Hesperetin
Synopsis of hesperetin
Hesperetin is a flavanone and the aglycone (non-sugar) form of hesperidin, a major citrus bioflavonoid found primarily in oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits. When hesperidin is ingested, it is metabolized in the body into hesperetin, which is the biologically active form responsible for many of the beneficial effects associated with citrus flavonoids. Hesperetin is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and lipid-modulating properties.
Pharmacologically, hesperetin enhances vascular function by supporting endothelial health, improving blood flow, and reducing oxidative damage in blood vessels. It has also been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and inhibit platelet aggregation, making it supportive in the prevention of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. In metabolic health, hesperetin helps improve insulin sensitivity and may aid in the management of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Emerging research also supports hesperetin’s neuroprotective effects, including memory enhancement, anti-anxiety activity, and reduction of neuroinflammation, with potential applications in cognitive aging and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. It is typically used in dietary supplements, often in formulations designed to support vascular health, metabolic balance, and cognitive function.
Historical Use
Although hesperetin itself is a modern pharmacological isolate, its precursor—hesperidin—has a long-standing presence in traditional and folk medicine. Citrus peels, which are rich in hesperidin, have been used for centuries in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and European herbalism to aid digestion, reduce phlegm, improve circulation, and support immune health.
In TCM, dried citrus peel (Chen Pi) has been prescribed for abdominal bloating, poor appetite, and cough, indirectly reflecting the actions now attributed to hesperetin at the cellular level, such as anti-inflammatory and circulatory regulation.
Scientific interest in citrus flavonoids intensified in the 20th century, as researchers explored their roles in capillary strength and vitamin C synergy. The development of standardized extracts and bioactive isolates like hesperetin has since allowed more precise application in cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological support.
Today, hesperetin is viewed as a potent, bioavailable citrus polyphenol with promising applications in chronic inflammation, cardiovascular risk, and cognitive protection, representing the modern evolution of citrus medicine grounded in traditional healing.
Hesperetin is used for these health conditions
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Arteriosclerosis (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Fat Metabolism (poor) (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Free Radical Damage (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
hesperetin is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Heart (Scientific)
Hepatic System (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
