Myricetin — Health Benefits, Supplements, Foods, and Structure

Inflammation 

The strong anti-inflammatory effects of myricetin are well known, and they are produced by a number of different metabolic processes. One main mechanism is the blocking of important inflammatory enzymes like lipoxygenase (LOX) and cyclooxygenase (COX) (5) (6). Myricetin lowers the synthesis of pro-inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes by inhibiting these enzymes. Furthermore, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a crucial transcription factor that regulates the expression of numerous inflammatory genes, is modulated by myricetin. Myricetin reduces the synthesis of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators by blocking NF-κB (7). Additionally, it has been demonstrated that myricetin increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes, lowering oxidative stress—a factor that frequently makes inflammation worse. 

Cancer

Myricetin is a highly researched topic because it has demonstrated positive effects against a variety of cancer types. Research has indicated that it is effective in preventing the growth of cancer cells and triggering apoptosis in breast cancer patients (8). Myricetin has been shown to inhibit tumor development and stop metastasis in colorectal cancer (9). 

Myricetin has demonstrated its promise as an anti-metastatic drug by inhibiting cell migration and invasion, as evidenced by research on lung cancer (10). By focusing on particular signaling pathways that support cancer cell survival and proliferation, myricetin also shows encouraging results in treating prostate cancer (11). 

Additionally, by improving detoxification procedures and lowering oxidative stress, it has demonstrated preventive properties against liver cancer (12). 

This flavonoid's strong antioxidant activity, which aids in neutralizing free radicals that can harm cellular DNA and promote the growth of cancer, is the main mechanism by which it has anticancer properties (13). Furthermore, myricetin has been demonstrated to impede the growth of cancer cells by disrupting multiple signaling pathways in cells, including the PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways, which are essential for cell viability and expansion (14). By stimulating the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins like Bax and activating caspase enzymes, myricetin also activates apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells (15). Moreover, it has the ability to suppress angiogenesis, the process by which tumors create new blood vessels to sustain their expansion, feeding the cancer cells with vital nutrients (16). 

Diabetes

First, by stimulating the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, which is essential for glucose uptake and metabolism, myricetin and its derivatives improve insulin sensitivity (17). This aids in increasing insulin's ability to effectively drop blood sugar levels. Furthermore, myricetin prevents the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose by enzymes, including α-glucosidase and α-amylase (18). Myricetin prevents blood sugar rises by slowing the absorption of glucose from the digestive system by blocking these enzymes. Furthermore, the antioxidant qualities of myricetin lessen oxidative stress, a condition that is frequently linked to diabetes. Myricetin supports overall insulin function and glucose management by protecting pancreatic beta cells, which are in charge of producing insulin, by reducing oxidative stress (19). 

Cardiovascular Health

Studies suggest that myricetin can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases. It has been observed to improve lipid profiles by lowering LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol levels, thereby promoting healthier blood vessels and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (20). Additionally, myricetin may aid in lowering blood pressure by enhancing the function of the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, which improves overall vascular health (21). 

Iron Deficiency

Because myricetin can bind to iron, there may be less iron available in the intestines for absorption. 

While this impact may be beneficial in cases of iron overload, people with normal or low iron levels may be at risk for iron deficiency as a result (22). Iron is essential for multiple physiological functions, such as the transportation of oxygen and the synthesis of energy (23). Therefore, poor absorption can cause symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and anemia (24). Consequently, even though myricetin has a number of health advantages, people should be cautious when taking it in relation to iron absorption, particularly if they have medical disorders that already impair their iron levels or are at risk of iron shortage.