Although bioflavonoids are not true vitamins in the strictest sense, they are sometimes referred to as vitamin P. Bioflavonoids enhance the absorption of vitamin C, and the two should be taken together. There are many different bioflavonoids, including hesperetin, hesperidan, eriodictyol, quercetin, quercetrin, and rutin. The human body cannot produce bioflavonoids, so they must be supplied in the diet.

Bioflavonoids 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 and low serum calcium. Bioflavonoids act syngistically with vitamin C to protect and preserve the structure of capillaries. In addition, bioflavonoids have an antibacterial effect and promote circulation, stimulate bile production, lower cholesterol levels, and treat and prevent cataracts. When taken with vitamin C, bioflavonoids also reduce the symptoms of oral herpes.

Quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in blue-green algae and available in supplement form, may effectively treat and prevent asthma symptoms. Activated Quercetin from Source Naturals is a good source of quercetin. It also contains two other ingredients that increase its efficiacy: bromelain, and enzyme from pineapple, and vitamin C, in the nonacidic form of magnesium ascorbate. Bromelain and quercetin are synergists, and should be taken in conjunction to enhance absorption.

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Sources

The white material just beneath the peel of citrus fruits, peppers, buckwheat, and black currants contain bioflavonoids. Sources of bioflavonoids include apricots, cherries, grapefruit, grapes, lemons, oranges, prunes, and rose hips. Herbs that contain bioflavonoids include chervil, elderberries, hawthorn berry, horsetail, rose hips, and shepherd's purse.

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Comments

Extremely high doses may cause diarrhea.

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LINKS TO ONLINE STORES

Herbal Advisor: Bioflavonoids Complex Liquid

Viable Herbal Solutions: Citrus Bioflavonoids

Any Vitamins: Vitamin P - Bioflavonoids Information & Products

Herbal Advisor: Quasivitmins: Bioflavonoids

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