Quercetin is a bioflavonoid -- a naturally occurring compound that is often found in citrus fruits, berries, tea, or wine. Bioflavonoids are powerful free radical scavengers and antioxidants. Quercetin is a specific type of flavonoid found in many common foods, including apples, blueberries, broccoli, raw onions, and in tea. It reduces inflammation by scavenging free radicals within the body, stopping inflammation before it starts.
Many patients with pelvic pain or urinary symptoms do not see major benefits with traditional medications, which may have side effects that limit their usefulness, and instead look to supplements. Quercetin taken as a supplement has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenging properties that may be an alternative for patients with pelvic pain or urinary symptoms.
Researchers tested the ability of Quercetin to help patients dealing with pelvic pain and urinary symptoms. In a controlled, randomized study of thirty men diagnosed with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), the men were given 1,000 mg of Quercetin daily for a month. Those in the control group were given a placebo.
The study found that taking Quercetin daily significant improved pelvic pain and symptoms. In total, 67% of patients who took Quercetin reported at least a modest improvement in symptoms, while only 20% of the control group noticed any benefit. Overall, in the month of the clinical trial, patients noticed an average of 38% improvement in their symptoms when taking Quercetin daily.
The researchers reported that the supplement was well tolerated and did not generate significant side effects. For patients with pelvic pain or urinary symptoms, it seems Quercetin may have a positive effect without a high risk of side effect. As always, consult your doctor before starting or changing any medications or supplements.
Based on these results and other studies showing anti-inflammatory benefits of Quercetin, it is included in the PelvicSanity Pelvic Health Supplement Pack, along with Omega-3 Fish Oils and L-Arginine.
Additional Resources
Dr. Nicole Cozean is the founder of PelvicSanity physical therapy, Orange County's premier pelvic floor physical therapy clinic. One of only 270 PTs to be board-certified in the pelvic floor, and the first PT to serve on the ICA Board of Directors, Nicole is the author of the acclaimed and best-selling book The Interstitial Cystitis Solution (2016). She is an adjunct professor at her alma mater, Chapman University. The PelvicSanity blog focuses on presenting practical, positive information to help patients beyond the walls of Nicole's clinic.