ABSTRACT
Flavonols (3-hydroxy…avone) are the most abundant subclass of plant-derived polyphenolics. Flavonols are of tremendous scientižc interest because of their potential benežcial effects on human health including antioxidant, anti-in…ammatory, and antiviral activities. Moreover, epidemiological studies demonstrate an association of improved cardiovascular health with increased fruit and vegetable intake. Fruits and vegetables are the main source of …avonols in the diet and are largely thought to be responsible for many of the health improvements observed in populations consuming high levels of fruits and vegetables in synergy with vitamins, minerals, and žber. Quercetin is the most abundant and studied of the …avonols and has biological properties consistent with improved cardiovascular health (as reviewed by Formica and Regelson [1995]). Quercetin demonstrates anti-in…ammatory activity and antioxidant activity, prevents platelet aggregation, and promotes relaxation of cardiovascular smooth muscle. In addition, quercetin has been shown to have antiviral (Kaul et al., 1985) and anticarcinogenic properties (Verma et al., 1988).
