Flavonoids: a review of probable mechanisms of action and potential applications

The aim of this review, a summary of the putative biological actions of fla vonoids, was to obtain a further understanding of the reported beneficial h ealth effects of these substances. Flavonoids occur naturally in fruit, veg etables, and beverages such as tea and wine. Research in the field of flavo noids has increased since the discovery of the French paradox, ie, the low cardiovascular mortality rate observed in Mediterranean populations in asso ciation with red wine consumption and a high saturated fat intake. Several other potential beneficial properties of flavonoids have since been ascerta ined. We review the different groups of known flavonoids, the probable mech anisms by which they act, and the potential clinical applications of these fascinating natural substances.