Main Plant Source: The Citrus Family (Rutaceae)
The most significant and well-known source of diosmin is the citrus family, scientifically known as Rutaceae. While diosmin is present in small amounts throughout citrus fruits, it is most highly concentrated in the peel, or rind, particularly in the white, spongy layer called the albedo. This is especially true for oranges and lemons, which are the main commercial sources for diosmin and its related flavonoid, hesperidin. For example, the peels of sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis) and tangerines (Citrus reticulata) are rich reserves for these beneficial compounds. Due to the low natural concentration of diosmin in citrus, commercial production often involves converting the more abundant flavonoid, hesperidin, into diosmin through a dehydrogenation process.
Other Notable Plant Sources
Beyond citrus, a few other plant species contain diosmin or its precursors, though often in much lower concentrations.
- Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa): Historically, figwort was the original source from which diosmin was first isolated in 1925. While no longer the primary commercial source, it remains an important historical reference for the compound.
- Buchu (Agathosma betulina): A medicinal shrub native to South Africa, buchu contains flavonoids including diosmin and rutin. The leaves of this plant have been traditionally used to make teas for urinary tract ailments, and modern science has confirmed the presence of diosmin.
- Rutin-Rich Plants: Diosmin is sometimes derived from rutin, another flavonoid found in a variety of plants. Therefore, plants rich in rutin, such as buckwheat and apples, are tangentially related to diosmin synthesis, though they don't contain diosmin directly.
Bioflavonoid Breakdown: Diosmin vs. Hesperidin
Diosmin is often discussed alongside hesperidin because they are both citrus bioflavonoids that work synergistically to support circulatory health. However, there are key differences in their structure and how they are sourced.
Comparison Table: Diosmin vs. Hesperidin
| Feature | Diosmin | Hesperidin |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Plant Source | Citrus peels (often synthesized from hesperidin) | Citrus fruits, especially sweet oranges |
| Structural Difference | Flavone glycoside | Flavanone glycoside |
| Natural Abundance | Relatively low in citrus | Abundant in citrus peels and pulp |
| Used in Supplements | Widely used, often combined with hesperidin | Frequently paired with diosmin for efficacy |
| Pharmacological Focus | Enhances venous tone, improves lymphatic drainage | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective |
The Role of Diosmin in Plant Life and Human Health
In plants, diosmin and other flavonoids act as natural defense mechanisms, protecting against pathogens and environmental stress. For humans, this plant-derived compound offers numerous therapeutic benefits, particularly for vascular disorders. It is widely used to treat chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and hemorrhoids, as it helps increase venous tone and improve microcirculation. This is achieved by reducing inflammation and protecting the blood vessel walls. Furthermore, its potent antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress in the body. Many commercial diosmin supplements are actually a micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF), containing a precise ratio of diosmin and hesperidin to maximize absorption and effectiveness.
The Extraction and Commercial Production Process
The process of obtaining diosmin for supplements is a sophisticated one. Because the natural concentration in citrus is too low for commercial-scale extraction, manufacturers typically source large quantities of hesperidin from citrus peel waste. This abundant raw material is then subjected to a chemical process that converts hesperidin into diosmin, resulting in a purer and more concentrated form of the flavonoid for medicinal use. This method ensures a consistent and high-quality supply for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
Conclusion: Sourcing Diosmin from Nature and Supplements
In summary, while historical records point to plants like figwort and buchu as natural sources, the vast majority of diosmin available today originates from citrus fruits, specifically their peels. The primary natural source is the flavonoid hesperidin, which is abundant in citrus and is then processed to create the diosmin found in supplements. Whether through a balanced diet rich in citrus or with targeted supplementation, diosmin remains a valuable plant-derived compound for supporting overall circulatory health.
For more detailed information on flavonoid health benefits, you can consult authoritative resources such as the National Institutes of Health.
