Natural Support for Seasonal Challenges
Seasonal challenges may make some patients uncomfortable, and these patients are often very receptive to trying natural approaches.
There are two natural ingredients commonly used to support patients during seasonal challenges: stinging nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) and quercetin.
Nettles have been used historically to support health on many levels, including seasonal challenges, but studies are relatively few. However, a 2017 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research featured 74 adults that were placed into two groups: receiving 150 mg of nettles or placebo. The Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 22 was used along with other tests including a nasal smear to measure eosinophil percentage. Eosinophil count dropped significantly in the group taking nettles compared to placebo.*
Quercetin is a flavonol found in many foods such as onions, broccoli, apples, and grapes. Flavonoids, and quercetin specifically, are known to support healthy histamine levels. Quercetin also supports healthy IgE levels and Th1/Th2 balance. *
A foundational ingredient often added to supplements designed to support patients with seasonal challenges is vitamin C. This makes sense because vitamin C is involved in the metabolism of histamine, prostaglandins, and cysteinyl leukotrienes. As an important antioxidant, vitamin C can also support a healthy inflammatory response. Vitamin C has been shown to work synergistically with ingredients like quercetin and nettles.*
Seasonal challenges are common in clinical practice, but dietary supplements that contain these natural ingredients—nettles, quercetin and vitamin C—can help provide patients with additional support this time of year.