Quercetin with Bromelain for Hives Treatment 2023

Hives, also known as urticaria, are itchy, generalised, raised red discolouration that are found on the skin. They are usually red, pink, or flesh-colored, and sometimes they sting or hurt. In most cases, hives are caused by an allergic reaction to a medication or food or a reaction to an irritant in the environment.

In many cases, hives are an acute (temporary) problem that may be alleviated with allergy medications. Most rashes go away on their own. As with any allergic reaction, if hives are accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, this can be a sign of a much more severe and serious anaphylactic reaction. This requires immediate emergency medical attention to treat. Please see your doctor and go to thenearest 24 hr emergency clinic or hospital immediately.

However, chronic hives can occur over and over. In some cases, the red lesions can result from an allergic reaction to the food you eat.

Dr Deborah Gordon recommends trying a food elimination diet to pinpoint the source of the problem. Thus, if you get rid of the source, you won’t have to worry about treating the hives.

Quercetin with Bromelain for Hives

Antihistamine drugs also stop the release of the histamines that cause the hives in an allergic reaction. However, people who suffer from chronic hives don’t usually want to take medication for months or years if they don’t have to.

For this reason, some allergy sufferers turn to natural alternatives such as quercetin; that works by stabilizing the membranes of cells that release histamine. This often helps brings inflammatory and allergic reactions under control. You can buy quercetin products in natural foods stores or Amazon. The best form is a coated 400 mg tablet, taken twice a day between meals; as recommended by Dr Andrew Weil. It can take six to eight weeks of continuous use for quercetin to build up to therapeutic levels in the body.

What Is Quercetin?

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid – a plant pigment that gives plants and fruits their color – that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

Quercetin, found concentrated in foods such as onions and apples, reduces the manufacture and release of histamine and other allergic and inflammatory mediators. This flavonoid is also a potent antioxidant and may help protect against diseases like heart disease and cancer.

It is an antioxidant that belongs to a class of water-soluble plant substances called flavonoids, which are present in certain fruits and vegetables. According to an article in Current Research in Nutrition and Food Science, the bioavailability of quercetin absorbed by your body varies, depending on the source where you get it, as well as your individual body’s metabolism of it. Sugar and dietary fat and fiber also affect it.

While the best way to get quercetin is through your diet, it also is available in supplement form, as pills or capsules. Sometimes, quercetin in supplement form is packaged with bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, because both have anti-inflammatory properties (Quercetin & Bromelain for inflammation). Most dietary supplements contain a chemical compound, aglycone, which is the free form of quercetin.

When looking for and using quercetin supplements, it’s important to maintain a nutritious, balanced diet with fiber and healthy fats in it, as research shows that accumulation of quercetin in the body is dependent on “factors such as glucose moieties, solubility, human factor, vitamin C status and food matrix.”

Benefits of Quercetin

- Possessing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties that can help combat certain diseases. One study found that 500 mg of quercetin a day could improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

- Helping prevent cancer cell growth from breast, colon, prostate, endometrial and lung.

- Counteracting allergic reactions and helping with immune responses.

- Helping to prevent osteoporosis

- Addressing cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s and dementia.

- Assisting in control of blood pressure. A study in 2002 found that quercetin can have vasodilator effects.

- Potentially helping to lower blood sugar levels. One study found that dosages of 500 mg per day “significantly reduced” fasting glucose levels.

What is Bromelain?

Bromelain, or pineapple extract, is a compound made up of proteases normally found in pineapples. Although it is widely known for its ability to aid in digestion and protein breakdown, its use far transcends these functions and can actually offer a lot more. The good news is that it's available in the market as a supplement and as an aid for disease treatments.

The history of bromelain is heavily linked to pineapple because it is the only known major source for this group of enzymes. First discovered in 1891 by chemist Vicente Marcano and then subsequently elaborated by Russell Henry Chittenden, another chemist, bromelain was first called "bromelin," and described as the "proteolytic ferment of pineapple juice."

Its first primary source was the pineapple fruit, before it was discovered that the mature pineapple stem had much more concentrated bromelain content.

Through the years after its discovery, the production of bromelain has broadened. Its commercialization has led manufacturers into developing faster extraction techniques for large-scale production and purification. Today, bromelain supplements are used for numerous health approaches.

These uses have been observed to be dependent on the time when it is taken. For example, if taken after a meal, bromelain may help promote better digestion and absorption, but when taken on an empty stomach, it can help alleviate inflammation.(Daily Mail)

Benefits of Bromelain

As a protease enzyme, the primary benefit bromelain has is improving protein absorption. However, bromelain has been widely used to promote healing and assist in the treatment of numerous diseases. For example, if you're suffering from chronic inflammation or from sports injuries, consider taking bromelain supplements to help your body recover. Other bromelain benefits that you'll get from this supplement include:

• Reduces inflammation and swelling — Bromelain may help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatism. It's also used to help in sprain and strain recovery by reducing swelling and promote tissue healing. For people who are currently on arthritis medications, consider switching to bromelain for a more natural alternative.

• Improves immune function — Studies show that bromelain promotes a healthy immune system by regulating numerous inflammatory proteins during periods of cellular stress.

• Speeds up wound healing — The use of bromelain post-surgery has been observed to promote soft-tissue healing and reduce bruising. Patients who took bromelain also had shorter wound healing time compared to patients who did not.

• Relieves sinusitis symptoms — Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of the inner lining of the sinuses, which is usually caused by infections, nasal problems or allergies. Bromelain is a known supplement for relieving sinusitis symptoms. Together with quercetin, bromelain can help alleviate sinus inflammation, with quercetin functioning as an antihistamine. 

• Promotes blood flow — Bromelain helps in promoting healthy blood flow by reducing platelet aggregation in the arteries and lowering the chances of clots forming. This may lower your risk of developing atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

There are also claims that bromelain can help induce menstruation by softening the uterine lining. The increased blood flow also supposedly helps in the prevention of menstrual cramps.

Because of the impressive components of bromelain, it's not surprising that it's been utilized in treating or reducing the severity of disease symptoms. While it is usually prescribed or recommended for patients who have undergone surgery or people suffering from chronic sinusitis, bromelain can also be used in other ways. These include:

• Topical application for burns — Studies suggest that bromelain can help remove dead skin cells from third degree burns and assist in burn healing in first and second degree burns. For severe burns, do not apply any bromelain ointment without a physician's supervision.

• Indigestion and heartburn — Taking bromelain has been known to assist in easing indigestion and bloating, especially when taken with other supplemental enzymes.

• Soothing balm for insect bites and stings — Applying bromelain directly to insect bites and stings may lessen inflammation and discomfort.

• Meat tenderizer — Pineapple has been used in cooking to soften meats. Today, bromelain is sold in powder form as a meat tenderizer and is usually combined with papain, an enzyme found in the papaya plant. In fact, bromelain is such a strong meat tenderizer that chefs and cooks claim it can turn meat into mush if left marinated for longer periods of time.

Bromelain and Quercetin: Uses & Benefits

Studies have shown that systemic enzymes for inflammation (like bromelain) combined with quercetin, produce greater anti-inflammatory benefits than either one used alone. Thus, the combination of bromelain and quercetin is ideal for effectively inhibiting the inflammatory response in both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Both bromelain and quercetin supplements are relatively easy to find. But these products are typically sold in combination with other enzymes (e.g., papain, amylase) or antioxidants (vitamin C), and are not as effective in relieving inflammation.

Of the bromelain-only formulations available, many do not provide sufficient dosages to be effective as an anti-inflammatory. Additionally, most of these formulations do not contain quercetin which works with the bromelain to increase the efficacy of both.

Since bromelain and quercetin are recommended to be taken together for maximum anti-inflammatory benefit, formulas that contain both ingredients are ideal. This also simplifies the dosing schedule and reduces the total number of capsules needed to be taken throughout the day.

 

Quercetin vs Quercetin and Bromelain

Studies have shown that enzyme like bromelain combined with quercetin, produce greater anti-inflammatory benefits vs quercetin used alone. Thus, the combination of bromelain and quercetin is ideal for effectively inhibiting the inflammatory response in both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Since bromelain and quercetin are recommended to be taken together for maximum anti-inflammatory benefit, formulas that contain both ingredients are ideal. This also simplifies the dosing schedule and reduces the total number of capsules needed to be taken throughout the day.

Best Quercetin and Bromelain Supplements

1. Double Wood Quercetin with Bromelain

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- 120 Count (60 day supply)
- Aids in Supporting Healthy Immune Functions in Men and Women
- Vegan Safe, GMO free, Gluten Free
- Made in USA

- Supports Immune Defense: Double Wood Supplements' Quercetin with Bromelain Capsules are made from plant flavonoids that are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables.

- Superior Allergy Support: Quercetin with Bromelain capsules are known to aid in easing allergies by reducing the release of histamines and by supporting the reduction of inflammation in the respiratory system, aiding in relieving common allergy ailments such as runny noses, itchy eyes, and itchy throats in adults.

- Fast Absorption With Bromelain: Bromelain is commonly used on its own as a digestive aid but studies show taking Bromelain with Quercetin dramatically increases the absorption and potency of the Quercetin.

Review

Hives x 3 months with very little sleep. Everytime I ate hives appeared on my arms and legs. Living in extreme misery. Doc gave me medrol dose pack h1 and h2 histamines. Added colustrum, betaine hcl (5-6 caplets each meal) and lastly quercertin. Modern meds did little to nothing. Colustrum and Betaine hcl offered noticiable improvement. Quercertin arrived today. Took 2 Quercetin had a snack short time later and I am happy to report no hives. Absolutely none. I am hopeful there is restful sleep in the very near future. Hoping this helps with RA inflammation as well. Will update end on week. Thank you for making this very awesome product!!

Ratings

4.7 out of 5 - more than 2,000 global ratings

2. Herbal Secrets Quercetin Bromelain

 

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- Quercetin 800 Mg with Bromelain 165 Mg
- 120 Veggie Capsules (Non-GMO)
- Supports Cardiovascular & Immune Health, Supports Healthy inflammatory Response- Manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
- Made in USA
- Third Party Tested
- No Artificial ingredients, Stearates, Sulphates, Dioxides and Laurates

Review
I have been looking for a treatment for my chronic hives. I bought this after reading about the ingredients. I have been taking it for 2 weeks and can already tell a difference. Hives are still there, but they are less red and itchy, by about 75%. I hope that the longer I take it, the better it will work. So excited to have at least some relief naturally.

Ratings
4.6 out of 5 - more than 1,000 global ratings

3. MoxyVites Quercetin 500mg with Bromelain Supplement

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- Bioactive Phytosome Complex
- Pure Organic Whole Food Seasonal Support
- Healthy Inflammatory Response
-120 Caps
- Plant Based
- Made in USA
- Quercetin, Phytosome, Bromelain
- All Natural, Organic, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Non GMO, No Artificial or Synthetic Ingredients
- GMP certified facility, THIRD PARTY TESTED!

- IMPROVED ORAL ABSORPTION BY 20X
> Regular quercetin has poor solubility and low oral absorption. Our technology binds quercetin with a glucose bond & incorporation of phospholipids into standardized extracts improving the absorption and bioavailability by 20X. If you settle for regular quercetin your body may only absorb 20% with minimal to no benefit.

- BIOACTIVE FORM OF QUERCETIN
> Our complex delivery system utilizes phytosome technology in which phytoconstituents react with phospholipids for better and improved bioavailability. Our quercetin is one of the most effective on the market today!

- NATURAL SEASONAL RELIEF
> Nutritional support from carefully selected WHOLE FOODS containing the highest amounts of quercetin with powerful antioxidants. Backed by science to provide all year support for individuals with allergies

- POWERFUL BENEFITS
> Powerful antioxidant, healthy inflammatory responses, boost the immune system, reduce histamines and skin irritations, supports cardiovascular & cellular health.

- PHARMACEUTICAL GRADE: 
> Highly bioavailable & Potent 500mg serving with 120 capsules in a bottle. 

Ratings: 4.9 out of 5 - more than 700 global ratings on Amazon

Review
This is the best quercetin I found on the market! It was a revelation to me to discover that regular quercetin is difficult for the body to absorb. After doing my research I discovered that quercetin phytosome has much greater absorption and is therefore more effective. I have been taking this for over a month and my allergy symptoms have been reduced tremendously. In addition, this company added specific Whole Foods that contain the highest amount of added quercetin for additional quercetin benefits. Besides allergies I also take this for it’s high anti oxidants and many other health benefits. I love this brand and I will continue to buy their products.

4. Amazing Formulas - Quercetin 500 Mg

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Amazon Best Sellers: #1 Best Seller in Flavonoid Vitamin Supplements. 4.7 out of 5 overall rating with more than 12,000 customer reviews.

- Quercetin is a flavonoid (plant pigment) naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It is found in many foods, such as red wine, onions, green tea, apples, berries etc. It known for its Anti-oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Amazing Nutrition Quercetin 500 Mg is offered in Veggie Capsule to suit most diet preferences
- Anti-oxidant properties of Qurecetine Supports Healthy Ageing, Cardiovascular Health, and Immune Health. It helps to reduce the damage and irritation caused by free radicals
- Anti-Inflammatory properties of Quercetin helps to lower the release of histamines, a compound that is released by cells in response to allergic and inflammatory reactions. Subsequently helping to lower pains and discomfort related to Inflammation.
- All Amazing Nutrition products are manufactured in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), among the highest standards in the world.

Review

I've been sick twice in the past two months, one a mild cold, the other quite severe, DID NOT GET TESTED so can not attest to Covid 19. Anyway, once I got sick, I took 1000mg of Quercetin, combined with 200mg of Zinc Picolinate - ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE: I was free and clear of symptoms in the range of 6 to 10 hours, save for a lingering itch in my sinuses, which was gone after a good nights sleep. Symptoms did not return in either case. This was ONE DOSE.

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 - more than 15,000 global ratings

5. Forest Leaf Quercetin, Bromelain, Stinging Nettle, Vitamin C

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Uniquely formulated using a blend of quercetin and bromelain, this supplement from ForestLeaf may help with sinus relief, allergies, cardiovascular and respiratory health.

- Advanced Sinus and Allergy Supplement 

- Natural Vegetable Capsules 

- Non GMO, Dairy, Gluten, Egg and Nut Free 

- Every pill contains stinging nettle leaf extract. 

- All of its products and pills are tested for maximum absorption. 

- 45 servings per bottle, 200mg of vitamin C per serving.

Ingredients

Vitamin C 200mg, Quercetin 500mg, Stinging Nettle Leaf 500mg, Bromelain 150mg, Vegetable Cellulose (capsule), Microcrystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate and Silicon Dioxide

Review

I have year round allergies and lately what I had been taking wasn't working and my eyes were always running. It was extremely annoying and frustrating to be crying from one eye all day. I read the reviews and decided to try this. I've been taking them twice a day since March 1st and I stopped crying the first day. I love these natural pills. They work!!!!

Ratings

4.6 out of 5 - more than 2,000 global ratings

6. Thorne Research Quercenase

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Quercenase is a combination of quercetin phytosome and bromelain. Quercetin phytosome is a new food-grade lecithin-based formulation of quercetin, was developed to overcome the low bioavailability hurdle of quercetin. Phytosome complexes are created by a patented process that binds a botanical extract to a phospholipid (phosphatidylcholine), which are key components of every cell membrane.

- Each capsule contains 250 mg of quercetin phytosome and 100 mg of bromelain.

- BestReviews.com: Pricier than many similar products on the market

- Amazon Best Sellers: #11 Best Seller in Flavonoid Vitamin Supplements

- Our Take: If you are looking to buy from a reputable brand, this would be your choice.

Review

I have histamine intolerance and had spent many years taking prescription and OTC drugs. I wanted to get away from drugs and my functional medicine doctor recommended d-hist. It worked on my allergies but I would get migraines if I took it too often. I think it was the nettles. Anyway, I also didn't like that they used magnesium stearate. I bought this and it works just as well as my Claritin did. I get relief from runny nose and sneezing as well as itchy skin. I will sometimes add some extra bromelain but I am very happy. Thorne products are often more expensive but they use better ingredients and omit questionable ingredients that make production cheaper

Ratings: 4.8 out of 5 - more than 150 global ratings

7. MT Angel Vitamins - Quercetin Zinc Immune Support Supplement

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- Contains Vitamins C & D3, Stinging Nettle Root and Bromelain
- Immune Boost to Fight Flare-Ups, Improve Respiratory Health & Energy
- Quercetin with vitamin C and zinc are proven not only to provide immune support but also to improve metabolism, circulatory supporty, and cognitive clarity.
- By fostering cellular functioning, these antioxidants enhance respiratory health and energy levels so you can enjoy activities.
- GMP-certified supplements
- Gluten-free, no GMO and vegetarian, your quercetin supplement defends systems with organic elements

Ratings: 4.7 out of 5 - more than 1,000 global ratings

Review: My husband read the Swiss protocol for Covid 19 preventative and this has it all. So far so good no problems. No bad taste easy to swallow, our 12yr old son even has no problem.

8. Whole Food Quercetin Plus

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>- Quercetin with Bromelain-Zinc-Vitamin C-Ginger-Bioflavonoids- Organic Whole Foods- Immune, Cardiovascular & Respiratory System Support- Natural Antioxidant- Vegan, Non-GMO- 180 Caps, 90 servings-Immunity supporting properties, improves healthy seasonal immune system function, and reduces inflammation.  - May help improve your daily health by aiding exercise performance, improving digestion, helping respiratory health, give your immune system the boost it needs, and enhance cognitive function.
- FREE from GMO, Alcohol, Preservatives, Soy Lecithin, Gelatin, Dairy, Sugar, Gluten, Shellfish, Nuts, Wheat, Stearates, Silicon Dioxide, fillers, Artificial Ingredients. 
- Manufactured in the USA. Made in a GMP-certified facility in the USA. Third-party tested. 

Nutrients
Quercetin 500 mg + 175 mg of Organic Whole Food Quercetin Blend (4 Organic Whole Food Quercetin source ingredients) + 15 mg of Zinc Picolinate + 200 mg of Bromelain from Pineapple + 100 mg of Organic Ginger Root + 125 mg of Vitamin C from Organic Acerola Cherries + 100 mg of Citrus Bioflavonoids from Organic Orange & Organic Lemon

Review: I am able to do much more before having to take a rest break. Also I have notice a very marked drop in BG an hour after taking. Definitely recommend.

Quercetin and Bromelain Side Effects

According to WebMD, quercetin is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth on a short-term basis. Quercetin has been safely used in amounts up to 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. It is not known if long-term use or higher doses are safe.

When taken by mouth, quercetin could cause headache and tingling of the arms and legs. Very high doses might cause kidney damage.

According to Brent Bauer, M.D., at the Mayo Clinic, “Bromelain, the enzyme from the pineapple, may have anti-platelet activity. So for people taking blood thinners or who have anti-platelet activity, theoretically there could be increased risk of bleeding.”

Those who are taking blood thinners or have concern about the adverse effects of bromelain, should consider quercetin supplements that do not contain bromelain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quercetin

Q: Inflammation vs allergies vs hives vs sinusitis?

Confused? In general, there are two types of allergies; generalised and local. Hives are generalised allergies, could be triggered by food (e.g. peanuts) or antibiotics or certain medications. Local allergies instead affect a certain area of the body e.g. scalp (allergic to hair dye) or face (allergic to certain make-up).

Allergies are triggered by allergens (an allergen is normally a foreign substance that can cause an allergic reaction) leading to inflammation. However, inflammation can also be triggered not only by allergens but also by bacterial or viral infections.

For example an acne is a skin infection with inflammation. Inflammation associated with an infection is not considered an allergy. Therefore, the treatment approach is different.

Sinusitis basically means inflammation of the nasal sinuses (refer to the figure above). It could be related to an allergy or infection.

Q: What Foods are High in Quercetin?

There are foods high in quercetin that you can add to your diet. Arguably, red onions are some of the most potent sources of quercetin; one study found that absorption of onion-derived quercetin was 52% compared to only 24% in supplement form. In fact, onions can give you three times the amount of quercetin than you’d get from apples. Other food sources that are high in quercetin include:

- Organically grown apples, grapes and tomatoes

- Dark cherries and dark berries like blueberries, blackberries and bilberries (eaten in moderation)

- Cocoa, unsweetened

- Hot green chili peppers

- Lingonberries

Q: What are the Dosages for Quercetin and Bromelain?

Bromelain Dosage: Look for MCUs (Milk Clotting Units)

Unlike many vitamins and minerals, which are measured by weight (e.g., mg or mcg), bromelain is measured by either milk clotting units (MCUs) or gelatin dissolving units (GDUs).

As a result, the best measure of a bromelain-containing supplement’s efficacy is based on MCUs or GDUs and not milligrams.

MCUs and GDUs are used somewhat interchangeably (1 GDU equals 1.5 MCU) and relate to the activity level of the bromelain. Since bromelain is an enzyme, a measure of its strength is how quickly it can breakdown a protein. 

To be effective, at least 3,000 MCUs of bromelain must be consumed in divided amounts during the course of a day.

To ensure that the bromelain works on the site of injury and not in aiding digestion, it is best to take it on an empty stomach.

Quercetin Dosage: 500 - 2,500 mg

For quercetin, dosing is measured in milligrams (mg). The recommended dosage varies based on the type and extent of the issue to be treated. Dosages can range from 500 – 2,500 mg per day, in divided doses.

According to WebMD, quercetin is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth on a short-term basis. Quercetin has been safely used in amounts up to 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. It is not known if long-term use or higher doses are safe.

Q: Bromelain and Quercetin: Before or After a Surgical Procedure?

Bromelain should be taken 72 hours or 3 days prior to surgery. Bromelain should be continued for 7 days following surgery. Following trauma or injury, Bromelain should be started as quickly as possible and continued for 10 days.

Whether you are trying to hide the visible signs of post-procedure swelling, or are simply recovering from an injury, bromelain and quercetin are the best natural anti-inflammatory supplements to get you on the road to recovery.

Q: What are the best foods for quercetin?

A: Capers, peppers (yellow and green), onions (red and white), shallots, asparagus, cherries, tomatoes, red apples, red grapes, broccoli, kale, red leaf lettuce, cranberries, blueberries, raspberries, green tea, black tea, and coffee are all excellent foods for quercetin.

Q: Do you get enough quercetin in your daily diet?

A: The average person gets 10 to 100 mg of quercetin per day through normal dietary sources. This can vary greatly. Carefully track your diet over an extended period to figure out if you have a dietary deficiency of quercetin.

Q: How much quercetin should you take per day?

A: Researchers typically use a dose of 500 mg of quercetin per day in supplement form. Most quercetin supplements contain between 500 and 1200 mg of quercetin, although this can vary. Check out the nutritional label for your quercetin supplement to be sure.

Q: Does quercetin help allergies?

A: Many people take quercetin supplements to avoid allergy symptoms. There’s evidence that quercetin has powerful anti-allergy benefits, although more research needs to be done.

Q: Does quercetin fight cancer?

A: Early research in test tube and animal models shows that quercetin may have cancer-fighting properties. While these findings are promising, more large scale human studies need to be performed. Research is not definitive. Consult your physician before using any supplement to improve your cancer.

Q: Does quercetin reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s?

A: Studies show that quercetin may reduce the onset of Alzheimer’s, particularly in the early and middle stages of the condition. However, studies have mostly been performed on mice and test tubes – not in humans.

Q: What are other names for quercetin?

A: Quercetin goes by a number of different names. You might see quercetin supplements labeled as bioflavonoid concentrate, bioflavonoid extract, or citrus bioflavonoid, for example.

Q: Can quercetin help you recover after exercise?

A: Some studies show that quercetin boosts recovery after exercise. In some small studies, athletes taking quercetin after exercise had faster recovery than a control group. Researchers believe quercetin reduces oxidative stress and post-exercise inflammation, helping your body recover.

Q: What are the side effects of quercetin?

A: Most people experience no side effects from quercetin, and any side effects tend to be mild. Quercetin side effects include tingling and numbness, headache, and nausea. Your chance of experiencing side effects increases at higher dosages (over 1,000mg).

Q: Why do so many quercetin supplements contain bromelain?

A: Bromelain is a naturally occurring, protein-digesting enzyme found in the stem of the pineapple. Bromelain seems to boost the absorption of quercetin by inhibiting inflammatory chemicals called prostaglandins. Bromelain may also decrease inflammation on its own.

Your body doesn’t absorb quercetin very effectively on its own. Some studies have shown that bromelain boosts the absorption of quercetin, which is why you find bromelain (or vitamin C) in many quercetin supplements.

Q: What’s the difference between rutin or glycosidic quercetin?

A: Quercetin is found in two forms, including in rutin or glycosidic form. Quercetin glucosides, such as isoquercitrin and isoquercetin, seem to be much more bioavailable and more quickly absorbed than quercetin aglycone or quercetin glycosides, such as rutin (quercetin rutinoside).

Q: Can you overdose on quercetin?

A: In one study, researchers gave participants 2,000mg to 5,000mg of quercetin per day with no adverse effects or signs of toxicity reported. Generally, quercetin is safe to take even in high doses, although you may experience mild side effects like nausea, digestive issues, and headaches at high doses. Excessively high doses of quercetin could lead to kidney problems.

Q: How much quercetin should you take for hay fever?

A: Experts recommend taking 400mg of quercetin twice a day between meals for hay fever. Also consult your doctor to help provide a more comprehensive and effective treatment for hay fever.

Q: Can children take quercetin?

A: Most studies suggest that it’s safe to give quercetin to your child, although you should use only half the dose you'd use on an adult. Talk to your pediatrician before giving any quercetin to your child.

Q: How does quercetin manage allergy symptoms?

A: Studies have shown that quercetin stabilizes mast cells that release histamine. Histamine is the principal mediator of reactions to pollen and other allergies. This makes quercetin a natural antihistamine. Many people use quercetin to treat symptoms of hay fever, including runny nose, watering eyes, and itching.

Q: Can you take too much quercetin?

A: You should start with a quercetin dosage of around 500mg per day to assess your tolerance. However, researchers have given participants up to 5,000mg of quercetin per day with few reported side effects. Look for symptoms like upset stomach and diarrhea. Excessively high doses of quercetin could lead to kidney problems.

Q: Who should not take a quercetin supplement?

A: Quercetin appears safe for anyone to take when used in normal dosages. However, there’s limited research on how quercetin supplements affect women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with high blood pressure, or anyone taking blood pressure medication, may also want to take to their doctor before taking a quercetin supplement.

Q: Can you take a quercetin supplement with a pineapple allergy?

A: If you’re allergic to pineapples, you should avoid quercetin supplements with bromelain. Bromelain, an enzyme in pineapples, is added to quercetin supplements to boost bioavailability. Overuse of bromelain can create problems for consumers.

Q: Does quercetin work for anti-aging?

A: Several studies have examined the effect of quercetin on aging. Quercetin is rich with anti-inflammatories and antioxidants, which could make it a powerful anti-aging compound. 

Q: Does quercetin help asthma?

A: Quercetin may help asthma by relaxing smooth muscles lining the airway, improving airway flow.

Q: What’s better – quercetin tablets, capsules, powders, or liquid?

A: Quercetin liquid claims to be more bioavailable than other sources of quercetin. You take the liquid sublingually (underneath your tongue). However, limited research shows quercetin capsules or powders are more effective, and all forms of quercetin are absorbed poorly by the body.

Q: Where does quercetin come from?

A: Most supplement companies use various plant or vegetable-based sources of quercetin. Check the label.

Q: Can you get citrus-free quercetin?

A: Some quercetin supplements are specifically marketed as citrus-free, making them ideal for those with citrus sensitivities. Read the label or official product website for your supplement to be sure that it is actually citrus-free.

Q: Does quercetin help with diabetes?

A: There’s some evidence that quercetin helps with diabetes, helping your body manage blood sugar levels during fasting. However, more research needs to be done to verify these benefits.

Q: Is quercetin non-GMO?

A: Quercetin supplements are generally labeled non-GMO. Check the label to verify your quercetin supplement is not made from genetically modified ingredients.

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