The Citrus Roots of Diosmin and Hesperidin
The combined flavonoid known as diosmin hesperidin finds its primary natural source in the plant kingdom, particularly within the Citrus genus. While they are often discussed together in supplements for their synergistic effects on vascular health, they have slightly different origins within this family of plants.
Hesperidin's Natural Abundance
Hesperidin is a bioflavonoid found in high concentrations in citrus fruits. The highest levels are typically located in the citrus flavedo (the colored outer layer of the peel) and albedo (the white spongy layer beneath the peel). The fruit's pulp and juice also contain hesperidin, but in much lower quantities. Key citrus fruits rich in hesperidin include:
- Oranges (Citrus sinensis): A primary source, especially the peels.
- Lemons (Citrus limon): Also contain significant amounts.
- Tangerines (Citrus reticulata): Another common source.
- Grapefruits (Citrus paradise): Contain hesperidin, though typically in lesser amounts than oranges.
The industrial process for extracting hesperidin often utilizes the vast quantities of citrus by-products generated by the juice industry, making it an efficient and sustainable source for dietary supplements. The hesperidin is typically extracted from the fruit's rinds, which are rich in the flavonoid.
Diosmin's Semi-Synthetic Origin
Unlike hesperidin, diosmin is not typically found in high concentrations naturally. While it was first isolated from the plant Scrophularia nodosa, most diosmin used commercially today is not directly extracted from plants. Instead, it is produced semi-synthetically by a chemical process using naturally derived hesperidin as a precursor. This manufacturing process involves the dehydrogenation (removal of hydrogen atoms) of hesperidin, converting it into diosmin. This method ensures a consistent and high-purity product for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.
Other Potential Plant Sources
While citrus is the dominant source, other plants contain these flavonoids or their precursors in smaller amounts:
- Rutin (a precursor to diosmin): Found in buckwheat, apples, and certain citrus varieties.
- Hyssopus officinalis: This plant also contains diosmin.
- Vicia species: Certain plants in this genus have been reported to contain diosmin.
These alternative sources, however, are less common for large-scale commercial production compared to the efficient and abundant citrus-based methods.
The Extraction and Manufacturing Process
The journey from a citrus fruit peel to a finished diosmin hesperidin supplement involves a multi-step process for manufacturers. This ensures the bioavailability of the product, particularly through a process called micronization.
- Hesperidin Extraction: Citrus by-products like peels and rinds are macerated, boiled in water, and then treated with an alkaline solution to extract the hesperidin.
- Conversion to Diosmin: The purified hesperidin is then reacted with a solvent and an oxidant, such as iodine, to trigger the dehydrogenation process.
- Purification: The crude diosmin is then isolated, washed, and purified to remove any remaining solvents or impurities.
- Micronization: For the final supplement product, the diosmin and hesperidin are often micronized. This is a process of grinding the particles down to a very small size to significantly increase their absorption and bioavailability in the body.
Micronization vs. Standard Diosmin Hesperidin
| Feature | Standard Diosmin Hesperidin | Micronized Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) |
|---|---|---|
| Particle Size | Larger particles, lower surface area | Very fine, micronized particles, large surface area |
| Absorption Rate | Slower absorption, lower bioavailability | Faster absorption, higher bioavailability |
| Clinical Efficacy | May have less pronounced effects | More clinically studied for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency and hemorrhoids due to improved absorption |
| Purity | Varies by manufacturer | High purity, standardized preparations typically contain 90% diosmin and 10% hesperidin |
| Use | Standard supplements | Medically researched supplements (e.g., Daflon) |
Conclusion: The Path from Citrus to Supplement
In conclusion, the powerful flavonoid combination of diosmin hesperidin originates predominantly from citrus fruits, particularly from the peels and rinds. Hesperidin is extracted directly from these abundant natural sources, while diosmin is semi-synthetically produced through a chemical conversion of hesperidin. The modern manufacturing processes utilize citrus by-products and employ advanced techniques like micronization to create highly bioavailable and effective supplements for vascular support. The vast supply from the citrus industry makes these compounds a cornerstone of nutritional and pharmaceutical applications for blood vessel health.
Natural Sources of Hesperidin
- Oranges (Citrus sinensis): The peel and white pith are the most concentrated sources.
- Tangerines (Citrus reticulata): The rinds of this fruit are rich in hesperidin.
- Lemons (Citrus limon): Found in significant quantities in the fruit's pericarp.
- Limes (Citrus aurantifolia): Contain notable amounts of this flavonoid.
- Grapefruits (Citrus paradise): Though lower in concentration, they are still a source.
The Industrial Synthesis of Diosmin
- Starting Material: The process begins with hesperidin, extracted from citrus fruit by-products.
- Oxidation: A chemical reaction, often involving iodine or other oxidants, is used to dehydrogenate the hesperidin.
- Purification Steps: The resulting crude diosmin undergoes multiple washings and crystallization to remove impurities and increase purity.
- Micronization: For therapeutic use, the purified diosmin is often micronized into tiny particles to improve absorption in the body.
Bioavailability Enhancement
- Micronization Process: This mechanical process involves reducing the particle size of the flavonoids. For example, micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) typically consists of 90% diosmin and 10% hesperidin, with a very small particle size.
- Improved Absorption: The reduced particle size of micronized flavonoids allows for more efficient and complete absorption in the gastrointestinal tract compared to non-micronized forms.
- Enhanced Efficacy: Increased absorption is believed to contribute to the greater clinical efficacy observed with micronized formulations in treating venous and lymphatic disorders.
Diosmin vs. Hesperidin: An Overview
- Diosmin: Can be found in small amounts in some plants but is primarily produced semi-synthetically from hesperidin for commercial use.
- Hesperidin: A natural citrus bioflavonoid, widely available in the peels and pulp of various citrus fruits.
- Combined Synergy: Often combined in supplements to leverage their complementary effects on circulatory and vascular health.
The Role of Citrus By-products
- Sustainable Sourcing: The juice industry's waste stream, consisting mainly of peels and rinds, provides a large and sustainable source of hesperidin for nutraceutical manufacturing.
- Economic Advantage: Utilizing these by-products reduces production costs and minimizes waste.
- Bioflavonoid Reservoir: The high concentration of flavonoids in citrus peel makes it an ideal raw material for extraction.
Other Relevant Plant Sources
- Buckwheat: This plant contains rutin, which can serve as a precursor to diosmin.
- Apples: Also contain rutin, although in smaller concentrations compared to citrus peels for hesperidin.
- Certain Vicia and Hyssopus species: Have been documented as natural sources, though not used in large-scale commercial production.
