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Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside (flavonoid) (C28H34O15) found abundantly in citrus fruits. Its aglycone form is called hesperetin. Hesperidin is believed to play a role in plant defense. It acts as an antioxidant according to in vitro studies.[1] In human nutrition it contributes to the integrity of the blood vessels.
Various preliminary studies reveal novel pharmaceutical properties. Hesperidin reduced cholesterol[2] and blood pressure[3] in rats. In a mouse study large doses of the glucoside hesperidin decreased bone density loss.[4] Another animal study showed protective effects against sepsis.[5] Hesperitin has anti-inflammatory effects.[6][7]
Some in vitro results applied only to the aglucone form. Hesperitin also showed the ability to penetrate the blood brain barrier in an in vitro model.[8]
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