Quercetin is a plant pigment (flavonoid) found in many plants and foods, such as red wine, onions, green tea, apples, and berries. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that might help reduce swelling, kill cancer cells, control blood sugar, and help prevent heart disease. Here are some positive and negative effects of quercetin:
Positive effects:
- May reduce inflammation: Quercetins antioxidant properties have been linked to potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
- May ease allergy symptoms: Quercetins potential anti-inflammatory properties may provide allergy symptom relief.
- May reduce symptoms of prostatitis: Preliminary evidence indicates that quercetin might reduce symptoms of prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate.
Negative effects:
- Headache: Taking more than 1,000 mg of quercetin per day may cause mild symptoms like headaches.
- Upset stomach: Side effects may include upset stomach.
- Tingling in the arms and legs: Quercetin supplementation isnt known to be toxic or cause serious issues, but tingling in the arms and legs may occur.
- Kidney problems: Quercetin might make kidney problems worse, so it should not be used if you have kidney problems.
- Loss of protein function: Preliminary evidence suggests that a byproduct of quercetin can lead to a loss of protein function.
- Interactions with medications: Quercetin might change how quickly the liver breaks down certain medications, which could change their effects and side effects.
It is important to note that quercetin is generally considered safe, but pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and people with kidney disease should avoid it. If you are considering taking quercetin supplements, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional first.
