Do You Bruise Easily?

Tuesday, July 4th 2006

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Bioflavonoids may be the answer

There are over 800 different bioflavonoids which perform many useful functions in the human body. Most of these are associated with strengthening the capillaries and regulating their permeability.

Bioflavonoids to help prevent bleeding

Bioflavonoids act as an antioxidant to provide synergy in the utilisation of Vitamin C. They help prevent or hasten the healing of bruises and reduce the danger of capillary fragility and the resulting leakage of blood vessels. In haemorrhoids, varicose veins, spontaneous abortions, excess menstrual bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, burst blood vessels in the eyes and the bleeding problems of diabetics, the bioflavonoids may be helpful in maintaining capillary health and reducing bleeding concerns. Other areas include increasing immune system activation, guarding against capillary degeneration and declining sight in diabetics and helping reduce high blood pressure.

Prevention of bruising

The bioflavonoids, sometimes called Vitamin P, were found to be the essential component in correcting bruising tendency and improving the permeability and integrity of the capillary lining. The citrus bioflavonoids include Hesperidin, Citrin, Rutin, Catechin, Quercetin and others.

Bioflavonoids are found in the soft white inner skin (pith) of citrus fruits and also in rose hips, apricots, cherries, grapes, papaya, capsicum, broccoli, tomatoes, oranges and lemons. They must be obtained through food or supplements.

There are many different bioflavonoids, the main ones that have been isolated are:

Quercetin is "one of the strongest anti-cancer agents known" according to T Leighton Ph.D professor of biochemistry at the University of Berkeley, California. He said that numerous laboratory studies reveal that quercetin is effective against cancer because it blocks cell changes that initiate cancer and stops the spread of malignant cells that group together to become tumours.

Hesperiden deficiency has been linked with abnormal capillary leakiness as well as pain in the extremities causing achiness, weakness and night leg cramps. Supplemental hesperiden may also help reduce oedema or excess swelling in the legs due to fluid accumulation. Hesperiden works best when given with other bioflavonoids.

Rutin, the rutin component of bioflavonoids is particularly good for decreasing bleeding and bruising from weak blood vessels. Rutin is another bioflavonoid which has demonstrated new antioxidant properties.

Reproduced unabridged from the July - September 2006 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Bruises:

Arnica Extra Strength Gel
Ester C 1000mg plus Bioflavonoids
Family C - 300 grams
Gentle Iron
Mega Bioflavonoids
Quercetin with Bromelain
Super Bioflavonoid
Superior Iron
Vitamin C with Hesperidin Complex

Related health information can be found here:

Alfamax, a rich source of Vitamins and Minerals
Anaemia
Antibiotic Use
Beet Root - a splendid liver and kidney cleanser, full of nutrients and iron
Blood Cleanse
Bruises
Injuries
Iron Deficiency
Skin Health
Vitamin C is essential for fighting infections, wound healing and coping with stress

Related articles can be found here:

Doctors Recommend a Multi-Vitamin a Day

Is It Really "all in your Food"?

Minerals: Critical for Well-Being

Quercetin and Bromelain

Wholefood Multi-Vitamins

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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