Quercetin: Benefits and Sources

Quercetin is a plant pigment known as a flavonoid that acts as a potent antioxidant. It is found in foods like berries, onions, and apples and is available as a dietary supplement.

Quercetin FAQ

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What is quercetin & what is it used for?

Quercetin is a plant flavonol from the flavonoid group of polyphenols. It is found in many fruits, vegetables, leaves, seeds, and grains; capers, red onions, and kale are common foods containing appreciable amounts of it. It has a bitter flavor and is used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, beverages, and foods.

Is quercetin a plant pigment?

Quercetin is a type of flavonoid antioxidant that’s found in plant foods, including leafy greens, tomatoes, berries and broccoli. It’s technically considered a “plant pigment,” which is exactly why it’s found in deeply colored, nutrient-packed fruits and vegetables.

Where can I buy quercetin?

Quercetin can often be purchased online or at health food stores. When taking quercetin in supplement form, choosing a product that also contains papain and/or bromelain may be beneficial. These plant-derived enzymes (fruit extracts) are shown to increase the intestine's absorption of quercetin.

Is quercetin a flavonoid?

Quercetin is a flavonoid widely distributed in nature. The name has been used since 1857, and is derived from quercetum (oak forest), after the oak genus Quercus. It is a naturally occurring polar auxin transport inhibitor.

What is quercetin derived from?

What is quercetin? Quercetin is part of a group of plant pigments called flavonoids, and it's found in a range of foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. In supplement form, quercetin is often derived from the dried flowers and buds of the Sophora japonica (or Japanese pagoda) tree.