Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Quercetin is a plant-derived flavonoid widely recognized for its antioxidant properties. Scientific evidence supports its role in mitigating free radical damage, primarily through in vitro and animal studies. Quercetin acts as a potent scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS), neutralizing free radicals and thereby reducing oxidative stress. Multiple studies have shown that quercetin can protect cell membranes and biomolecules such as DNA and lipids from oxidative damage. For example, a review published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity (2016) summarized the antioxidant mechanisms of quercetin, highlighting its ability to chelate metal ions, upregulate endogenous antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase, and interrupt free radical chain reactions.

However, while laboratory and animal studies are promising, evidence from human clinical trials is less robust. Some small-scale human studies suggest that quercetin supplementation can decrease biomarkers of oxidative stress, especially in individuals with higher baseline oxidative damage (such as athletes or people with metabolic syndrome). Nonetheless, large, well-controlled human trials are limited, and the bioavailability of quercetin in the human body is relatively low, which may impact its effectiveness. Overall, quercetin’s use for supporting or treating free radical damage is scientifically justified, with a moderate level of evidence based mainly on preclinical research, and growing but still limited clinical validation.

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Other ingredients used for Free Radical Damage

Other health conditions supported by quercetin

Products containing quercetin

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