Overcoming the Quercetin Absorption Barrier: The EMIQ® Advantage
Quercetin is one of the most rigorously researched dietary bioflavonoids for moderating immune reactivity and stabilizing mast cells. However, conventional quercetin aglycone faces a major pharmacokinetic challenge: extremely poor water solubility and minimal oral bioavailability. In its raw form, standard quercetin is hydrophobic and largely excreted unabsorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, requiring massive oral doses that can cause digestive distress.
Source Naturals® AllerStrength® resolves this issue through patented EMIQ® (Enzymatically Modified Isoquercitrin). Produced via a natural enzymatic process that transfers glucose chains (alpha-oligoglucosyl groups) onto the bioflavonoid backbone, EMIQ transforms water-insoluble quercetin into a highly water-soluble glucoside complex.
Pharmacokinetic Parameter
Standard Quercetin Aglycone
EMIQ® (AllerStrength®)
Clinical Significance
Water Solubility
Virtually insoluble (< 0.01 mg/mL)
Complete aqueous solubility (~100 mg/mL)
Instant dissolution in the intestinal lumen
Relative Bioavailability (AUC)
Baseline (1x)
Up to 17x–40x higher
Dramatically higher peak plasma concentrations
Absorption Mechanism
Passive diffusion (erratic)
Enzymatic cleavage by mucosal lactase-phlorizin hydrolase
Rapid, consistent uptake across small intestine brush border
Onset of Action
Delayed (4 to 6+ hours)
Rapid (plasma peak within 15–30 minutes)
Fast support during acute environmental pollen flare-ups
Mechanism of Action: How AllerStrength® Modulates Allergic Pathways
Seasonal environmental allergens (such as tree, grass, and ragweed pollens, mold spores, and pet dander) cross-link with Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies bound to the surface of mucosal mast cells and basophils. This cross-linking activates intracellular calcium influx, triggering the rapid degranulation and release of histamine, leukotrienes, and pro-inflammatory prostaglandins.
The bioavailable flavonoids in AllerStrength act via multi-targeted biochemical mechanisms:
Mast Cell Stabilization: Quercetin metabolites inhibit the kinase pathways (including protein kinase C and MAP kinases) required for mast cell degranulation, blocking histamine secretion at the source.
Ocular Microcirculation Support: By decreasing capillary permeability and inhibiting nuclear factor kappa B (NF-?B) transcription, EMIQ helps reduce ocular hyperaemia (eye redness), conjunctival swelling, and excessive tearing (lacrimation).
Synergistic Histamine Degradation (Vitamin C + Magnesium): AllerStrength utilizes magnesium ascorbate—a non-acidic, buffered form of Vitamin C. Ascorbic acid works directly with endogenous enzymes such as diamine oxidase (DAO) to break down circulating histamine, while magnesium acts as a gentle cellular relaxant and cofactor to suppress bronchial and mucosal hypersensitivity.
Peer-Reviewed Clinical Research Supporting EMIQ®
Unlike ordinary seasonal allergy supplements that rely exclusively on general botanical lore, the active ingredient profile in Source Naturals AllerStrength is backed by double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials (RCTs):
1. Relief of Seasonal Pollinosis and Ocular Symptoms
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in Allergology International, researchers evaluated subjects with seasonal Japanese cedar pollinosis who were administered 100 mg of active EMIQ daily across an 8-week pollen season. The EMIQ group experienced statistically significant reductions in ocular symptom scores (p < 0.05), ocular congestion, and eye-itching intensity compared to the placebo cohort. Furthermore, activities of daily living (ADL) and overall quality-of-life (QOL) scores were markedly improved without any adverse sedative effects.
Citation: Hirabayashi, T., et al. (2009). Preventative effect of a flavonoid, enzymatically modified isoquercitrin on ocular symptoms of Japanese cedar pollinosis. Allergology International, 58(3), 373–382. PMID: 19295240.
2. Human Pharmacokinetics & Plasma Metabolite Bioavailability
Pharmacokinetic evaluation in human volunteers demonstrated that enzymatic transglycosylation of isoquercitrin dramatically optimizes bioaccessibility. Peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) of quercetin glucuronides were reached within 15 to 30 minutes following oral EMIQ ingestion, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) up to 17 times higher than identical stoichiometric doses of standard quercetin aglycone.
Citation: Murota, K., et al. (2010). Efficiency of absorption and metabolic conversion of quercetin and its glucosides in human intestinal cells. Arch Biochem Biophys, 501(1), 91–97.
Complete Ingredient Listing & Supplement Facts
Every batch of Source Naturals AllerStrength is manufactured in compliance with Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) in the USA, verifying potency, chemical identity, and purity.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Servings Per Container: 120
Amount Per Serving
% Daily Value
Vitamin C (as magnesium ascorbate)
50 mg (56% DV)
Magnesium (as magnesium ascorbate)
3 mg (1% DV)
EMIQ® Complex (Providing 50 mg of enzymatically modified isoquercitrin)
167 mg *
* Daily Value (% DV) not established.
Formula Details & Excipients
Other Ingredients: Dibasic calcium phosphate, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and magnesium stearate (vegetable source).
Allergen Specifications: Suitable for vegetarians. Contains NO yeast, dairy, egg, gluten, soy, wheat, sugar, starch, or salt.
Clean Formulation Standards: Formulated without artificial preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors, or synthetic fragrances. Non-GMO.
Recommended Usage & Clinical Timing Protocols
To maximize the stabilizing effects of AllerStrength on mucosal tissues, follow these expert guidelines:
Standard Daily Maintenance: Take 1 tablet twice daily (providing 100 mg of active bioavailable isoquercitrin and 100 mg of buffered Vitamin C per day).
Pre-Season Priming: For optimal outcomes during peak spring or autumn pollen seasons, begin supplementation 2 to 4 weeks prior to the anticipated pollination of regional triggers (tree, grass, or weed pollen).
Co-Administration with Meals: While EMIQ is water-soluble and absorbs rapidly on an empty stomach, taking tablets with food enhances gastric comfort and facilitates the absorption of accompanying minerals.
Synergistic Pairing: AllerStrength can be safely combined with saline nasal irrigations (Neti pot) and natural air purification to reduce physical allergen exposure.
Important Safety Information & Precautions
Pregnancy & Lactation: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, consult your physician before using this supplement. Bioflavonoid pharmacokinetics during gestation have not been fully established.
Drug Interactions: High doses of bioflavonoids like quercetin can inhibit Cytochrome P450 enzymes (specifically CYP3A4) and modulate P-glycoprotein. If you are taking prescription immunosuppressants (such as cyclosporine), blood thinners (warfarin), or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist prior to use.
Renal Considerations: Individuals with pre-existing kidney disease should monitor intake of supplemental flavonoids and minerals under clinical supervision.
Tamper Evident: Do not use if either tamper-evident seal is broken or missing. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Source Naturals AllerStrength
How does EMIQ® in AllerStrength compare to regular quercetin?
Regular quercetin aglycone has low aqueous solubility and poor human intestinal absorption. EMIQ® (Enzymatically Modified Isoquercitrin) attaches glucose molecules through an enzymatic process, making the compound 100% water-soluble. Human pharmacokinetic studies demonstrate that EMIQ reaches peak plasma levels within 15–30 minutes and achieves up to 17 to 40 times the bioavailability of unformulated quercetin.
Will Source Naturals AllerStrength make me drowsy?
No. Unlike first-generation pharmaceutical antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine) that cross the blood-brain barrier and cause sedation, AllerStrength works naturally at the cellular level by stabilizing cell membranes and modulating histamine release without central nervous system depression or drowsiness.
How long does it take for AllerStrength to work for seasonal discomfort?
Because EMIQ is water-soluble, active metabolites appear in the bloodstream within 30 minutes of consumption. For cumulative ocular and respiratory defense, clinical trials show peak benefits when individuals take 100 mg of active EMIQ daily for at least 2 to 8 weeks during seasonal pollen peaks.
Why is Vitamin C included as magnesium ascorbate?
Magnesium ascorbate is a non-acidic, buffered form of Vitamin C that is gentle on sensitive stomachs. Vitamin C works synergistically with bioflavonoids to support diamine oxidase (DAO)—the primary enzyme responsible for metabolizing circulating histamine—while magnesium supports respiratory and smooth-muscle relaxation.
Is AllerStrength gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians?
Yes. Source Naturals AllerStrength contains no gluten, wheat, yeast, dairy, egg, or soy. It is manufactured without animal derivatives and is fully suitable for vegetarians.
Can AllerStrength replace prescription allergy medication?
AllerStrength is a dietary supplement designed to support healthy immune function and seasonal comfort; it is not intended to treat, cure, or replace prescription allergy or asthma medications. Consult your physician before changing any medical regimen.
