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Clinical Effects of Polyphenolic Compounds on Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Lai YR, Liao YH, Huang L, Phuong Linh HB, Utami FA, Del Giudice MM, Ciprandi G, Chen YC

The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice, 2025

823 participants · 2 citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Polyphenolic compounds (e.g., catechins or quercetin) may reduce hypersensitivity and allergic symptoms, but clinical evidence remains inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic potential of polyphenolic compounds for managing allergic rhinitis (AR).

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed the effects of polyphenolic compounds on AR symptoms and quality of life (QoL).

RESULTS

Thirteen RCTs (823 participants) were included: seven enrolling patients with seasonal AR, and six with perennial AR. In seasonal AR, polyphenolic compounds significantly reduced total nasal symptom scores (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.75, p = 0.0001; I2 = 52.8%), sneezing (SMD = 0.58, p = 0.0042; I2 = 45.6%), and nasal itching (SMD = 0.54, p = 0.011; I2 = 41.7%). In perennial AR, total nasal symptom scores improved, while individual symptoms were inconclusive. The combined analysis of seasonal and perennial AR, along with a sensitivity analysis excluding two outlier trials, yielded a more conservative and robust estimate, showing reductions in total nasal symptom scores (SMD = 0.73, p < 0.0001; I2 = 38.1%), nasal obstruction (SMD = 0.50; p = 0.0003; I2 = 36.4%), and sneezing (SMD = 0.57; p < 0.0001; I2 = 25.7%). Overall certainty of evidence for key nasal symptom outcomes was low to very low due to inconsistency and risk of bias. Effects on QoL were not significant.

CONCLUSION

Polyphenolic compounds may serve as a…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 823 participants or records.

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