---
title: Supporting the Pediatric Allergic Response with Quercetin
description: Quercetin, a flavonoid in onions and apples, may support the pediatric allergic response by helping modulate histamine and Th1/Th2 balance.
---

[Evidence-based Wellness Education](https://www.casi.org/articles)

# [Supporting the Pediatric Allergic Response with Quercetin](https://www.casi.org/articles/supporting-the-pediatric-allergic-response-with-quercetin)

 Written by [Cory Ambrose, ND, MAT](https://www.casi.org/articles/author/cory-ambrose-nd-mat) | Oct 28, 2022, 12:00:00 PM

Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is a noninfectious inflammatory condition characterized by [elevated levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/)), nasal congestion, and other related symptoms after exposure to an allergen. [Atopic dermatitis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) is an inflammatory skin disease mediated by T cells. It has a higher prevalence in [pediatric populations](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) (up to 20% of children) as compared to adults. Allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis are [risk factors](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) for the development of allergic asthma. The onset of asthma often occurs [during childhood](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551631/#article-26821.s4). Asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis are frequently associated together, as they comprise the [atopic triad](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551631/#article-26821.s4).

Allergic illnesses are often associated with immune responses that include a shift to the T helper type (Th)2 phenotype in the [Th1/Th2 balance](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/). Th2 cells can produce cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-4, Il-5, and IL-13, which can influence the [inflammatory response](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) in allergic asthma. [Mast cell recruitment](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) increases in allergic asthma, along with IgE and mucus production. Studies indicate that quercetin may help support the allergic response.

Quercetin is a [molecule](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34944471/) found abundantly in onions, apples, green tea, and other fruits and vegetables. It has been shown in studies to support antioxidative status, neuroinflammation, and the elimination of [senescent cells](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35204750/). Quercetin is classified as a polyphenolic flavonoid and has many [biochemical actions](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35935939/), including the activation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). [SIRT1](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35935939/) is involved in the modulation of cellular senescence and reactive oxygen species.

Quercetin may also help support a healthy inflammatory response. It has been shown in studies to help regulate SIRT1 pathways involving nuclear factor-kappa B and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Quercetin administration has also been shown to help modulate [inflammatory cytokines](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35935939/), including IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor.

A study involving animal models of allergic asthma indicated that [quercetin administration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) helped support normal tracheal contractility. A laboratory study assessing the efficacy of a combination of polyphenols, including quercetin showed [ciliary beat frequency](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) improvements in human nasal mucosa. Other laboratory studies have shown that quercetin may help improve [airway epithelial cells](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) through the regulation of the signal transduction pathway protein kinase C and epidermal growth factor receptor extracellular-regulated kinase. Significant decreases in histamine levels and improvements in [mucus hypersecretion](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) and Th1/Th2 balance have also been observed in animal and laboratory studies related to quercetin.

Quercetin may also help support health in the presence of atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis. A laboratory study showed quercetin helped modulate [nitric oxide](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/) production from nasal epithelial cells after IL-4 stimulation. Weaker expressions of c*yclooxygenase-2* and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide were reported in a controlled animal study related to [allergic rhinitis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/). In animal models related to atopic dermatitis, quercetin was observed to help suppress [Th2-related cytokine expression](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/). Quercetin helped suppress [hyperkeratosis](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32467711/), parakeratosis, acanthosis, and mast cell activity in another atopic dermatitis animal model.

Before conclusions can be made, further studies need to be conducted in a clinical setting, particularly those with more participants and a pediatric lens. However, research indicates that quercetin may support antioxidative status and certain qualities of the allergic response.

[View full post](https://www.casi.org/articles/supporting-the-pediatric-allergic-response-with-quercetin)

```json
{
  "@context" : "http://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Cory Ambrose, ND, MAT"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2026-09-17T14:11:15.373Z",
  "datePublished" : "2022-10-28T12:00:00Z",
  "headline" : "Supporting the Pediatric Allergic Response with Quercetin",
  "image" : {
    "@type" : "ImageObject",
    "height" : 757,
    "url" : "https://51358820.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/51358820/casi/archive/adobestock_209964813.jpg",
    "width" : 1136
  },
  "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://www.casi.org/articles/supporting-the-pediatric-allergic-response-with-quercetin",
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "height" : 60.0,
      "url" : "https://51358820.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/51358820/casilogoresize2-2.png",
      "width" : 147.05882
    },
    "name" : "CASI.org"
  }
}
```