Evidence supporting the use of: Quercetin
For the health condition: Contagious Diseases

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Synopsis

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

Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables and is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties. Its use in supporting or treating contagious diseases, especially viral infections, has been the subject of increasing scientific interest, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Several laboratory studies and small clinical trials have demonstrated that quercetin can inhibit the replication of various viruses in vitro, including influenza, rhinovirus, and some coronaviruses. The proposed mechanisms include inhibition of viral entry, suppression of viral enzymes, and modulation of host immune responses. In addition, quercetin's anti-inflammatory effects may help mitigate the cytokine storm associated with severe viral infections.

However, the clinical evidence supporting quercetin's efficacy in treating contagious diseases in humans is limited and inconsistent. A few randomized controlled trials have suggested that quercetin supplementation may reduce the incidence and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, but these studies are generally small and may suffer from methodological limitations. As of mid-2024, no large, high-quality clinical trials definitively confirm quercetin's effectiveness for any specific contagious disease. Thus, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, quercetin should not be considered a proven treatment for contagious diseases. It is best viewed as a potential adjunct, pending further research.

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