Evidence supporting the use of: Bioflavonoid
For the health condition: Eye Problems
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Bioflavonoids, also known as flavonoids, have a long history of traditional use in supporting eye health. Their use dates back to the early to mid-20th century, particularly after Nobel laureate Albert Szent-Györgyi discovered them and proposed that they worked synergistically with vitamin C to maintain capillary strength. Traditionally, bioflavonoids have been included in supplements to help with conditions such as capillary fragility, retinal hemorrhages, and to generally support vascular health in the eyes. Popular sources include citrus fruits, bilberry, and grape seed extract.
However, scientific validation for bioflavonoids specifically treating or preventing eye problems is limited. Some laboratory and small clinical studies suggest that certain flavonoids may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, potentially protecting retinal cells from oxidative stress. Bilberry extract, in particular, has been promoted for improving night vision and slowing progression of conditions like diabetic retinopathy, but robust clinical evidence is lacking. Systematic reviews and authoritative bodies generally conclude that while bioflavonoids are safe and may support general vascular health, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to definitively recommend them for treatment or prevention of specific eye diseases. Thus, their use for eye health remains primarily based on tradition rather than strong scientific proof.
Other ingredients used for Eye Problems
alpha-caroteneanthocyanins
berry flavor
beta-carotene
bilberry
blueberry
carrot
chamomile
citrus bioflavonoids
cryptoxanthin
cucumber
turmeric
fennel
flavonols
goldenseal
green tea
hypromellose
Japanese sophora
lutein
mango
mixed carotenoids
omega-3 fatty acids
rutin
selenium
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
zeaxanthin
zinc
chickweed
nut grass
boxthorne
chrysanthemum
oriental arborvitae
trichosanthes
Avens
anthocyanidins
anthocyanosides
Bai Ji
beta-zeacarotene
berry
Bioflavonoids
Bassia scoparia
Carotene (unspecified)
Carthamus
Epidermal Growth Factor
Little ironweed
Sumac
Other health conditions supported by Bioflavonoid
Aging (prevention)Allergies (respiratory)
Alzheimer's Disease
Angina
Arthritis
Asthma
Bleeding (external)
Bruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Capillary Weakness
Cardiovascular Disease
Circulation (poor)
Cold Sores
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colitis
Conjunctivitis
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Edema
Eye Problems
Eyes (red or itching)
Eyesight (poor)
Free Radical Damage
Gastritis
Gingivitis