Vitamin P (Citrin, Rutin, Hesperidin)

 Vitamin P (Citrin, Rutin, Hesperidin)

(Permeability factor)                            

The existence of another vitamin was suggested when crude extracts of ascorbic acid were found more effective than the pure substance in prolonging lives of scorbutic animals. The name of this vitamin has come from the paprika. Of the several compounds with vitamin P activity rutin and esculin have been formed to be most effective.

Chemistry

Rutin is obtained from buckwheat. Rutin contains glucose and rhamnose and is a disaccharide. Esculin is obtained from chestnuts and it is 6, 7-dihydroxycoumarin-6-glucoside.

Properties

·        White crystalline powder

·        Water soluble compounds

Distribution

Animal sources

·        Absent

Plant sources

·        These are always of plant origin and found always with vitamin C.

Mode of action

The substances possessing vitamin P activity have a direct constrictor action on vascular capillaries and reduce their fragility and permeability.

Functions

It is generally used in treating capillary bleeding and increased capillary fragility.