Definition: Bioflavonoids (also referred to as flavonoids) comprise a group of plant pigments that provide excellent cellular protection by modifying the action of allergens, carcinogens, and viruses. Bioflavonoids are responsible for giving plants and their blossoms color pigment and are also found in the white material located just beneath the peel of citrus fruits. While they are not technically vitamins, bioflavonoids are sometimes referred to as vitamin P. They are remarkable free radical scavengers and include hesperetin, hesperidin, quercetin, eriodictyon, and rutin. Because the body cannot produce bioflavonoids, they must be supplied through diet or supplementation.

Applications: Bruising, bleeding (including heavy menstrual), high cholesterol, cataracts, oral herpes, allergies, asthma, liver disease and gum disease.

Recommendations: Bioflavonoids are usually combined with other vitamins such as vitamin C and are generally taken in capsule or tablet from. Some citrus derived powders that can be mixed with liquid are also available. When buying any vitamin product, make sure that it contains adequate amounts of bioflavonoids.