Natural Nutritional Supplement

Source:  Sophora japonica

Family:   Fabaceae  (pea)

Common Name:  Polyphenolic flavonoid, Bioflavonoid, Pentapentahydroxyflavone

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid (sometimes called vitamin P) that is packed with natural antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antiallergenic qualities.  Normally found in highly nutritious foods and plants, such as citrus, red apples, teas, broccoli and onions, etc., you can easily take it in a supplement form; and because the human body cannot produce bioflavonoids, they must be supplied in the diet - and you should supply them to maximize sound health!   Quercetin increases the production of collagen and fibronectin, which is good news for those of us who want smoother skin with fewer wrinkles.   Recent studies show that bioflavonoids may be a big factor in preventing invasive malignant infection and serious illness.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Herbal Extracts Plus is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

Background:
Quercetin is a bioflavonoid, an important member of a large group of compounds that are found in many herbs and plants, including Onions (thought to have the largest amount), Broccoli, Citrus fruits (especially the white material just beneath the peel of citrus fruits), Grapes, teas (especially Green Tea), Blue-green Algae, Red Apples, Red Wine and many others.  Although not a real vitamin in the true sense, it is sometimes referred to as vitamin P, a so-called vitamin that maintains the resistance of cell and capillary walls to permeation.  As a matter of fact, the letter "P" represents the permeability factor, and it was given to this group of nutrients because they improve capillary strength with emphasis on permeability.  Bioflavonoids cannot be manufactured in the body and are necessary for good health and essential for the absorption of vitamin C - and often called the companion of vitamin C. It is recommended that Quercetin and vitamin C be taken simultaneously for optimum efficacy.  Bromelein, too, is said to help absorption of Quercetin; they're synergistic, and taking them at the same time will enhance the efficacy of Quercetin.   There are many different bioflavonoids, including Quercetin, Rutin, Hesperidin, eriodictyl and citron, etc., and some of the herbs that contain this essential nutrient include Chervil, Elderberry, Hawthorne, Horsetail, Rose Hips and Shepherd's Purse, to name a few.  Recent studies show that bioflavonoids may be a big factor in preventing invasive infection and serious malignant diseases.

Beneficial Uses:
Quercetin is said to be more potent than vitamin E as an antioxidant and has been found to block destructive structural changes in cells, helping to prevent abnormal cell growth.   With regard to fighting cancer, Quercetin is thought to be one of the most useful herbal supplements that is thought to help combat invasive infection.   It is said to block the transport of fatty, arachidonic acid into the unhealthy cells, which, in turn, inhibits the release of inflammatory chemicals that promote the growth of blood vessels supplying nutrients and oxygen to the unhealthy cells.  It is also said to deactivate enzymes that can trigger the multiplication of malignant bladder, breast, ovarian and colorectal cells. A study completed in October, 2007, indicated that Quercetin has much higher antioxidant activity compared to other flavonoids and vitamin C, and that not only may Quercetin help brain cells, but also it may actually hurt cancer cells.  In lab experiments, Quercetin blocked some of the pathways by which tumors grow out of control, and once again, in this task Quercetin outperformed vitamin C. Recent studies completed at Johns Hopkins have indicated that Quercetin may, in fact, help prevent colon cancer, and we have provided the direct link to bring you up to date on this recent science.  (Click here to read the entire article)

Pursuant to fighting malignancy, Quercetin is said to stop the chemical signals that give ovarian cancer cells a growth advantage over healthy cells.  Furthermore, studies at the Indiana University School of Medicine have found that Quercetin and genistein (a key isoflavone in SOY) will enhance each other's effects when combating ovarian and other malignant cells and may thus be more effective when used together.  According to data cited by Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, there is considerable in vitro data support the concept of Quercetin as an anti-cancer compound.  Proposed anti-cancer mechanisms of action include down-regulation of mutant p53 proteins.  However, clinical studies that support these uses are few, and more clinical study is needed to explore this potential.

A study published in Psychology Today indicated that Quercetin may be very helpful in cases of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, along with the cognitive decline that often accompanies ageing and other neurodegenerative diseases.  Quercetin has much higher antioxidant activity compared to other flavonoids and vitamin C, the study claimed and not only may Quercetin help brain cells, but also it may actually hurt cancer cells (supporting earlier claims that Quercetin may be effective in cancer treatments as well).   In lab experiments, Quercetin blocked some of the pathways by which tumors grow out of control, and once again, in this task Quercetin outperformed vitamin C.

Quercetin is considered an anti-allergenic and is said to inhibit allergic reactions by preventing multiplication of cells that secrete histamine, the chemical that causes inflammation and swelling; and

it does not induce drowsiness often accompanying the use of antihistamines because its action does not act upon the nerves that stimulate the cells.  Quercetin is said to help the lungs deal with dust and particle pollution and can benefit the discomforts of emphysema, asthma, bronchial problems, hives and other allergies.

With regard to cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, although Quercetin does not correct the blood-vessel defects that cause these disorders, it does protect the cells of the retina and the eye's lens from the effects of low oxygen levels and nurological toxins.

Quercetin is thought to help blood vessels injured by debility or high blood pressure by inhibiting the growth of cholesterol that forms into plaque in the blood vessels.  It is said to slow the chemical reactions that cause large numbers of macrophages to cluster on the artery walls, reducing plaque formation (clotting), which can be beneficial for promoting improved blood circulation and reducing the risk of arteriosclerosis.

Chemically similar to sodium cromoglycate, a drug that is used to protect against migraines provoked by foods known to cause a migraine attack, Quercetin inhibits many of the pathways of inflammation associated with migraine and is said to prevent headaches associated with allergies.

Quercetin may help to prevent heart problems by reducing the oxidation of LDLs (bad cholesterol) in the blood and promoting normal blood pressure levels.

Significant antiviral activity has been shown in vitro and in vivo, and considered an antiviral, Quercetin has demonstrated effective activity against human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex, polio virus and respiratory syncytial virus.

Quercetin and other bioflavonoids (working in conjunction with vitamin C) are said to be useful for bleeding gums, bruising, varicose veins, hemorrhoids and blood clots.

Quercetin is believed to be an excellent anti-inflammatory that is thought to relieve Celiac problems, eczema, gout and prostatitis, among many other inflammatory conditions.  With regard to Celiac disease, Quercetin interferes with the chemical pathways by which inflammatory hormones are activated and is a useful supportive treatment.  Quercetin also stops the multiplication of neutrophils, the immune cells involved in the production of inflammation-causing hormones, preventing the release of the inflammation-causing bodies known as leukotrienes.  Because Quercetin counteracts the effects of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that promotes uric acid production, it helps to combat gout.

Recommended Dosage:
Take one (1) capsule, one (1) time each day with water at an early to mid-day mealtime.

Contraindications:
Extremely high doses of Quercetin (many times the recommended amounts) may cause diarrhea. Bioflavonoids are essential for the absorption of vitamin C, and Bromelain will enhance efficacy, and the three can be taken together; on the other hand, Quercetin may enhance the effects of prescription drugs, and they should not be taken at the same time.  Because of lack of long-term safety data, Quercetin is not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers.  Those who are allergic to benzoic/benzonic acid should avoid this product.

Capsule Size:
We use only 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules for all of our encapsulated products. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs of powdered herb material.

• Quercetin - Botanical Powder -- Approximately 600 mgs each