What Is Quercetin Chalcone?

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid common to many fruits and vegetables that is classified as a flavonol due to the structure of its phenol groups. Quercetin chalcone, also known as hesperidn-methyl-chalcone, is a water-soluble form of this bioflavonoid, which means it is more easily absorbed by the body than quercetin. There are a number of health benefits associated with this supplement, but check with your doctor before self-treating a serious or chronic condition.

Description

According to Daniel Gastelu, M.S., author of "All About Bioflavonoids," quercetin chalcone is the nontoxic form of quercetin. This statement is based on animal studies and in vitro Ames tests, which previously found that quercetin induced DNA mutations in bacteria. In fact, despite evidence that quercetin displayed anti-carcinogenic effects in other tests using cultured tissue samples, animal studies showed that diets supplemented with 0.1 and 0.2 percent quercetin increased the rate of bladder tumors in rats and mice. However, it should be noted that these results have not been extrapolated to humans.

In response to concerns about potential toxicity, Thorne Research, Inc. developed and patented quercetin chalcone as a safer form of quercetin. In its patent application, filed September 15, 1995, the company attributes the enhanced bioavailability of this derivative to a chemical structure composed of five phenolic hydroxy groups, one more than quercetin has.

Pharmacological Actions

According to Thorne Research, quercetin chalcone contributes to the maintenance of homeostasis, or metabolic equilibrium, in the walls of blood vessels, which means it may improve vascular function. It also inhibits xanthane oxidase, an enzyme involved in promoting oxidative stress. Quercetin chalcone also suppresses the release of aldose reductase, another enzyme that plays a role in the development of diabetic neuropathy. The manufacturer also claims that this agent demonstrates anti-cancer potential by inhibiting aerobic glycosis in tumor cells. In the first study investigating the anti-cancer effects of quercetin chalcone, lead researcher Adam Hayashi, M.S., reported in the Dec. 5, 2000 issue of Alternative Medicine Review that tumor growth in mice decreased in size in a dose-dependent manner.

Health Benefits

Quercetin compounds suppress inflammation by inhibiting histamine release, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. As such, preliminary research indicates that quercetin chalcone may be helpful in treating asthma, hay fever, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation of the prostate. Quercetin chalcone may also exert cardioprotective effects. However, confidence in this latter benefit is based on population studies and intake of dietary flavonoids. More research is needed to confirm any health benefits of quercetin chalcone.

Side Effects

Like quercetin, quercetin chalcone is generally well tolerated in most people. However, others experience stomach upset or headache. High doses may cause kidney damage and impaired protein utilization. Do not take this supplement if you are pregnant or nursing.

Drug Interactions

Quercetin chalcone may interact with corticosteroids, chemotherapy agents and medications that suppress the immune system. Consult your physician if you are taking any of these or other medications before using this product.