eriodictyol

Eriodictyol is a flavanone, a subclass of flavonoids, known for its presence in certain plants and its antioxidant properties. It features the typical flavanone 2-phenylchroman-4-one core with multiple hydroxyl substituents, contributing to its chemical reactivity and biological activity.

Occurrence and sources: Eriodictyol has been identified in Eriodictyon californicum (yerba santa) and in various citrus fruits and related plant species. In plants, it can occur as an aglycone or as part of glycosides in complex mixtures of phenolic compounds.

Chemistry and analytical notes: As with other flavonoids, eriodictyol is often analyzed using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods such as HPLC, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Its hydroxyl groups contribute to hydrophilicity and enable various chemical interactions, including radical scavenging.

Biological activity: In vitro studies indicate that eriodictyol can act as a free radical scavenger and may influence cellular oxidative stress. Some research has explored potential anti-inflammatory and other bioactive effects, but findings are preliminary and context-dependent, requiring further investigation to clarify physiological relevance.

Applications and research context: Eriodictyol is used as a reference compound in phytochemical studies of flavonoids and serves as a scaffold for investigating structure–activity relationships with related flavanones. Its occurrence in edible and medicinal plants contributes to interest in its dietary and pharmacological implications, though robust clinical evidence remains limited.

See also: Flavonoids, Flavanones, Eriodictyon.