Diosmetin

Diosmetin is a bioactive flavonoid compound found in various plants, including the citrus species. It is known for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

Chemical Structure

Diosmetin is a flavone, a type of flavonoid, which is a class of plant secondary metabolites. Its chemical structure consists of a 15-carbon skeleton, which is arranged in a C6-C3-C6 configuration. This structure is similar to other flavones, but diosmetin is distinguished by the presence of a methoxy group at the 4' position of the B ring.

Sources

Diosmetin is found in a variety of plants, but it is most commonly associated with the citrus species. It can be extracted from the peels of oranges and lemons, as well as from the flowers of the chamomile plant. Diosmetin is also present in the herb Oregano, and in the plant Scutellaria baicalensis, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Health Benefits

Research has suggested that diosmetin may have several potential health benefits. These include:

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Diosmetin has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are proteins that promote inflammation.
• Antioxidant properties: Like many flavonoids, diosmetin has antioxidant properties. It can neutralize harmful free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer.
• Anticancer properties: Some studies have suggested that diosmetin may have anticancer properties. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells in laboratory studies.

Safety and Side Effects

While diosmetin is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications and may cause side effects in some people. These can include gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions. As with any supplement, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting to take diosmetin.

See Also

• Flavonoid
• Oregano
• Scutellaria baicalensis