Synopsis

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

Quercetin, a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, has attracted scientific interest for its potential neuroprotective and antidepressant properties. Current evidence supporting its use for depression is based primarily on preclinical studies in animal models, where quercetin has been shown to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects that may be relevant to the pathophysiology of depression. For example, several rodent studies have demonstrated that quercetin administration can reduce depressive-like behaviors in standardized tests (such as the forced swim test and tail suspension test), possibly by modulating neurotransmitter levels (e.g., serotonin, dopamine), reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting neuroinflammation. Additionally, quercetin may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is often dysregulated in depression. However, clinical evidence in humans is very limited. Only a few small studies and pilot trials have explored the effects of quercetin supplementation on mood or depressive symptoms, and their results are preliminary and not definitive. No major clinical guidelines recommend quercetin for depression, and more robust, large-scale human trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some preclinical evidence for quercetin’s potential antidepressant effects, the current level of evidence is weak (rated 2/5), and its use for depression cannot be broadly endorsed without further research.

More about quercetin
More about Depression

Other ingredients used for Depression

Other health conditions supported by quercetin

Products containing quercetin

Nature's Sunshine HistaBlock
Nature's Sunshine Perfect Eyes
Nature's Sunshine Power Greens
Nature's Sunshine Power Greens To-Go
Nature's Sunshine Super ORAC
Nature's Sunshine Super Trio