According to Wikipedia, quercetin is a flavonol (a type of bioflavonoid/flavonoid) that we find in a variety of different fruits, vegetables, leaves and grains. There are several quercetin uses in the body because it has shown to inhibit the oxidation of other molecules.
Quercetin is under early-stage clinical research. In other words, scientists are conducting studies to see if it can prevent or resolve several different ailments and diseases.
However, clinical studies do not currently have evidence that quercetin can cure any disease. That said, this bioflavonoid has has shown to contain anti-oxidant, atherogenic and anti-carcinogenic properties.
Quercetin Uses: How is Quercetin Being Researched?
Byron J. Richards is a Board Certified Clinical Nutritionist, and he shares some areas of research that are being conducted that show potential including:
- Quercetin helps activate the production of cellular glutathione. In turn, this protects insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas which therefore leads to healthier blood sugar.
- It has also shown to offer antioxidant protection for cells lining the sinuses as well as mitochondria.
- In addition, quercetin reduced free radical damage in diabetic rats and offered cardiovascular protection as well.
- Moreover, experiments demonstrated that quercetin could suppress inflammation in animals who had rheumatoid arthritis.
- An animal study showed that early lesions leading to colon cancer could be prevented with quercetin.
- Plus, quercetin reduced flu susceptibility in mice.
- This flavonol may aid in metabolism and weight loss. For example, studies using quercetin combined with resveratrol helped to both suppress fat cell formation and increase fat cell death.
A medical journal from Bentham Science titled, “Anti Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry” addresses quercetin and its anticancer properties.
Allergies & Using Quercetin as a Natural Antihistamine:
Richards also states, “Quercetin’s antihistamine properties are now well established. It has been found to stabilize mast cells in a way that helps lower stress induced anxiety and allergic reactions.”
Furthermore, Frank M. Painter, DC of Chiro.org points out an interesting fact. The recent increase in asthma comes from increased exposure to environmental allergens and decreased consumption of antioxidants.
That may be why we are seeing such positive results in the treatment of asthma with flavonoids, specifically quercetin. Likewise, preliminary evidence shows that quercetin prevents certain immune cells from releasing histamine. Hence, if histamine does not release, we can avoid the allergic reaction.
Other research in the areas of inflammation and quercetin uses for allergies include:
- Eczema
- Hives
- Pancreatitis
- Prostatitis
- Canker Sores
- Gout
- Cataract
See also:
1. According to University of Michigan Health System, scientific data consistently shows that quercetin may reduce symptoms of chronic prostatitis.
2. Russell Faust, PhD, MD agrees that quercetin, as a naturally-occurring antihistamine, can help with symptoms of asthma, rhinitis and sinusitis.
How to Improve the Use of Quercetin?
Examine.com reports that quercetin works better when used with other bioflavonoids. (For example, Resveratrol, Soy Isoflavones or Green Tea Catechins). Conversely, when used by itself, the nutrient has less impact.
Whole Health Chicago provides integrative, functional and alternative medicine solutions to their patients. For one, they believe that combining quercetin with bromelain (such as Source Naturals Activated Quercetin) enhances their anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition, they suggest using this combination to help treat inflammatory conditions, such as eczema and allergies. This natural alternative can provide relief without the unpleasant side effects of traditional medications. By the way, people have successfully used quercetin for hives, as a natural decongestant plus other allergic and inflammatory symptoms.
Athletes Using Quercetin to Boost Immune System
By the way, FRS makes nutritional products for athletes. They claim to provide long-lasting energy, improved athletic performance, increased mental function and immune system support.
Consequently, their drinks, powders and chews all include quercetin along with green tea extract, 5 B vitamins, Vitamin c and E.
By the way, you can see reviews of the top quercetin supplements here, along with price comparisons and customer ratings.