Flavonoids - Action and Properties

Flavonoids are a large group of plant-derived compounds that play a key role in maintaining human health due to their powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Flavonoids are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, herbs, tea, wine, as well as many medicinal plants. Due to their beneficial effects on health, flavonoids have gained popularity in both the prevention and treatment of various diseases. In this article, we will take a closer look at what flavonoids are, what properties they have, and how they can support the body.

What Are Flavonoids?

Flavonoids are a group of polyphenols that are found in plants, giving them their characteristic colors - from yellow to reddish-purple. These compounds are produced by plants mainly to protect against harmful environmental factors such as UV radiation, microorganisms and insects. For humans, flavonoids are crucial, as they exhibit a number of beneficial health properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as supporting the cardiovascular system and preventing the development of cancer.

Flavonoids - Chemical Composition

Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds that can be divided into several subclasses depending on their chemical structure:

• Flavonols (e.g., quercetin, kemferol): Have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flavones (e.g., apigenin, luteolin): Show anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
• Flavanones (e.g. hesperidin, naringenin): Present in citrus fruits, they promote heart health.
• Isoflavones (e.g. genistein, daidzein): Compounds present in soybeans that affect hormones.
• Anthocyanins (e.g., cyanidin, delphinidin): They give blue, purple or red color to fruits, e.g. berries, grapes, and have strong antioxidant effects.

Flavonoids - Action

Antioxidant Activity

One of the most important actions of flavonoids is their ability to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are reactive molecules that are formed in the body as a result of metabolic changes or are generated by external factors such as UV radiation, pollution or smoking. Excess free radicals cause cell damage, which accelerates the aging process and the development of many chronic diseases, such as atherosclerosis, diabetes or tumors. Flavonoids as antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which protects cells from damage and promotes health at the cellular level.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Flavonoids exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects, making them a valuable support in alleviating chronic inflammation in the body. They work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that are involved in inflammatory processes. Chronic inflammation is often the cause of the development of many diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Thanks to their properties, flavonoids can help control inflammation, which supports the health of the immune system.

Circulatory System Support

Flavonoids, especially those present in red wine (resveratrol) and citrus fruits (hesperidin), play an important role in improving cardiovascular health. These compounds help dilate blood vessels, improve vascular elasticity and reduce oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which helps reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Flavonoids can also help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, which reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Anticancer Activity

Flavonoids have been extensively studied for their potential anticancer properties. It has been shown that certain flavonoids can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, stimulate apoptosis (natural cell death) and prevent angiogenesis - the process of creating new blood vessels that nourish the tumor. Compounds such as quercetin, apigenin and genistein are particularly promising for research into the prevention and support of anti-cancer therapies.

Protection of the Nervous System

Flavonoids, especially those present in berries and dark fruits (anthocyanins), can support brain health. They have neuroprotective effects, meaning that they protect neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. Studies suggest that regular consumption of flavonoids can support memory, concentration and reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Use of Flavonoids in Medicine and Supplementation

Flavonoids have found widespread use in natural medicine and supplementation due to their versatile health-promoting properties. They are widely available in the form of dietary supplements, as well as in food products such as herbal teas, plant extracts, fruit juices and products high in antioxidants. In particular, flavonoids derived from medicinal mushrooms, such as Coriolus versicolor, are used in supplements to support the immune system.

The company offers ENCANN product available Coriolus Wrośniak Multicolored, which contains flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that support the health of the immune system, as well as support preventive health care

Flavonoids - Summary

Flavonoids are extremely valuable plant compounds that offer broad health benefits. With their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and cardiovascular support properties, flavonoids play a key role in maintaining health and preventing many chronic diseases. Regular consumption of flavonoid-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, tea and dietary supplements, can support health on many levels, from protecting against oxidative stress to improving cardiovascular and brain function.

Supplements containing flavonoids, such as. Coriolus Wrośniak Pink-colored. from ENCANN, is an excellent support for health, helping to protect the body from many diseases and strengthen its natural defense mechanisms.

Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)

Statements given refer to research on adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not over Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with European Parliament Regulation 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus is presented on this page. Hedgehog soplolly- one of the components of the offered product.