Flavonoid

**Semantic type:** Organic Chemical

**Definition:** One of a number of chemical compounds found in certain fruits, vegetables and seeds with antioxidant properties and potential antineoplastic properties. As polyphenolic, soluble plant pigments, flavonoids are usually subdivided into 5 subgroups flavonols, flavones, flavonones, flavan-3-ols, anthocyanidins. Although not considered essential nutrients, some flavonoids may be beneficial to health by strengthening and protecting blood vessels and connective tissue and acting as anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, and antiviral agents. As antioxidants, some flavonoids may protect lipids from oxidative damage or retard the formation of cataracts. (NCI04)

**Synonyms:** - 2-Phenyl-Benzopyran - 2-Phenyl-Chromene - 3-Hydroxy-2-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one - 3-Hydroxyflavone - 3-Hydroxyflavone - Flavonol - Flavonols - flavonoid