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Quercetin

By Shereen Jegtvig, About.com

Updated: June 1, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Apples - iStockphoto.com

Apples are an excellent source of quercetin.

Photo © Frey Nik
About Quercetin: Quercetin is a phytochemical that is part of the coloring found in the skins of apples and red onions. It has been isolated and is sold as a dietary supplement.
In the Body: Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant. It is also a natural anti-histamine, and anti-inflammatory. Research shows that quercetin may help to prevent cancer, especially prostate cancer.
Why Use It: Quercetin's anti-histamine action may help to relieve allergic symptoms and asthma symptoms. The anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce pain from disorders such as arthritis. Men who are concerned about prostate problems would also benefit from quercetin. Quercetin may also help reduce symptoms like fatigue, depression and anxiety.
Where To Find Quercetin: To get more quercetin, you can increase your intake of apples and red onions, which will improve your diet. If you need more therapeutic impact, quercetin is available in health food stores and online. New Sun Nutritionals makes an excellent product called FRS Plus.

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