Quercetin belongs to a group of chemicals called flavonoids, which are antioxidants that protect your cells from free radicals, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Free radicals are dangerous molecules that damage your cell membranes and alter DNA. Quercetin dihydrate, the supplemental form of quercetin, has many potential benefits, but there are cons associated with quercetin dihydrate use. Talk to your doctor about all the pros and cons associated with quercetin dihydrate use, or the use of any supplement.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Quercetin has numerous potential benefits for your cardiovascular system. According to a study in the May 2002 issue of the "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research," quercetin dihydrate causes a reduction in cholesterol levels both in the liver and in the bloodstream. Lower cholesterol levels decrease your risk of heart disease and coronary artery disease. Quercetin supplements have also shown the ability to lower blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension.
Antihistamine Effects
Symptoms of allergies, including a runny nose, hives, swelling of the face and watery eyes, are often caused by a release of a chemical called histamine. Quercetin is purported to prevent your cells from releasing histamine, which prevents allergies, hay fever and other histamine-related conditions. However, consult your doctor before taking quercetin dihydrate for any reason.
Lack of Human Studies
Most of the studies and research using quercetin dihydrate were done in cell cultures of animal studies, the American Cancer Society notes. Though these studies identify potential benefits of the supplement, they do not conclusively prove that there are benefits in humans. The proper dosage and your body's ability to absorb quercetin are points that further research needs to focus on. Without proper clinical trials it is difficult to establish the benefits, if any, of quercetin dihydrate.
Side Effects
Quercetin dihydrate is relatively safe when taken in recommended doses. Some minor side effects include headache and upset stomach, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns. At doses greater than 1 g per day, quercetin potentially causes damage to your kidneys. If you are pregnant, breast-feeding or suffer with kidney conditions avoid quercetin dihydrate supplements.
References
- American Cancer Society; Quercetin; November 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Quercetin; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; May 2009
- "International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research' ;Quercetin Dihydrate and Gallate Supplements Lower Plasma and Hepatic Lipids and Change Activities of Hepatic Antioxidant Enzymes in High Cholesterol-fed Rats; SH Bok; May 2002
