Quercetin
Overview
You'll find the phytochemical, quercetin, throughout nature. It is a flavonoid responsible for the coloring of certain fruits and vegetables.
It is also a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that has been shown to have a beneficial effect on a wide variety of health issues. Inflammation is the root cause of many conditions, as is oxidative stress or free radical damage.
Quercetin is available in many of the foods we eat. It is most abundant in things like onions, apples green and black tea as well as red wine. However, when intended for therapeutic use, supplementation is typically necessary. That's because food sources only give you a small amount.
Quercetin Benefits
As an anti-inflammatory, quercetin may also provide relief for issues such as allergies, asthma, eczema and hives.
The bioflavonoids in quercetin seem to suppress production of histamine and leukotriene in the human body.
Leukotrine can cause airways to tighten, nasal passages to swell and prompt the body to produce excess mucus. It is the chemical that causes an asthma attack. Histamines are chemicals that cause allergy issues, like common hay fever symptoms.
There is evidence that quercetin could control the release of histamine and leukotriene - reducing symptoms of allergic response.
Recommended Dosage
One of the most studied uses of quercetin is for prostate problems. Taken orally, quercetin could reduce pain and swelling associated with an inflamed prostate.
Quercetin is often used for heart health and supports healthy arteries, circulation and may improve blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels.
This nutrient could be beneficial to people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as it addresses some diabetic complications - including retinopathy and other blood vessel issues.
There is also promising research indicating quercetin could be helpful to cancer patients. Ongoing research is examining whether it could actually help prevent cancer. Studies show quercetin does have activity against certain types of cancer cells and may even slow their growth.
There is no recommended dosage for quercetin. However, amounts of 500mg twice per day for up to 12 weeks are typically considered safe.
Common side effects are headache and tingling in the limbs. High dosages may cause kidney damage.
Quercetin could decrease the effectiveness of certain antibiotics. Talk to your healthcare practitioner.
Quick Facts
- Plant pigment found in fruits and vegetables
- Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity
- Improves prostate issues (pain and swelling)
- Promotes cardiovascular health
- Used to support diabetic health
- May have an effect on cancer
- May suppress histamine production