Exploring the Benefits of Quercetin: Natural Antioxidant

Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, and it may help reduce the symptoms of allergies and support heart health.
Category
Compound
Where to get
Naturally present in foods like apples, onions, and berries. Also available as a dietary supplement.
Applicable for
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Quercetin FAQ


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What foods contain quercetin?

It’s estimated that the average person consumes 10–100 mg of it daily through various food sources. Foods that commonly contain quercetin include onions, apples, grapes, berries, broccoli, citrus fruits, cherries, green tea, coffee, red wine, and capers. It’s also available as a dietary supplement in powder and capsule form.

What is quercetin & what is it used for?

Quercetin is a plant flavonol from the flavonoid group of polyphenols. It is found in many fruits, vegetables, leaves, seeds, and grains; capers, red onions, and kale are common foods containing appreciable amounts of it. It has a bitter flavor and is used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, beverages, and foods.

What are the side effects of quercetin?

Recommended adult dosages of quercetin vary depending on the condition being treated. Quercetin is generally considered safe. Side effects may include headache and upset stomach. Preliminary evidence suggests that a byproduct of quercetin can lead to a loss of protein function. Very high doses of quercetin may damage the kidneys.

Where can I buy quercetin?

Quercetin can often be purchased online or at health food stores. When taking quercetin in supplement form, choosing a product that also contains papain and/or bromelain may be beneficial. These plant-derived enzymes (fruit extracts) are shown to increase the intestine's absorption of quercetin.

Where can I find quercetin?

You can also find quercetin in certain herbal remedies, such as St John’s wort and gingko biloba. How much quercetin is safe to take? You should be able to get plenty of quercetin from eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables. However, if you prefer to take a supplement, doses of 500-1000mg a day are considered safe. 12

Is quercetin an antioxidant?

Quercetin belongs to a group of plant pigments called flavonoids that give many fruits, flowers, and vegetables their colors. Flavonoids, such as quercetin, are antioxidants. They scavenge particles in the body known as free radicals which damage cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals.

Quercetin References

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