As of 2011, quercetin has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of any medical condition. While quercetin might be useful as an anti-inflammatory agent, there are virtually no peer-reviewed, evidence-based studies that suggest it might be beneficial in the treatment of migraines.
Migraines
Characterized by extreme pain, nausea and light sensitivity, migraines should not be confused with other types of headache. Although the cause is not clearly understood, genetics, environmental factors and hormones may all play a role. Triggers include stress, foods and sensory stimuli. For women, hormonal changes may also play a role. A handful of different drugs are used to treat the pain and nausea, while other drugs are used to prevent the migraine from occurring.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavinoid. Flavinoids are antioxidants. Antioxidants are desirable because they neutralize free radicals, which damage cell membranes and DNA. The National Cancer Institute states while animal studies show that a diet high in antioxidants lowers the risk of cancer, results from clinical studies are less conclusive. There is no known relationship between free radicals and migraines.
Dietary Sources
Quercetin is found in parsley, citrus fruits, red wine, tea, onions and apples. Berries, including blueberries, blackberries and bilberries, are also good sources, as are grapes and cherries. Supplements containing supplements are found in health food stores, often in combination with bromelain. Bromelain also appears to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Warnings
If you are determined to try quercetin, double check with your doctor first because it can cause adverse reactions with other drugs that are used to treat migraine, including aspirin and corticosteroids. Quercetin also produces adverse reactions with other drugs, including warfarin, clopidogrel, cyclosporine and various drugs used to treat cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that you should not take more than 1 g per day without consulting your doctor.
