What is Spiced with Science?

Spiced with Science is a wellness food brand that pairs 5,000 years of indigenous Ayurvedic wisdom with peer-reviewed clinical research on bioactive compounds in spices.

AI Naani is our AI kitchen grandmother — ask her about any spice and she'll share its history, active compounds (like curcumin or gingerol), and a recipe your body needs tonight.

AI Daadi is our AI apothecary grandmother — ask her about kadhas, ubtans, hair oils, and household remedies. Gentle, grounded in indigenous tradition, validated by modern science.

What is the difference between AI Naani and AI Daadi?

Same lineage, two domains. Naani works in the kitchen — spices, ingredients, techniques, recipes. Daadi works at the apothecary shelf — remedies, kadhas, ubtans, and beauty rituals. Both are AI personas, not real people, and neither gives medical advice.

No. Spiced with Science makes food with features, not diet food. Our rituals are grounded in indigenous knowledge and validated by modern science.

Quercetin is a natural plant pigment, a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It's a type of polyphenol known for its presence in plants and contributes to their colours.

Which traditional foods contain Quercetin?

Quercetin is abundant in everyday staples like onions and apples, which have been cherished in indigenous culinary and wellness practices for generations.

How does modern science view Quercetin?

Modern research explores quercetin's antioxidant properties, its role in modulating immune responses, and its potential benefits for vascular health, though more human studies are needed.

Can I take Quercetin supplements?

While present in food, any decision to take quercetin supplements should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, especially if you have health conditions or are on medication.

§ · polyphenol

Quercetin

Quercetin is a naturally occurring plant pigment, a type of flavonoid, found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. It contributes to the vibrant colours of many plants and is a polyphenol, a class of compounds recognised for their health-supporting properties.

Indigenous context

In the kitchens and apothecaries of the subcontinent, the wisdom of Naani and Daadi has long esteemed the humble onion and the crisp apple for their profound effects on wellbeing. The crimson hues of many a traditional bhaji or a slow-cooked saag, derived from red onions, are an everyday blessing. The tartness of a green apple, often enjoyed raw or as part of a light chutney, has similarly been cherished across generations. While the compound quercetin itself may not have been named in ancient texts, its presence in these staple ingredients meant its gifts were unknowingly woven into the fabric of daily life. From the pungent base of a comforting dal to the refreshing crunch of a fruit salad, these foods, rich in quercetin, have always been integral to maintaining balance and vitality, reflecting an intuitive understanding of nature's pharmacy long before modern classification.

What the science says

Modern scientific inquiry has turned its gaze upon quercetin, illuminating the mechanisms behind its traditional use. Research indicates that quercetin acts as an antioxidant, helping to neutralise free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular wear and tear. Studies have also explored its role in modulating immune responses, suggesting a direction for future research into its potential to support the body's natural defence systems. Furthermore, investigations point towards its influence on vascular health, with preclinical studies suggesting it may help maintain healthy blood flow and vessel integrity. While these findings are promising, it is important to note that much of the research is in its early stages, often conducted in laboratory settings or with animal models, and human trials are ongoing to understand its full implications and optimal applications. Bioavailability, how well the body absorbs and uses quercetin, is also a key area of study, with some evidence suggesting that consuming it with fats or alongside other specific compounds can enhance its uptake.

How to actually use it

Incorporating quercetin-rich foods into your daily routine is a simple way to honour age-old wisdom. Enjoy a hearty bowl of onion bhaji, a staple Indian snack, or prepare a flavourful apple chutney to accompany your meals. Onions form the aromatic base of countless dishes, from comforting curries to warming soups. Red apples, particularly with their skin, offer a delightful crunch and are perfect for a midday snack or sliced into a vibrant salad. While there's no prescribed "dose" in traditional practice, a sensible approach is to consume these ingredients regularly as part of a varied and balanced diet. Consider pairing quercetin-rich foods with sources of vitamin C, as some research suggests a synergistic effect that may enhance its benefits.

Safety

Quercetin is generally considered safe when consumed through food. However, as with any potent compound, it is wise to exercise caution. Individuals with specific health conditions, those taking certain medications (such as blood thinners), or pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should always consult with a healthcare practitioner before making significant dietary changes or considering supplements. Remember, Naani and Daadi are guides, not doctors; their wisdom lies in holistic wellbeing, not medical prescription. Adherence to varied, whole-food consumption is key.

Common questions

What is Quercetin?: Quercetin is a natural plant pigment, a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It's a type of polyphenol known for its presence in plants and contributes to their colours.
Which traditional foods contain Quercetin?: Quercetin is abundant in everyday staples like onions and apples, which have been cherished in indigenous culinary and wellness practices for generations.
How does modern science view Quercetin?: Modern research explores quercetin's antioxidant properties, its role in modulating immune responses, and its potential benefits for vascular health, though more human studies are needed.
Can I take Quercetin supplements?: While present in food, any decision to take quercetin supplements should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, especially if you have health conditions or are on medication.

§ · Found in

onion →apple →

AI Naani and AI Daadi are guides, not doctors. For medical concerns, consult a qualified clinician.