Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by inflamed, constricted airways, that according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affects 20 million Americans. People that suffer from asthma experience wheezing, coughing and breathing difficulties when they inhale an irritant, such as pollen or smoke. Although there is no cure for this condition, prescription medicines are available that help to ease breathing and reduce inflammation. The bioflavonoid, quercetin, may play a role in the treatment of asthma; however it should not be used in place of treatments prescribed by your doctor. Get medical advice before taking a quercetin supplement.
Properties
Quercetin is a flavanol compound, that according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, may have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties. As such it is sometimes used as an alternative remedy for conditions characterized by inflammation such as asthma and allergies. It is also sometimes used as a cancer treatment aid. It is believed to exert its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals like leukotrienes and histamine.
Sources and Dosing
Quercetin is found in a variety of foods and beverages, including buckwheat tea, onions, apples, red wine and berries. Some herbs also contain quercetin, including ginkgo biloba and St. John's wort. You can also take it as a dietary supplement. RxList notes that taking up to 500 mg twice daily is likely safe. However, you should follow your doctor's advise regarding an appropriate dosage, as the amount you need to take may depend on several factors including your age and general health.
Efficacy
Clinical studies evaluating the role of quercetin in the treatment of asthma are limited. However, several animal studies have shown that this compound may have anti-asthmatic effects. For example, the results of a study by H. Moon et al., published in the June 2008 issue of the "Archives of Pharmacal Research," found that quercetin lowered the production of histamine and that its anti-asthmatic effects were similar to the drugs, cromolyn sodium and dexamethasone. In addition, research by A.P. Rogerio et al., published in the April 2010 issue of "Pharmacological Research," found that quercetin reduced airway inflammation, suggesting that it could play a potential role in the treatment of inflammatory-based respiratory diseases.
Safety Considerations
RxList notes that taking large amounts of quercetin may not be safe, adding that side effects may include headache and a tingling sensation in the arms and legs. Do not take a quercetin supplement if you pregnant or breastfeeding or alongside antibiotics or anticoagulant drugs.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asthma
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Quercetin
- RxList: Quercetin
- "Archive of Pharmacal Research;" Quercetin Inhalation Inhibits the Asthmatic Responses by Exposure to Aerosolized-Ovalbumin in Conscious Guinea-Pigs; H. Moon et al; June 2006
- "Pharmacological Research;" Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Quercetin-Loaded Microemulsion in the Airways Allergic Inflammatory Model in Mice; A.P. Rogerio; April 2010
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