Hesperidin Tablet: Benefits, Side Effects and Precautions

Hesperidin is a chemical from a plant classified as a "bioflavonoid". It is mainly found in citrus fruits. Hesperidin is most commonly used alone or in conjunction with other citrus bioflavonoids (such as diosmin) for disorders of the blood vessels, such as hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and impaired circulation (venous stasis).

Lymphedema, a disorder causing fluid retention that can be a complication in breast cancer surgery, is often used to treat it.

Hesperidin Tablet Uses

Commonly Used For:

• Improving blood vessel function
• Treating hemorrhoids and varicose veins
• Supporting cardiovascular health
• Reducing inflammation

Key Benefits:

• Strengthens blood vessel walls
• Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent
• Supports healthy circulation and reduces leg swelling

Conditions Hesperidin Treats:

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): Hesperidin methyl chalcone, butcher's broom, and vitamin C supplements alleviate symptoms and improve CVI over 2-6 months, possibly more effective with Venoruton.
• Hemorrhoids: Hesperidin and diosmin combination reduces anal symptoms and prevents recurrence.
• Venous Leg Ulcers: Hesperidin and diosmin improve healing with compression dressings over 2 months.
• Obesity: Glucosyl hesperidin does not reduce body weight significantly in overweight individuals.
• Athletic Performance: Pre-workout hesperidin may enhance speed and energy in cyclists.
• Diabetes: A hesperidin and diosmin combination lowers blood sugar levels in women with type 2 diabetes over 45 days.
• High Blood Pressure: Hesperidin may reduce diastolic blood pressure, but effects on systolic pressure vary.
• Lymphedema: Butcher's broom, hesperidin methyl chalcone, and vitamin C reduce swelling and improve mobility in arm lymphedema post breast cancer treatment.
• Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Hesperidin may slightly improve liver function in adults with NAFLD.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Alpha-glucosyl hesperidin-containing beverages may enhance RA symptom management over 12 weeks.

How Does Hesperidin Work?

• Strengthening capillaries and veins, reducing leakage and swelling
• Acting as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals
• Reducing inflammation in blood vessels and tissues
• Supporting collagen production, which helps maintain vessel elasticity

It interacts with the vascular system, promoting better blood flow and reducing inflammation-related discomfort.

Dosage of Hesperidin

Typical Dosage Instructions

Orally: A particular combination product containing hesperidin methyl chalcone 150 mg, butcher's broom root extract 150 mg, and ascorbic acid 100 mg has been used for impaired circulation that can cause the legs to swell (chronic venous insufficiency or CVI). Also, a combination of hesperidin 100-150 mg with diosmin 900-1350 mg taken every day for 2-6 months was used.

A combination of 150 mg hesperidin plus 1350 mg diosmin twice daily for 4 days, followed by 100 mg hesperidin and 900 mg diosmin twice daily for 3 days was used for hemorrhoids. In order to avoid the return of hemorrhoids, a combination of 50 mg of hesperidin plus 450 mg of diosmin twice daily for 3 months was also used.

A combination of 100 mg of hesperidin and 900 mg of diosmin daily for up to 2 months has been used for sores caused by weak blood circulation (venous leg ulcers).

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one
• Do not double the dose

What Happens in Case of Overdose?

Overdose is rare and typically not serious, but symptoms may include:

• Mild stomach upset
• Headache or dizziness

Seek medical advice if large amounts are ingested accidentally.

What are the Hesperidin Side Effects?

Common Side Effects:

• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea or gas
• Headache
• Skin flushing or mild rash

Serious but Rare Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing)
• Increased heart rate (very rare)

Precautions and Warnings

• Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Hesperidin, taken by mouth with diosmin, is likely safe for pregnant or breast-feeding mothers.
• Bleeding disorder: Hesperidin can slow the coagulation of blood and increase the risk of bleeding. Hesperidin could, in principle, make bleeding disorders worse.
• Low blood pressure: Blood pressure can be reduced by hesperidin. In principle, in people who already have low blood pressure, taking hesperidin may cause blood pressure to become too low.
• Surgery: Hesperidin can prolong bleeding. During and after surgical procedures, there is concern that hesperidin might increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid taking hesperidin for at least 2 weeks before the surgery is scheduled.

Who Should Avoid Hesperidin:

• Individuals allergic to citrus fruits or flavonoids
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless approved by a healthcare provider)

Use With Caution If You Have:

• Bleeding disorders (may affect clotting in high doses)
• Scheduled surgeries (discontinue at least 2 weeks before)

Alcohol or Food Interactions

• No significant interactions with alcohol or specific foods
• Best taken with meals to reduce risk of stomach upset

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Can Interact With:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)-may increase bleeding risk
• Antiplatelet drugs
• Other herbal supplements with blood-thinning effects (e.g., ginkgo, garlic)

Always inform your doctor before combining with other medications or supplements.

How Should Hesperidin Be Stored?

Recommended Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F)
• Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight
• Store in the original container

What Happens If Not Stored Properly?

• Exposure to heat or moisture may reduce effectiveness
• May lead to clumping or loss of potency

References