| Catechin, one of the bioflavonoid
components, appears to decrease histamine release in allergy and thus reduce symptoms. It
also is a mild anti-inflammatory in rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, it has protective effects on the liver in response to
alcohol and as a healing aid for people with hepatitis B. Quercetin has
been the subject of recent studies. It can decrease allergic reactions by several
mechanisms. First, it helps to stabilize mast cells and basophils and inhibits their
degranulation and subsequent release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals.
Quercetin also inhibits some inflammatory enzymes, such as lipid peroxidases, and
decreases leukotriene (another inflammatory molecule) formation. Thus, quercetin may be
helpful not only in allergies, but in all kinds of inflammatory responses, such as injury,
bursitis, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. Quercetin is further thought to decrease the
infectiousness of certain RNA and DNA viruses, such as herpes, polio, and Epstein-Barr, by
inhibiting their replication. It may also be helpful in preventing eye and nerve damage in
diabetes by decreasing tissue irritation.
Usually, bioflavonoids are supplemented as a group
in amounts of 250-500 mg, one to several times daily. Many vitamin C formulas contain
bioflavonoids, particularly rutin and hesperidin. Quercetin is available in various
strengths; supplementation of 100-250 mg. three times daily may be an effective level.
| Ask
the Expert about Arthritis & Joints Supplements (click) |
 |
|
 |
Product
Recommendations |
|
|
