Evidence supporting the use of: Quercetin
For the health condition: Dementia

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Synopsis

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

Quercetin is a plant flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, and it has attracted scientific interest for its potential neuroprotective effects, including in the context of dementia. The rationale for its use in dementia is primarily based on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as oxidative stress and inflammation are believed to contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Preclinical studies, particularly in animal models, have shown that quercetin can reduce beta-amyloid plaque formation, decrease neuronal cell death, and improve cognitive performance. For example, several mouse studies have demonstrated that quercetin supplementation can improve learning and memory deficits induced by neurotoxic agents or genetic manipulation.

However, evidence in humans remains limited. There have been few clinical trials directly evaluating quercetin for dementia or cognitive decline, and those that exist are generally small and preliminary. A review of the literature suggests some promise but emphasizes the need for larger, well-designed human studies. Quercetin is not recognized as a standard treatment for dementia, and most claims are extrapolated from basic science research rather than robust clinical evidence. Therefore, while the use of quercetin for dementia is justified by scientific hypotheses and some preclinical support, the current level of clinical evidence is low (rated 2/5).

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