Gout occurs when the level of a waste product in the blood, known as uric acid, increases, forming tiny crystals in the joints. Gout usually affects a single joint, commonly the big toe, and is characterized by severe pain, inflammation and swelling. You might also experience a mild fever. Anti-inflammatory drugs usually help to relieve symptoms, although your doctor may prescribe a drug called allopurinol that helps to reduce the production of uric acid, thereby reducing the risk of gout. Quercertin might also help to prevent or alleviate symptoms, although evidence to prove it works is limited. Consult your physician before taking quercetin supplements.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Quercetin is a plant bioflavinoid that has anti-oxidant effects and may help to protect the body's cells from free-radical damage. Found in foods such as apples and onions, quercetin might also have anti-inflammatory effects, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. It may work by hindering the production of inflammatory chemicals such as leukotrines and is sometimes used as a complementary treatment for allergies, cardiovascular disease and conditions characterized by inflammation.
Research
Scientific research into the effects of quercetin on gout is limited. However, the results of an animal study published in the July 2004 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" show that quercertin might help to reduce uric acid levels. However, the authors note that it was less effective than the drug allopurinol. Nevertheless, they conclude that queretin could potentially play a role in gout treatment.
Administration
Quercetin is available in capsules and tablets from health-food stores and pharmacies. Since quercetin is not a proven remedy for gout, guidance regarding a suitable dosage is limited. However, Mississippi Baptist Health Systems notes that a typical dosage is 200 mg to 400 mg three times daily. Keep in mind that this is a general guideline; check with your doctor whether this dosage is likely suitable or beneficial for you.
Safety Considerations
Mississippi Baptist Health Systems states that quercetin appears safe but adds that it could increase the risk of cancer in certain cases, although evidence to prove this is limited. Don't use quercetin supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have serious liver or kidney disease. Keep in mind that it may interact with other medicines, including the antibiotic quinolone. Get medical clearance before using quercetin to help prevent or treat gout.
References
- Bupa; Gout; May 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Quercetin; July 2010
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Effects of Biota Orientalis Extract and its Flavonoid Constituents, Quercetin and Rutin on Serum Uric Acid Levels in Oxonate-Induced Mice and Xanthine Dehydrogenase and Xanthine Oxidase Activities in Mouse Liver; J.X. Zhu, et al.; July 2004
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems; Quercetin; February 2011
