Q&A: Quercetin & Allergies

Allergies can be considered an arch nemesis for those who fall victim to their vicious effects.  Between watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing, allergies can make us feel like our immune systems are out of control! And while there are common over-the-counter medications that can provide some relief from those symptoms, there is also a naturally-occurring nutrient that you can find in everyday food items to help with prevention of AND defense against allergy symptoms.  

Let me introduce you to Quercetin!

Quercetin is a plant nutrient, AKA a flavonoid, found in various vegetables and fruits.  It helps to provide these plants with some of their beautiful, pigmented colors. Outside of the benefits it provides to plants, Quercetin is also extremely useful for humans and the allergies we face.  Quercetin has the special ability to tone down the chaos produced by our immune systems during allergic reactions.  It’s been shown to stabilize the mast cells that produce histamine, the signal your immune system receives when allergens have invaded your space. Stabilized mast cells mean controlled & reduced histamine production, which ultimately means less severe allergy symptoms.

Now that you are clear on how helpful Quercetin can be, what’s the best way to get it?  While Quercetin supplements exist, they should be explored with caution and via consultation with a medical professional because of their ability to counteract with certain prescription drugs that treat conditions like Diabetes and Hypertension. Quite naturally, including Quercetin-rich foods like apples, berries, grapes, dark chocolate, broccoli, peppers, and onions in your diet is a safer way to ensure adequate intake to boost immunity.  Herbal green and black teas also provide noticeable amounts of Quercetin and those of us who enjoy an occasional adult beverage will be happy to learn that some red wines also contain Quercetin. So it’s quite possible that a glass of wine per day keeps the allergies away! Just remember to drink responsibly and in moderation!

References:

Cherney, Kristeen. “Quercetin: What It Is, How Much You Need, and Where to Find It.” EverydayHealth.com, 15 Apr. 2022, https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/quercetin-what-it-is-how-much-you-need-and-where-to-find-it/. 

“Quercetin.” Health Library, Mount Sinai Health System, https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/quercetin. 

Sissons, Beth, and Tom Rush. “Quercetin: Health Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 6 July 2022, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324170#8-benefits.