Evidence supporting the use of: Hesperidin
For the health condition: Varicose Veins

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hesperidin, a bioflavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits, is often combined with diosmin and used as a treatment for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins. The rationale for its use is based on its pharmacological actions: hesperidin is thought to strengthen capillaries, reduce vascular permeability, and exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Several randomized controlled trials, particularly in Europe, have evaluated the efficacy of a micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) containing diosmin and hesperidin in patients with varicose veins and CVI. These studies generally report modest improvements in symptoms such as leg swelling, heaviness, and cramps compared to placebo. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews, including those by the Cochrane Collaboration, have concluded that there is moderate-quality evidence that MPFF can provide symptomatic relief, though the clinical significance is sometimes debated and the effect size is moderate.

Most studies have used MPFF (which is 90% diosmin and 10% hesperidin), making it difficult to attribute effects solely to hesperidin. However, animal and in vitro studies suggest hesperidin itself has venotonic and protective effects on blood vessels. Hesperidin is approved as a supportive treatment for venous disorders in several European countries. Side effects are generally mild. While hesperidin use for varicose veins is based on clinical research and not just tradition, more high-quality, hesperidin-specific trials are needed to clarify its independent contribution. Overall, scientific evidence supports its use, but evidence strength is moderate (rated 3/5).

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