with the symptoms of menopause. When combined with vitamin C, this supplement has been shown to help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes. It has also been found to have a gentle sedative action, which can help to relieve the mental-emotional symptoms of menopause, particularly anxiety. One study found that using this supplement also reduces the amount of bone density loss during aging, thus potentially helping to prevent osteoporosis.

Healthy Cell Production

In recent research, a metabolite of hesperidin called hesperetin has been shown to prevent abnormal cell growth and also to prevent hormone production. This may also be how it reduces menopausal symptoms, although that hasn’t yet been established.

Hesperidin Supplement Varieties

Hesperidin is often found in combination with other nutrients for specific functions. It can be found in formulas for detox, circulation, cardiovascular and menopause. It is often combined with vitamin C and diosmin. 

For the treatment of hemorrhoids, 150mg (with 1350mg of diosmin) twice daily for four days, followed by 100mg of hesperidin (with 900mg of diosmin) twice daily for three days. Maintenance treatment for hemorrhoids is 50mg (with 450mg diosmin) twice daily for 3 months. 

To treat leg ulcers caused by poor blood circulation, the dose is 100mg of hesperidin (with 900mg diosmin) daily for up to 2 months.

For other treatment approaches, follow the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer.

The tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) is commonly known as “horse chestnut” because of its large seeds that resemble chestnuts (although they are not related species). Extracts from the seeds have been used to treat chronic venous insufficiency.

Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency

This condition is caused by a blockage or valve failure in one or more of the major veins, most commonly in the legs. Since the blood cannot properly return to the heart, it pools in the veins, especially when movement is restricted, as in periods of prolonged standing. Thus, the veins in the legs are constantly filled with blood and can begin to bulge, resulting in a condition known as varicose veins. It can also cause swelling and purple discolouration of the legs, thickened skin on the feet and ankles, and even ulcers of the skin when the stasis is prolonged. This type of venous stasis also causes other venous conditions like hemorrhoids.

Other Health Benefits of Horse Chestnut

In addition to being effective in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, this herb has also long been used in the treatment of:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Cough
• Enlarged prostate
• Eczema
• Menstrual pain

It is also used in Bach flower remedies, and when the bud is used, it is called “chestnut bud”, whereas when the flowers are used it is called “white chestnut”.

Finding Safe Horse Chestnut Supplements

Young, fresh nuts contain some alkaloid saponins and glucosides, which can be poisonous when eaten. Be sure to only supplement with processed extracts from trusted sources. 

Extracts are standardized to the percentage of the active ingredient called aescin that they contain. Optimal aescin content is considered to be 17% or greater for supplementation at the recommended dose of 300mg two times daily. These extracts are generally found in capsule form either alone or in combination with other vitamins and herbs for vein health.

Potential Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Standardized horse chestnut seed extract products are likely safe for most people when used short term. Only use products which have had esculin, a toxic substance, removed. Horse chestnut products can sometimes cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, stomach upset, and itching.

Raw horse chestnut seed, bark, flower, and leaf contain esculin and are unsafe to use. Signs of esculin poisoning include stomach upset, muscle twitching, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and paralysis. Seek immediate medical attention if you've accidentally consumed raw horse chestnut. 

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if horse chestnut is safe. Some people are allergic to horse chestnut