Rutin: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications

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Rutin is a member of the bioflavonoid family, also known as vitamin P, specifically a flavonol glycoside of quercetin found widely in plants. The main sources of rutin are buckwheat, Sophora japonica and Ruta graveolens (from which it gets its name). Other sources of rutin include the leaves of several eucalyptus species, linden flowers, elderflower, hawthorn leaves and flowers, St. John's wort, Ginkgo biloba, tea, apple... Research has identified rutin as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, and anticarcinogenic properties. It has also been shown that rutin can inhibit human collagen-stimulated platelet aggregation, decrease capillary fragility, and exert antithrombotic effects. Orally, rutin is used as a vascular protector, to prevent strokes and for varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel diseases, and to combat oxidative stress.

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Phytosubstances


Indications

Rating methodology

EFSA approval.

Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, including a significant number of patients (>100) with consistently positive outcomes for the indication.
Several clinical trials (> 2) randomized controlled with double blind, and including a significant number of patients (>100) with positive outcomes for the indication.
One or more randomized studies or multiple cohorts or epidemiological studies with positive outcomes for the indication.
Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or contradictory.
Lack of clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.


Venous Insufficiency, Heavy Legs
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According to a recent Cochrane review, rutin, classified among phlebotonics, is primarily studied for its effects in treating chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). It acts by slightly reducing lower limb edema (effect measured by ankle circumference and leg volume), while improving symptoms such as pain, heaviness, and itching. Studies report moderate efficacy, with a decrease in ankle circumference of approximately 4.27 mm compared to placebo, as well as a subjective improvement in feelings of heaviness and pain. However, the data quality is considered moderate to low due to methodology variability and potential biases. The benefits of rutin seem modest and require additional studies to confirm its effectiveness in managing CVI symptoms.

Posologie

posologieOral

posologie500 mg

formulationDry extract


Synergies


Wrinkles
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A randomized, double-blind clinical study evaluated the anti-aging effects of a cream containing 2% rutin. For 4 weeks, 40 women aged 30 to 50 applied 2 g of cream (2% rutin), morning and evening, on their face. Measurements included skin elasticity, dermal density, and wrinkles. The study showed significant improvements: - Skin elasticity: increased by 25.34% after 2 weeks and by 40.50% after 4 weeks. - Dermal density: increased by 10.73% after 2 weeks and by 20.16% after 4 weeks. - Crow's feet wrinkles: reduction in length (23.90%) and surface (27.19%) after 4 weeks. - Under-eye wrinkles: reduction in number by 31.96% after 2 weeks and by 49.48% after 4 weeks. Rutin acts by enhancing the expression of genes related to collagen production and inhibiting extracellular matrix degrading enzymes (MMP1). It also reduces oxidative stress induced by free radicals, a key factor in skin aging.

Posologie

posologieTopical

posologie2%

formulationCream


Synergies


Properties


Venotonic

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Rutin is particularly known for its beneficial effects on vascular health. By strengthening capillary walls, it reduces their permeability and fragility and helps to prevent edema and improve blood circulation. Studies show that rutin improves endothelial function by increasing the production of nitric oxide, a natural vasodilator, in human endothelial cells. This helps regulate blood pressure and reduce vascular inflammation, making it relevant in the treatment of chronic venous disorders, such as varicose veins and venous insufficiency.

Usages associés

Venous Insufficiency

Antioxidant

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Rutin is a powerful antioxidant capable of scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. By acting as a metal chelator and neutralizing reactive oxygen species, it protects cells from oxidative stress-induced damages, a key factor in the development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative diseases, and certain cancers. Moreover, it stimulates antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). These properties have also been linked to the reduction of skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays.

Usages associés

Wrinkles


Safety dosage

Adult: 600 mg

Up to 600 mg per day for a maximum of 12 weeks has been used with apparent safety in clinical studies. Topical use: Creams containing rutin, generally at concentrations of 2%, have been used without reported adverse effects.