# Apigenin (Flavonoid)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/apigenin
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Compound
**Also Known As:** 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone, 5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-one, Apigenol, Chamomile flavonoid, Versulin, C15H10O5, 4',5,7-trihydroxy-2-phenyl-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one

## Overview

Apigenin is a flavone compound found in parsley, celery, and chamomile that exhibits [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and antioxidant properties through its unique C2-C3 double bond structure. This bioactive flavonoid works primarily by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase while scavenging [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant properties: Exhibits moderate [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) due to its C2-C3 double bond structure (preclinical evidence only)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects: Shows strong anti-inflammatory properties attributed to C2-C3 double bond and B-ring positioning (preclinical evidence only)
• Anti-tumor activity: Demonstrates potential anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies (preclinical evidence only)
• [Autophagy](/ingredients/condition/longevity) induction: Induces autophagy in leukemia cells in laboratory settings (preclinical evidence only)
• Note: All benefits based on preclinical research; no human clinical trials were found in the research dossier

## Mechanism of Action

Apigenin exerts its effects through multiple molecular pathways, primarily inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes that produce [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mediators. The compound's C2-C3 double bond and B-ring hydroxyl groups enable direct [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing and metal ion chelation. Apigenin also modulates nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways, reducing inflammatory cytokine production.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for apigenin consists primarily of preclinical studies in cell cultures and animal models, with limited human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies demonstrate significant [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity with IC50 values ranging from 10-50 μM for COX inhibition. Small human studies on chamomile extract (containing apigenin) suggest mild anti-anxiety effects, but isolated apigenin supplementation lacks robust clinical validation. Most research focuses on apigenin's potential anti-cancer properties, though human efficacy data remains insufficient.

## Nutritional Profile

Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is a pure flavonoid compound (molecular weight: 270.24 g/mol), not a whole food, so traditional macronutrient/micronutrient profiling does not apply. As a bioactive compound: Primary identity: Flavone subclass of flavonoids, comprising a phenyl-benzopyranone backbone with hydroxyl groups at positions 4', 5, and 7. Natural dietary concentrations: Parsley (dried): 45,000–180,000 mg/kg dry weight (highest known source); Chamomile flowers (dried): 3,000–5,000 mg/kg; Celery: 19–100 mg/kg fresh weight; Artichokes: 3–11 mg/kg fresh weight; Oregano (dried): ~1,500–4,000 mg/kg. Typical dietary intake: Estimated 0.45–1.5 mg/day in Western diets. Bioavailability: Oral bioavailability is low (estimated <1–5% in free aglycone form) due to poor water solubility (logP ~2.7) and rapid Phase II [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) (glucuronidation and sulfation in intestinal epithelium and liver). Glycosylated forms (e.g., apigenin-7-glucoside from parsley) require gut microbiota hydrolysis before absorption, delaying but potentially enhancing bioavailability. Peak plasma concentrations in human studies: approximately 0.1–0.5 µmol/L following typical dietary intake. Half-life: approximately 91 hours (extended due to enterohepatic recirculation). Protein binding: >95% bound to serum albumin. No caloric, fiber, vitamin, or mineral content as an isolated compound.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for apigenin in any form (extract, powder, or standardized preparations) were identified in the available research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Apigenin appears generally safe when consumed through food sources, with no significant adverse effects reported in preclinical studies at typical supplemental doses (50-100mg daily). The compound may interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially affecting drug [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) of medications like warfarin and certain chemotherapy agents. Limited data exists regarding safety during pregnancy and lactation, so avoidance is recommended. High-dose supplementation may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals a significant gap in clinical evidence - no human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses for apigenin were identified. All available evidence comes from preclinical laboratory and cell culture studies examining [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and anti-tumor properties.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research dossier did not provide information on traditional or historical uses of apigenin in any traditional medicine systems. No historical context or duration of traditional use was documented.

## Synergistic Combinations

Other flavonoids, quercetin, luteolin, chamomile extract, parsley extract

## Known Interactions

| Substance | Severity | Summary | URL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emodin | SAFE | Apigenin and Emodin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/emodin |
| Sea Moss | SAFE | Apigenin and Sea Moss — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/sea-moss |
| Spermidine | SAFE | Apigenin and Spermidine — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/spermidine |
| Urolithin A | SAFE | Apigenin and Urolithin A — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/urolithin-a |
| Adrafinil | SAFE | Adrafinil and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/adrafinil |
| Serrapeptase | SAFE | Serrapeptase and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/serrapeptase |
| Phenibut | SAFE | Phenibut and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/phenibut |
| Tianeptine | SAFE | Tianeptine and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/tianeptine |
| Fadogia Agrestis | SAFE | Fadogia Agrestis and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/fadogia-agrestis |
| Nattokinase | SAFE | Nattokinase and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/nattokinase |
| Cistanche | SAFE | Cistanche and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/cistanche |
| Black Walnut Hull | SAFE | Black Walnut Hull and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/black-walnut-hull |
| Lumbrokinase | SAFE | Lumbrokinase and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/lumbrokinase |
| Wormwood | SAFE | Wormwood and Apigenin — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/wormwood |
| Ashwagandha | SAFE | Apigenin and Ashwagandha — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/ashwagandha |
| Rhodiola Rosea | SAFE | Apigenin and Rhodiola Rosea — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/rhodiola-rosea |
| Maca Root | SAFE | Apigenin and Maca Root — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/maca-root |
| Ginseng (Panax) | SAFE | Apigenin and Ginseng (Panax) — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/panax-ginseng |
| Lions Mane | SAFE | Apigenin and Lions Mane — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/lions-mane |
| Reishi | SAFE | Apigenin and Reishi — No Known Interaction | https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/interactions/reishi |

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What foods contain the most apigenin?

Parsley contains the highest apigenin concentrations at approximately 215mg per 100g fresh weight, followed by celery leaves (19mg/100g) and dried chamomile flowers (3-5mg/g). Other sources include oranges, onions, and wheat sprouts, though in much lower concentrations.

### What is the recommended apigenin dosage?

No official dosage guidelines exist for apigenin supplements, but research studies typically use 50-100mg daily. Most commercial supplements contain 25-50mg per serving, often combined with other flavonoids for enhanced absorption.

### Does apigenin help with sleep and anxiety?

Apigenin may promote relaxation through its binding to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, particularly when consumed as chamomile tea. However, isolated apigenin supplements lack clinical evidence for sleep or anxiety benefits, with most positive studies using whole chamomile extracts.

### Can apigenin interact with medications?

Apigenin may inhibit CYP3A4 and CYP2C9 enzymes, potentially increasing blood levels of medications like warfarin, some statins, and certain chemotherapy drugs. Consult healthcare providers before combining apigenin supplements with prescription medications.

### Is apigenin better absorbed with other compounds?

Apigenin absorption is enhanced when consumed with fats or oils due to its lipophilic nature, and piperine (from black pepper) may increase bioavailability by up to 200%. Many supplements include quercetin or vitamin C to improve stability and absorption.

### How does apigenin's chemical structure contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects?

Apigenin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are primarily attributed to its C2-C3 double bond structure and the positioning of its B-ring, which allow it to neutralize free radicals and modulate inflammatory pathways. These structural features enable apigenin to donate electrons to reactive oxygen species, though most evidence for these mechanisms comes from laboratory and preclinical studies rather than human clinical trials. The specific positioning of hydroxyl groups on the flavonoid backbone also contributes to its ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and signaling molecules.

### What does current research show about apigenin's potential anti-cancer properties?

Laboratory and preclinical studies demonstrate that apigenin exhibits potential anti-tumor activity through multiple mechanisms, including cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction in cancer cell lines. However, it is crucial to note that these anti-cancer effects have only been observed in controlled laboratory settings and animal models, not yet conclusively proven in human clinical trials. Current evidence does not support apigenin as a standalone cancer treatment, and anyone with cancer concerns should consult with oncology professionals rather than relying on apigenin supplementation.

### Who is most likely to benefit from apigenin supplementation based on current evidence?

Individuals interested in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support may be candidates for apigenin supplementation, though robust clinical evidence in human populations remains limited. Those already consuming apigenin-rich foods (such as chamomile tea, parsley, and celery) may achieve modest intake without supplements. People with specific health concerns should consult healthcare providers before starting apigenin supplements, particularly those on medications or with pre-existing health conditions, as individual responses and interactions vary significantly.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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