The Importance of Rutin in Nutrition ^†

Abstract

Flavonoids are a group of natural compounds, the main nutritional ingredients of food of plant origin. Rutin is a flavonoid that is widely distributed in plants, fruits, and many foods. It is often called vitamin P or rutoside. According to its chemical composition, it is a polyphenol of the flavonol type, consisting of the flavonol quercetin and the disaccharide rutinose. One of the best food sources of rutin is Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.), especially its sprouts. In addition to being obtained from food, rutin is available on the market today as a supplement in the form of tablets or capsules. Rutin is one of the best-known natural antioxidants in its category due to its powerful antioxidant effect. Many health benefits are attributed to rutin. The absorption of vitamin C and the synthesis of collagen in the body is one of them. Rutin improves circulation, strengthens blood vessels, prevents the formation of blood clots, and lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. It has been proven that rutin has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, as well as anti-carcinogenic effects. Rutin is often used to relieve arthritis pain. In addition, there is evidence that rutin improves knee function in people with arthritis. Rutin has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Studies have documented numerous pharmacological effects of rutin on the central nervous system. Current studies show that rutin is a phytochemical compound with various pharmacological effects. Therefore, rutin can be considered an essential phytochemical compound that needs to be investigated in detail in order to determine the efficacy and safety profile of its use in humans.