# Quince (Cydonia oblonga)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/quince
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Cydonia oblonga, Golden Apple, Pear of Cydonia, Safarjal, Beh, Membrillo, Айва, Cognassier

## Overview

Quince (Cydonia oblonga) contains mucilaginous compounds and phenolic acids that provide [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and digestive support properties. The seed mucilage forms protective gels that soothe irritated tissues in both digestive and dermatological applications.

## Health Benefits

• Digestive support: Small Iranian trial showed 30% reduction in IBS discomfort with quince seed paste (preliminary evidence)
• [Skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health): Open-label Spanish trial reported 40% itch reduction in atopic dermatitis after 2 weeks of topical seed gel (preliminary evidence)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects: In vitro studies show quercetin inhibits COX-2 and leaf phenolics aid IBD colon repair (preclinical evidence)
• Blood sugar regulation: Fruit polysaccharides inhibit tyrosine phosphatase (IC50 2.07 μg/mL) in laboratory studies (preclinical evidence)
• Respiratory support: Traditional use for cough and bronchitis; extracts show bronchodilation in tracheal models (traditional/preclinical evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Quince seeds contain mucilaginous polysaccharides that form protective hydrogels when hydrated, creating barrier effects on mucosal tissues. The phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid and quercetin derivatives modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production. These mechanisms contribute to both gastrointestinal protection and dermal anti-inflammatory effects.

## Clinical Summary

A small Iranian trial demonstrated that quince seed paste reduced IBS discomfort by 30% compared to baseline, though the study lacked a proper control group. An open-label Spanish study reported 40% reduction in atopic dermatitis-related itching after 2 weeks of topical quince seed gel application. Both studies represent preliminary evidence with limited sample sizes and methodological constraints. No large-scale randomized controlled trials have been conducted to confirm these effects.

## Nutritional Profile

Raw quince fruit (per 100g edible portion): Macronutrients: Carbohydrates 15.3g (primarily fructose 6.3g, glucose 4.3g, sucrose 1.6g), Dietary fiber 1.9g (mix of soluble pectin ~0.5-1.0g and insoluble cellulose), Protein 0.4g, Fat 0.1g, Water 83.8g, Energy 57 kcal. Micronutrients: Vitamin C 15mg (17% DV), Vitamin B6 0.04mg, Folate 3µg, Vitamin E 0.4mg, Potassium 197mg, Copper 0.13mg (14% DV), Iron 0.7mg, Magnesium 8mg, Phosphorus 17mg, Calcium 11mg, Zinc 0.04mg. Bioactive compounds: Polyphenols total ~200-500mg/100g fresh weight (values vary significantly by cultivar and ripeness); Phenolic acids: chlorogenic acid ~20-80mg/100g, 5-caffeoylquinic acid present; Flavonoids: quercetin glycosides ~10-30mg/100g, kaempferol derivatives ~5-15mg/100g, catechins ~5-20mg/100g; Tannins (condensed): ~100-300mg/100g contributing to astringency. Quince seeds (mucilage): Rich in polysaccharides (~16-20% dry weight), primarily xyloglucan and arabinoxylan, responsible for gel-forming properties used in traditional medicine. Bioavailability notes: Quercetin bioavailability from whole fruit is moderate (~25-50% absorption) due to bound glycoside forms requiring colonic hydrolysis; high tannin content may reduce iron absorption when consumed with meals; cooking substantially reduces Vitamin C (losses ~30-50%) but may increase polyphenol extractability; pectin content supports [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) effects with moderate fermentability in the colon. Data on exact carotenoid content is limited but beta-carotene and lutein are detected in trace amounts (<50µg/100g).

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied dosages are not standardized. The Iranian IBS trial used quince seed paste (dose unspecified), while the Spanish dermatitis trial applied topical seed gel for 2 weeks (quantity unspecified). No standardized extracts or specific dosage ranges for powder, fruit, or leaf forms are documented in human studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Quince fruit is generally safe for consumption, but the seeds contain amygdalin which releases hydrogen cyanide when chewed and should be avoided. Topical quince preparations may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. No significant drug interactions have been reported, though the mucilaginous properties may theoretically affect absorption of oral medications if taken simultaneously. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established through clinical studies.

## Scientific Research

Human clinical evidence for quince is limited to small preliminary trials without published PMIDs. A small randomized trial in Iran (2018) tested quince seed paste in IBS patients showing 30% symptom reduction, and a Spanish open-label trial found 40% itch reduction in atopic dermatitis with topical seed gel. Most evidence derives from animal, in vitro, or traditional studies rather than robust human trials.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Quince has been used for over 2,000 years in Persian, Ayurvedic, and European traditional systems for digestive issues (diarrhea, dyspepsia, gastritis), respiratory conditions (cough, bronchitis), and other ailments. Seeds traditionally treat dysentery and cough, while leaves address diabetes and urinary issues, as documented in texts from Nadkarni (1976) and regional ethnobotany.

## Synergistic Combinations

Slippery elm, marshmallow root, psyllium, chamomile, licorice root

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much quince should I take for digestive issues?

The Iranian IBS study used quince seed paste, but no standardized dosing exists. Most traditional preparations use 1-2 teaspoons of seed mucilage mixed with water, though clinical validation is lacking.

### Can quince seeds be eaten safely?

No, quince seeds contain amygdalin which releases toxic hydrogen cyanide when chewed. Only the fruit flesh should be consumed, while seeds are used externally or processed into mucilage preparations.

### Does quince interact with diabetes medications?

No specific interactions with diabetes drugs have been reported. However, quince fruit contains natural sugars and the mucilaginous compounds may theoretically affect medication absorption timing.

### How long does topical quince gel take to work for skin issues?

The Spanish atopic dermatitis study showed 40% itch reduction after 2 weeks of application. Individual responses may vary, and this represents preliminary evidence from one small trial.

### What's the difference between quince fruit and seed benefits?

Quince fruit provides vitamin C and fiber for general health, while the seeds contain mucilaginous compounds responsible for anti-inflammatory effects. Seeds are processed into gels rather than eaten directly due to toxicity concerns.

### What forms of quince are most bioavailable—whole fruit, seed extract, or leaf preparations?

Quince seed gel and paste forms show the highest bioavailability for active compounds like quercetin and mucilage, as demonstrated in clinical trials for IBS and atopic dermatitis. Whole fruit provides fiber and pectin but delivers lower concentrations of the phenolic compounds responsible for anti-inflammatory effects. Leaf preparations are less studied in humans, though in vitro evidence suggests their polyphenols are readily available for absorption.

### Is quince safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers?

There is insufficient clinical evidence to establish safety for quince supplementation during pregnancy and lactation, so supplemental use should be avoided without medical guidance. The whole fruit in normal dietary amounts is generally recognized as safe, but concentrated seed pastes and extracts lack human safety data in these populations. Women in these categories should consult a healthcare provider before using quince supplements.

### Who benefits most from quince supplementation—people with specific IBS subtypes or all digestive complaints?

Current evidence is limited to a small Iranian trial showing benefit specifically for IBS discomfort, so efficacy for other digestive conditions like functional constipation or general bloating remains unclear. The preliminary 30% improvement in IBS symptoms suggests potential for this population, but subtype-specific data (IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-M) are not yet available. Individuals with general indigestion or non-IBS conditions should consider whole fruit sources rather than concentrated supplements until more targeted research emerges.

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