Researchers are finding that the naturally occurring Quercitin may be an important tool in slowing the spread of endometriosis.
A powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger, Quercitin is a bioflavonoid that can be found in red wine, green tea, apples, and berries. It has already been shown in clinical trials to fight inflammation and reduce chronic pelvic pain. Now researchers are exploring whether it also may be able to slow the growth of endometrial tissue that occurs with endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a condition that affects up to 10% of women, where the endometrial-like tissue grows into other areas within the pelvic cavity. Pelvic floor physical therapy can reduce the symptoms of endometriosis, and surgery is often performed to remove the extra growth. However, surgical procedures are often only temporary fixes, as the tissue tends to regrow and the surgery creates scar tissue that can sometimes create more issues than it solves.
In animal studies, daily Quercetin supplements were shown to inhibit the unchecked tissue growth. While these effects still need to be confirmed in human studies, these initial results – combined with the other benefits of Quercetin – make it a promising supplement for those struggling with endometriosis or pelvic pain.
In human studies with the supplement, researchers tested the ability of Quercetin to help patients dealing with pelvic pain and urinary symptoms. In a controlled, randomized study, 1,000 mg per day of Quercetin reduced chronic pelvic pain by nearly 40%, and showed at least some benefit for more than 2 in 3 patients. In another clinical trial, twenty-two patients with chronic pelvic pain were given Quercetin supplements for four weeks. Researchers noted significant improvements in symptoms and how much patients were bothered by their pain; 21 of the 22 patients reported at least some improvement over the trial, with no negative side effects reported.
Based on this information, Quercetin may be a valuable tool for women diagnosed with endometriosis in dealing with pelvic pain and - if additional research confirms the early testing - possibly slowing endometriosis growth. We include Quercetin in the PelvicSanity Pelvic Health Supplement pack, or it can be found in most health stores or online, and most studies have evaluated 1,000 mg per day.
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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.