Quercetin is known as one of the most abundant flavonoid antioxidants in the human diet. This natural compound plays an important part in fighting free radical damage, slowing down the effects of aging and reduces inflammation!

Quercetin helps regulate the immune system’s response to outside stressors through cell signaling pathways called kinases and phosphatases. These are types of enzyme and membrane proteins needed for proper cellular function. An important factor in fighting any flu or virus.

Possible health benefits of quercetin include:

  • Combat free radical damage (which is linked to chronic diseases)
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Fight pain
  • Preventing infections
  • Fights allergies
  • Improves energy levels
  • Protects the skin
  • Reducing the risk of cancer
  • Preventing neurological diseases
  • Supports heart health
  • Lowers high blood pressure

All types of tasty foods come packed with quercetin: Leafy green vegetables, broccoli, red onions, peppers, apples, blueberries, grapes, tomatoes, black tea, green tea, red onion and red wine are some of the best sources.

Food choices matter!

The amount of quercetin in foods may depend on the conditions in which the food was grown. Buy quality fruits and vegetables. (Organic whenever possible) For instance, organic tomatoes appear to have up to 79% more quercetin than commercially grown ones (Source).

While you can get plenty of Quercetin from eating a healthy diet, some people also take it in supplement form for even stronger anti-inflammatory effects. Common oral dosages are 500 milligrams taken twice daily. (Recommended Supplement)  

Note: Combining Quercetin with bromelain or vitamin C may improve absorption.

Dig Deeper

Laboratory and animal studies have shown that quercetin may inhibit a wide variety of viruses, including a coronavirus (SARS-CoV) related to COVID-19. (Source) In mice injected with influenza, quercetin was shown to restore diminished concentrations of many antioxidants in the lungs including catalase, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase. Researchers concluded that quercetin taken in conjunction with viral infection may support antioxidant capacity and protect lung tissues. (Source) Note that human studies looking at quercetin and viral load in humans are limited.