What is Quercetin?
 
Quercetin is one of the most prominent and researched bioflavonoid compounds in plants. Although it exists in smaller quantities, you can find Quercetin in foods such as onions or grapes. Berries, citrus fruits, broccoli, and tomatoes are other Quercetin foods high in Quercetin. One of the aspects that makes Quercetin benefits unique is its interaction and synergy with other compounds. Quercetin has been shown to promote balanced oxidation levels by blocking an enzyme called catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT). Interestingly enough, some studies found that Quercetin supports the cellular absorption of green tea catechins by inhibiting COMT, thus demonstrating a synergistic relationship between Quercetin and Green Tea catechins. As a result, Quercetin may help promote the bioavailability of Green Tea catechins!
 
Quercetin is also known to be an adenosine receptor antagonist, like caffeine. However, its effects are not going to be as noticeable as caffeine, but may provide you with a subtle spring in your step! Some additional research has also found that taking a Quercetin supplement can help support balanced inflammation levels in the brain which may help promote overall cognitive function.
 
Quercetin Benefits and Uses
 
May help support cognitive function
May help promote balanced oxidation levels
May help support balanced inflammation levels
May help promote bioavailability of other supplements
May help support immune system function
 
Quercetin Zinc Ionophore Activity
 
As discussed earlier, Quercetin has shown to be effective at supporting balanced inflammation levels through multiple pathways. However, that is not the most interesting research subject on Quercetin. Quercetin has been a popular research subject since it seems to play a role in several cellular processes. One element of interest is that Quercetin demonstrates zinc ionophore activity. A zinc ionophore is a compound that helps transport zinc into cells. This behavior is under more research and many believe that Quercetin’s role as a zinc ionophore makes it good at promoting immune system function and supporting other quercetin health benefits. Research has already shown that a Quercetin supplement may help effectively shuttle zinc throughout the body into harmful cells. Additionally, this activity was further enhanced when paired with EGCG.
 
Although its mechanisms are still being researched, studies have shown that Quercetin benefits overall immune system function and helps support balanced oxidation levels. However, the Quercetin health benefits of taking a Quercetin supplement are still widely being researched and investigated.