Quercetin is a natural substance thought to help symptoms of seasonal
allergies. An antioxidant found naturally in black tea and several foods,
quercetin appears to fight inflammation (a biological process often linked to
allergies). In laboratory research, quercetin has also been found to act as a
natural antihistamine. To date, however, few studies have tested the effects of
quercetin in people with seasonal allergies.
What causes
seasonal allergies?
It’s thought that people with allergies have
hypersensitive immune systems that are triggered by foreign substances. When
pollen or other substances that aren’t actually harmful to the body are breathed
in, the body views it as a dangerous invader and turns on its defense
mechanisms. The runny nose, watery eyes and frequent sneezing are meant to flush
the allergen from the body.
Depending on an individual’s sensitivity,
some may feel the effects only when the pollen levels are the highest, while
others feel symptoms at the slightest hint of pollen in the air.
Alleviating symptoms with quercetin
Quercetin has been reported
to be of use in alleviating symptoms of seasonal allergies. Several laboratory
studies show quercetin may have anti-inflammatory properties, and it is being
investigated for a wide range of potential health benefits. Foods rich in
quercetin include black and green tea, capers, apples, onion, red grapes,
citrus fruit, tomato, broccoli and other leafy green vegetables, and a number of
berries.
Some herbal allergy supplements also include quercetin, such as
HistaBlock® from Nature’s Sunshine. A powerful combination of stinging nettle,
quercetin, bromelain and immature orange peel, HistaBlock supports the
respiratory system during times of stress and helps maintain mucous membrane
health and nasal passage tissues.
How it works
HistaBlock is a herbal allergy supplement that provides nutrients that
support healthy respiratory function as the body battles irritants, pollutants
and toxins. Stinging nettle provides well-known support against seasonal
airborne substances. Quercetin may help stabilize cells that release compounds
when exposed to irritants. Bromelain is an enzyme that works to help reduce the
swelling of mucous membranes during times of respiratory stress. And bitter
orange contains synephrine, which helps the body support open airways.
Herbal allergy supplements that contain quercetin—such as HistaBlock—can help:
- Support the body in times of respiratory stress.
- Support the body’s
efforts to maintain a healthy mucous membrane.
- Support free breathing and may
help reduce unpleasant symptoms associated with irritants.
Though
the spring and summer growing season is an inevitable part of the year, you can
take a proactive approach to supporting your body with a herbal allergy
supplement.
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