A review of benefits and potential application of flavonoids in citrus

Abstract

Flavonoids are phenolic compound that are widely found in fruits, vegetables and beverages such as tea and roselle juices. It is also one of a large group of antioxidants that occurs naturally in living tissues and also an essential nutrient for human health. Many researches have been done and several other potential beneficial properties of flavonoids have been ascertained and it is most commonly known for their antioxidant activity. In the present time, the societal demand and an increasing interest for practical applications has stimulated a wide range of biological and epidemiological studies aiming at characterizing the health promoting properties of specific phenolic compounds with antioxidant activities towards cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases or for use in ant aging or cosmetic products. Increased emphasis on sustainable development should stimulate innovative investigations on phenolic synthesis for improving plant biomass and for a better control of plant and animal health.