Quercetin

Quercetin + Nettles utilises an innovative form of quercetin known as Quercefit®, which incorporates a phospholipid base for enhanced absorption and bioavailability. Quercetin is traditionally difficult for the body to absorb. When attached to the lecithin-based phytosome, the solubility of quercetin is increased by 20 times, allowing for improved serum levels after supplementation.

Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory functions

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid compound that can affect immunity and inflammation by targeting leukocytes and influencing the activity of membrane proteins, enzymes and signalling molecules.

It is known for its effects as an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulator, particularly in conditions associated with mast cell, neutrophil and basophil degranulation and subsequent histamine release in both cellular and humoral immune responses.

It does this by inhibiting the activation of mast cells whilst also stabilising their membranes to inhibit degranulation and histamine release – one study showing that histamine release in nasal tissues may be reduced by between 46% and 99%.4,7 Other anti-inflammatory actions include inhibiting the release of Th-2 derived cytokines and reducing the secretion of antigen-specific IgE antibodies by B-cells. It also suppresses the production of both periostin and periostininduced eosinophil chemoattractants and nitric oxide production in the epithelial tissues of the nose and sinuses.

Furthermore, Quercetin may also reduce the expression of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), capillary permeability and platelet aggregation.

It has also been shown to inhibit nuclear factor-kappa B and therefore the subsequent the production and activity of inflammatory cytokines such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, nitric oxide synthase. It can also inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 enzymes and modify the function of neutrophils.

Preclinical studies have suggested that quercetin also promotes neutrophil chemotaxis and the phagocytic activity of macrophages and Natural Killer cells.

Antioxidant functions

Like other phenolic flavonoid compounds, quercetin shows potent antioxidant activity related to its catechol-type-Bring structure. Suggested mechanisms include direct free radical scavenging, metal chelation (it supresses generation of free radicals by heavy metals), enzyme inhibition or the stimulation of protective enzymes.

Urtica dioica (Nettle)

Nettle is arguably the most nutritive of herbs available to practitioners. It has a high quercetin content which is thought to contribute to its effects on the immune system. Preclinical studies have indicated an anti-inflammatory activity via the inhibition of interleukin-2 and interferongamma production as well as the lipopolysaccharide stimulation of TNF-alpha.

Features & Benefits 

• Contains the lecithin-based and highly bioavailable form of quercetin, Quercefit®
• Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that assist healthy immune functioning
• Nettle is a nutritive herb providing an adjunctive quercetin, adding anti-inflammatory support
• Vegan friendly, dairy and soy free