Hesperidin is also a potential sedative, possibly acting through opioid or adenosine receptors.Hesperidin exhibited pronounced anticancer activity against some selected humancarcinoma cell lines.Some in vitro results applied only to the aglycone form.

Hesperidin is a flavanone glycoside (flavonoid) found abundantly in citrus fruits. Its aglycone form is called hesperetin. Hesperidin is believed to play a role in plant defense. It acts as an antioxidant according to in vitro studies. In human nutrition it contributes to the integrity of the blood vessels.Various preliminary studies reveal novel pharmaceutical properties. Hesperidin reduced cholesterol and blood pressure in rats. In a mouse study large doses of the glucoside hesperidin decreased bone density loss. Another animal study showed protective effects against sepsis. Hesperidin has antiinflammatory effects.