Resveratrol, quercetin, and pterostilbene are compounds found in plants and fruits. Resveratrol and pterostilbene are the same things, with the latter being more potent. Resveratrol has antioxidant properties leading it to become a top choice in supplements.
Quercetin belongs to a group of flavonoids found in different plants. This compound is highly beneficial for heart health and preventing brain degenerative disorders. Pterostilbene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are essential for overall health. It is a derivative of the compound resveratrol and is better absorbed by the body.
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Resveratrol, Quercetin, & Pterostilbene Combination Benefits
While all these compounds have health benefits individually, they also have an impact as a combination.
Protecting cells from oxidative injury
Research shows that combining these phytochemicals protects the erythrocyte cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause delays in oxygen delivery in the body. Using all three bioactive compounds ensures longevity in cell life. This combination also stops hemolysis. [1]
Antimicrobial effects
When combined, these phytochemicals showed antimicrobial properties and were toxic to fungi, bacteria, and viruses in the human body. Even though no proper research on humans has been conducted yet, a study was conducted on rats. This study showed a reduced form of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. [2]
Anti Aging properties
Pterostilbene impacts mitochondrial function and regulates the function of electron transport. It also improves respiration. Studies show that people consuming little pterostilbene in their diet have higher chances of aging. This happens primarily due to oxidative stress in the cells. [3][4]
Lowers blood pressure
Resveratrol has antioxidant properties that are highly effective in lowering blood pressure. It controls systolic blood pressure, which increases with age due to the stiffening of artery walls.
It promotes the production of nitric oxide, which has a relaxing effect on blood vessels. Hence, it is highly capable of lowering blood pressure in aged people, especially when combined with quercetin and pterostilbene. [5]
Reduces allergy symptoms
Quercetin, with its anti-inflammatory properties, is perfect for reducing allergy symptoms. According to studies, quercetin blocks inflammation-causing enzymes and chemicals like histamine. However, studies on these effects have been tested on animals, and more research is needed on its impact on humans.
Resveratrol, Quercetin, & Pterostilbene Side Effects
Even though these compounds are found naturally and consumed through diet, certain side effects are linked to their intake. While no side effects have been reported from combining these compounds, they all have individual effects.
There is no set amount of resveratrol that you can consume within a day, so it is difficult to conclude the amount one can consume. Moreover, resveratrol is dangerous to use with certain medications such as blood thinners and pain relievers. This is due to its impact on blood clotting, leading to more bleeding chances.
While quercetin is entirely safe to use, taking more than 1000mg of the supplement may cause mild side effects. The symptoms include headache, tingling, and stomach ache. Quercetin supplements are not suggested for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, it may be consumed through food.
Pterostilbene showed no toxicity in a study conducted on mice where they were given a dose of 3000 mg/kg daily. Moreover, 125mg twice every day also had no impact on humans. However, high consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea.
Pterostilbene is a more potent form of resveratrol and also impacts blood thinning and interferes with medicines like antiplatelet, anti-coagulant, and liver metabolizing drugs. Some people may also suffer from pterostilbene allergies with symptoms such as rashes, hives, and difficulty breathing.
You must consult with your doctor beforehand whenever you want to start using supplements. If you have any underlying conditions, they could worsen when you consume supplements without a doctor’s recommendation.
Can You Combine Resveratrol, Quercetin, & Pterostilbene?
According to research, there is no danger involved in combining the three compounds. Using all three together enhances the individual effects each one of them has. When used as a combination, these compounds are completely safe to use.
However, you must ask your doctor before using these compounds together. This is due to the separate side effects these compounds may incur in the body.
The Bottomline
While a combination of resveratrol, pterostilbene, and quercetin isn’t common, this mixture has amazing benefits. With a mix of anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties, this combo of compounds also reduces the chances of cancer in the body. However, most research has been conducted on animals, and more research is required using humans.
Moreover, we consume these compounds through various foods, but if supplements are needed, you should contact your doctor before using them.
FAQs
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References and Fact-Checking
- Mikstacka, R., M. Rimando, A., & Ignatowicz, E. (2010). Antioxidant Effect of trans-Resveratrol, Pterostilbene, Quercetin and Their Combinations in Human Erythrocytes In Vitro. Plant Foods Human Nutrition, 57–63. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11130-010-0154-8
- Duke, S. O. (2022). Benefits of Resveratrol and Pterostilbene to Crops and Their Potential Nutraceutical Value to Mammals. Agriculture, 12(3), 368. MDPI AG. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/agriculture12030368
- Mizuno, C. S., Ma, G., Khan, S., Patny, A., Avery, M. A., & Rimando, A. M. (2008). Design, synthesis, biological evaluation and docking studies of pterostilbene analogs inside PPARalpha. Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry, 16(7), 3800–3808. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bmc.2008.01.051
- Chang, J., Rimando, A., Pallas, M., Camins, A., Porquet, D., Reeves, J., Shukitt-Hale, B., Smith, M. A., Joseph, J. A., & Casadesus, G. (2012). Low-dose pterostilbene, but not resveratrol, is a potent neuromodulator in aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiology of aging, 33(9), 2062–2071. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2011.08.015
- Xia, N., Förstermann, U., & Li, H. (2014). Resveratrol and endothelial nitric oxide. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 19(10), 16102–16121. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules191016102
