Evidence supporting the use of: Quercetin
For the health condition: Allergies (respiratory)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, has been investigated for its potential role in alleviating respiratory allergies such as allergic rhinitis and asthma. The scientific interest in quercetin for allergies stems from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to stabilize mast cells, the immune cells responsible for releasing histamine and other mediators during allergic reactions.

Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that quercetin can inhibit the release of histamine and decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. For example, research published in International Immunopharmacology (2016) showed that quercetin reduced airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in a mouse model of asthma. Additionally, quercetin has been shown to suppress IgE-mediated allergic responses, which are central to many respiratory allergies.

However, clinical evidence in humans is limited. Some small trials suggest benefits in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis, but the results are inconsistent and larger, high-quality studies are needed to confirm efficacy and determine appropriate dosing. Safety profiles are generally favorable at dietary intake levels, but the effects of high-dose supplementation over time are not fully established.

In summary, while there is promising preclinical evidence and some limited clinical support for quercetin’s use in respiratory allergies, robust human data are lacking. Thus, its use is justified primarily by scientific rationale with modest supporting evidence from early-stage research.

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