Quercetin better than cromolyn as treatment for eczema and photosensitivity

Since mast cells are key in the play out of allergic diseases, the inhibition of mast cell activity may be effective treatment for such diseases. Contact dermatitis (eczema) and photosensitivity are two conditions that do not respond to conventional treatments, and may benefit from mast cell inhibitors.

Cromolyn is currently the only marketed mast cell inhibitor, but it is not very effective at blocking human mast cells. This study compares quercetin and cromolyn. In two clinical trials the quercetin significantly decreased eczema and photosensitivity. This concludes that quercetin is a promising treatment for these two conditions, especially when it is given in formulations that maximize oral absorption.

Source: PLoS One

August 2012

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