Which Fruits Contain Diosmin? A Guide to Natural Sources

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

While most diosmin used commercially is synthesized from the hesperidin found in citrus fruit peels, the flavonoid itself is naturally present in several fruits. Which fruits contain diosmin is a common question for those exploring natural dietary sources for this important bioflavonoid.

Quick Summary

Diosmin is a flavonoid primarily concentrated in the peels of citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons, although levels are typically low. Minor amounts are found in other plant sources, but supplementation is common for therapeutic doses.

Key Points

Citrus fruits are primary sources: The flavonoid diosmin is most commonly found in the rinds of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
Concentration is in the peel: The highest concentration of diosmin is located in the peel and pith (albedo), not the juicy pulp of citrus fruits.
Dietary intake is low: It is difficult to obtain therapeutic doses of diosmin from diet alone due to its low concentration in fruits.
Supplements use concentrated diosmin: Commercial diosmin is often extracted from citrus rinds and formulated into supplements for higher potency and better absorption.
Other food sources: Some foods like buckwheat and apples contain rutin, a precursor to diosmin, which also adds to overall flavonoid intake.
Supports vascular health: Diosmin is used to support circulation, strengthen blood vessels, and manage conditions like hemorrhoids and varicose veins.
Important to distinguish sources: For specific health concerns, supplemental diosmin provides a targeted dose, while dietary sources offer general health benefits.

Understanding Diosmin

Diosmin is a plant compound, or bioflavonoid, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often used in dietary supplements to support vascular health, including treating conditions like hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and venous insufficiency. While its therapeutic use is typically managed via concentrated supplements, a certain amount can be obtained naturally through diet.

The Role of Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are a group of active molecules found in plants that offer various health benefits. Diosmin is a specific type of bioflavonoid. The concentration of these compounds varies widely depending on the plant species, growing conditions, and processing methods.

The Primary Source: Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are the most significant natural food source of diosmin and its related flavonoid, hesperidin. However, the key is knowing where in the fruit this compound is concentrated. Diosmin is predominantly found in the peel and albedo (the white pith) of citrus fruits, not the juicy pulp. This is why supplement manufacturers extract it from the rind for higher yields.

Specific Citrus Fruits Containing Diosmin

Here is a list of citrus fruits known to contain diosmin:

Oranges: Particularly the peels of sweet and bitter oranges, which are also rich in the precursor hesperidin.
Lemons: Both the peel and pulp contain diosmin and other beneficial bioflavonoids.
Grapefruits: While known for naringin, grapefruits also contain diosmin in their rinds.
Limes: Similar to other citrus varieties, limes hold diosmin primarily in their peel.
Tangerines and Mandarins: These small citrus fruits also contribute to the family of diosmin-containing produce.

Limitations of Dietary Diosmin

While eating citrus fruits adds diosmin to your diet, the concentration is relatively low. For those seeking therapeutic benefits, achieving the necessary dosage through diet alone would require consuming a substantial and often impractical amount of citrus rind. This is why most clinical applications rely on concentrated diosmin supplements.

Beyond Citrus: Other Plant-Based Sources

While citrus fruits are the primary source, some other plants and fruits contain either diosmin or related compounds like rutin, which can be a plant-based precursor to diosmin.

Rutin and Diosmin

Rutin is another flavonoid found in many fruits and plants that can be a natural source for diosmin production. Including rutin-rich foods in your diet can contribute to overall flavonoid intake.

Fruits and Other Foods Containing Flavonoids (Including Rutin)

Buckwheat: This gluten-free grain is an excellent source of rutin.
Apples: Contain rutin, contributing to your flavonoid intake.
Berries: While not a significant source of diosmin specifically, berries like blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are rich in other beneficial flavonoids like anthocyanins.
Grapes: Red and purple grapes contain various flavonoids and antioxidants.

Comparing Dietary vs. Supplemental Diosmin

It is important to distinguish between getting diosmin from food and using concentrated diosmin supplements. The therapeutic doses used in clinical studies are far higher than what can be obtained from a regular diet. Supplements often use a micronized form of diosmin, which improves absorption and bioavailability compared to the non-micronized form found in food.

Diosmin Sources Comparison Table


Feature	Dietary Diosmin (from fruit)	Supplemental Diosmin (e.g., MPFF)
Source	Rind and pith of citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, etc.).	Extracted and concentrated primarily from citrus rind.
Concentration	Low and highly variable.	High and standardized, typically 90% diosmin with 10% hesperidin.
Bioavailability	Lower absorption due to non-micronized state.	High absorption due to micronized form.
Primary Use	General dietary intake for overall health.	Clinical treatment of venous issues like hemorrhoids and chronic venous insufficiency.
Dosage	Minimal intake, difficult to quantify for therapeutic effect.	Standardized doses for targeted therapeutic results.

The Role of the Peel

The peel of citrus fruits is a surprisingly potent source of healthy compounds. Not only does it contain diosmin, but it is also rich in vitamin C and other bioflavonoids. However, the peel can be bitter and difficult to digest. Ways to incorporate it include grating the zest into recipes, using it to flavor beverages, or blending small amounts into smoothies.

Conclusion

While a diet rich in fruits is always beneficial, those wondering which fruits contain diosmin should focus on citrus varieties, particularly their rinds. It is crucial to recognize that the amount of diosmin naturally present in fruits is minimal compared to the concentrated doses found in supplements used for therapeutic purposes. For general wellness, eating a variety of fruits, especially citrus, provides a broad spectrum of health-supporting bioflavonoids. However, for specific medical conditions requiring higher doses, consultation with a healthcare provider regarding supplements is the most reliable approach.

A note on scientific research

Further research is continuously exploring the full range of diosmin's benefits, such as its antioxidant and cardiovascular properties. A balanced diet, including fruits that contain diosmin, contributes to overall health, but it does not replace medical treatment for diagnosed conditions. For more information on the bioactivity of citrus flavonoids, authoritative sources like the National Institutes of Health provide in-depth analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Diosmin is a natural plant flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is most notably used to support vascular health, helping with blood circulation and strengthening blood vessels.

Yes, diosmin is found in many citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and tangerines. However, it is primarily concentrated in the rind and pith, with very little in the juice or pulp.

No, it is very difficult to obtain a therapeutic dose of diosmin from diet alone. The concentration in fruit is low, and the amounts used in clinical studies are significantly higher than what can be consumed from food.

Dietary diosmin is naturally occurring but at low, variable concentrations. Supplemental diosmin, often derived from citrus, is concentrated, standardized, and typically micronized for better absorption and therapeutic effect.

No, they are different but related flavonoids. Diosmin is often derived from hesperidin in supplement manufacturing because hesperidin is found in higher concentrations in citrus rinds. They are frequently combined in supplements for a synergistic effect.

Some fruits and plants contain rutin, a compound that can serve as a precursor to diosmin. Rutin-rich foods include buckwheat and apples.

To get some diosmin from citrus rind, you can grate the zest and use it in cooking or baking, or blend a small amount of the whole, washed peel into smoothies. For therapeutic levels, a supplement is the recommended route.