Big effect
Acute mountain sickness struck just 2% of quercetin users vs. 25% on placebo — but the trial included only 55 people.
This is among the first controlled studies linking quercetin to altitude sickness prevention, and while the effect is unusually large, it comes from a small, early-phase trial that needs independent replication before drawing firm conclusions.
In a 15-day double-blind trial, 55 adults ascending to high altitude took either 500 mg/day of quercetin or a placebo. Only 2% of the quercetin group developed acute mountain sickness compared to 25% of the placebo group, and the supplement also improved blood oxygen levels and blood pressure. However, the small sample size and the fact that this is one of the first studies on the topic mean the results are promising but far from definitive.
Where this fits in the evidence
This is among the first studies we've indexed on Quercetin for Reduced Acute Mountain Sickness Incidence — treat it as an early signal until more research accumulates.
The study
- Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)
- n = 55
- 2026-07-11
- European journal of nutrition
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.