Hesperidin (citrus flavonoid)
Citrus flavonoid with EMA-monograph support for chronic venous insufficiency and a body of RCTs for endothelial function.
Why
Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside concentrated in citrus peel (orange, lemon). The micronised purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF, Daflon/Diosmin 500) is a registered medicinal product in many EU countries for chronic venous insufficiency, with EMA HMPC monograph support. Beyond CVI, RCTs report improved endothelial function and modest blood pressure reductions at 500 mg/day. Diosmin is the dehydrogenated form used in most CVI products; hesperidin is the parent.
How it works
Increases venous tone via noradrenergic modulation, reduces capillary hyperpermeability, and modulates leukocyte-endothelium interaction, the latter underlying both the CVI and haemorrhoid effects. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation contributes to the systemic-circulation effect.
Expected onset · CVI symptoms within 2–4 weeks; haemorrhoid flare relief within days
How to take
Dosage
MPFF (Daflon): 500 mg twice daily for CVI. Acute haemorrhoid flare: 3 tablets twice daily for 4 days, then 2 twice daily for 3 days, then 500 mg twice daily. Hesperidin alone: 500 mg/day for endothelial / BP effect.
Timing
With meals; divided 2–3 times daily
On the label
'Diosmin' or 'micronised purified flavonoid fraction' (MPFF) for CVI use; hesperidin standardised extract for general use. Daflon is the trade name for the studied formulation.
Ideal for
Adults with chronic venous insufficiency, varicose vein discomfort, haemorrhoids, or mild hypertension exploring botanical adjuncts.
Safety
Evidence
Lyseng-Williamson 2003 Drugs review summarises consistent CVI symptom improvement (oedema, heaviness, pain) with MPFF/Daflon across multiple RCTs. Salden 2016 meta-analysis (4 RCTs) reported modest BP reduction with hesperidin supplementation. Daflon is a registered medicinal product across most of Europe, the regulatory anchor is clinical-grade.
- Lyseng-Williamson & Perry, Drugs 2003, micronised purified flavonoid fraction: a review of its use in chronic venous insufficiency, venous ulcers and haemorrhoids
- Salden et al., Am J Clin Nutr 2016, Hesperidin and blood pressure: meta-analysis of RCTs
- EMA HMPC monograph, Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (sweet orange peel) and others, used for hesperidin source
Where to get it
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