As increasing numbers of people are diagnosed with rosacea, research about different treatment options also expands. Adults, primarily those older than 30 years of age, who develop the reddened skin and extended flushing that are common symptoms of this skin disorder may try dietary supplements like quercetin for their possible health benefits on chronic diseases, including rosacea.
Rosacea Symptoms and Causes
Even in 2011, rosacea is a poorly understood skin condition; although four subtypes have been identified according to primary symptoms, the causes of rosacea remain unclear. In addition to the main symptoms of prolonged facial flushing and skin redness on the cheeks or chin, people with rosacea might experience eye irritations, pus-filled bumps, or raised rashes. Bacteria on the skin and changes in blood vessels are potential causes that might respond to treatment.
Quercetin Mechanisms
Quercetin is a bioflavinoid, or natural plant product found in numerous fruits, including berries, citrus fruits, cherries and apples. Other common sources include red wine, olive oil, onions and parsley. Any plants that contain flavinoids provide antioxidant benefits to the body, and quercetin in particular is associated with high amounts of antioxidant activity.
Quercetin Health Benefits
The antioxidant effect of quercetin helps the body attack damaging free radicals and protect cells throughout the body. In addition, quercetin has anti-inflammatory activity to reduce swelling. It is possible that the anti-inflammatory effects that help ease allergy symptoms in people who take quercetin can reduce the inflammatory action of rosacea as well and cause less frequent or less severe redness outbreaks. However, no studies have been conducted to support this possibility.
Cautions
Quercetin is available for adult use in standardized supplements, and safe dosages have been identified for a variety of diseases, including allergies and heart disease. However, quercetin has not been studied for use in rosacea, and no supplements sold in the United States are evaluated for content and safety by the Food and Drug Administration. Consult a health professional before taking quercetin for rosacea.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alternative Medicine: Quercetin
- National Rosacea Society: All About Rosacea
- "J Am Board Fam Med"'; Diagnosis and Treatment of Rosacea; Aaron F. Cohen and Jeffrey D. Tiemstra; 2002
