# Neobavaisoflavone **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/neobavaisoflavone **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-27 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** Prenylated isoflavone from Psoralea corylifolia, Bavachi isoflavone, Buguchi flavonoid, 3'-prenylisoflavone, Psoralea neobavaisoflavone, C₂₀H₁₈O₄ isoflavonoid ## Overview Neobavaisoflavone is an isoflavonoid compound found in Psoralea corylifolia that demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It works primarily through the SPLET mechanism to neutralize [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and inhibits [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production. ## Health Benefits • [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant): Computational studies (2023) show effective scavenging of peroxyl radicals and nitrogen dioxide radicals through SPLET mechanism (preliminary evidence) • Anti-inflammatory effects: Inhibits production of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated macrophages (in vitro evidence) • DNA polymerase inhibition: Exhibits inhibitory activity against DNA-directed DNA polymerase and platelet aggregation (in vitro evidence) • Apoptosis induction: Functions as an apoptosis inducer targeting p53, caspase, and Bcl-2/Bax pathways (in vitro evidence) • Estrogen receptor interaction: Shows ability to interact with estrogen receptors (mechanism-based evidence only) ## Mechanism of Action Neobavaisoflavone operates through the Sequential Proton Loss Electron Transfer (SPLET) mechanism to effectively scavenge peroxyl radicals and nitrogen dioxide radicals. The compound inhibits the production of key [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-12p40, and IL-12p70. This dual [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)-anti-inflammatory action suggests modulation of NF-κB and other inflammatory signaling cascades. ## Clinical Summary Current evidence for neobavaisoflavone is limited to computational and in vitro studies conducted in 2023. These preliminary investigations demonstrate radical scavenging activity and [cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) inhibition in laboratory settings. No human clinical trials, animal studies with dosage parameters, or safety data are currently available in peer-reviewed literature. The evidence remains at the preclinical stage and requires substantial research before therapeutic applications can be established. ## Nutritional Profile Neobavaisoflavone is a prenylated isoflavonoid (chemical formula: C₂₀H₁₈O₄; molecular weight: 322.36 g/mol) and is not a nutritional food source but rather a bioactive phytochemical. It is found in trace quantities in specific medicinal plants, primarily Psoralea corylifolia (Babchi) seeds, as well as in certain Erythrina and Dalbergia species. Typical concentrations in Psoralea corylifolia seed extracts range from approximately 0.1–1.5% w/w depending on extraction method and plant part. As an isolated compound, it contains no meaningful macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber) or micronutrients (vitamins, minerals). Key structural features include a 4'-hydroxyl group on the isoflavone backbone and a 3,3-dimethylallyl (prenyl) side chain at the C-8 position, which enhances lipophilicity compared to non-prenylated isoflavones. The prenyl group contributes to improved membrane permeability and potentially greater oral bioavailability relative to simple isoflavones such as daidzein or genistein, though specific human pharmacokinetic data remain limited. In vitro studies suggest moderate lipophilicity (estimated LogP ~4.0–4.5), indicating preferential absorption through lipid-based pathways. Bioavailability may be limited by Phase II hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) (glucuronidation and sulfation), similar to other isoflavonoids. No established dietary reference intake or recommended dosage exists for humans. Concentrations used in in vitro studies typically range from 1–50 μM. The compound is generally encountered as a minor secondary metabolite within whole-plant extracts rather than as a standalone dietary nutrient. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges for human use are available in the research. Commercial suppliers offer research-grade neobavaisoflavone at ≥98% purity dissolved in organic solvents, but human dosing protocols have not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions No safety data, side effect profiles, or drug interaction studies exist for neobavaisoflavone as an isolated compound. Safety during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in pediatric populations has not been established. Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications, immunosuppressive drugs, or other supplements remain unknown. Given the lack of human studies, dosage guidelines and contraindications have not been determined. ## Scientific Research The available research consists primarily of in vitro and computational studies rather than human clinical trials. A 2023 computational study published in New Journal of Chemistry examined the compound's [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties, but no human RCTs or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs were found in the provided research. ## Historical & Cultural Context Psoralea corylifolia (Bavachi or Buguchi) has been used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, primarily for skin conditions, vitiligo, and [immune support](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). However, the traditional use specifically refers to the whole plant extract rather than isolated neobavaisoflavone. ## Synergistic Combinations Other Psoralea corylifolia compounds, quercetin, resveratrol, green tea polyphenols, vitamin C ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What foods contain neobavaisoflavone naturally? Neobavaisoflavone is primarily found in Psoralea corylifolia (babchi), a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. The compound has not been extensively studied in common dietary sources, and concentrations in foods remain largely undocumented. ### How much neobavaisoflavone should I take daily? No established dosage recommendations exist for neobavaisoflavone supplements, as human clinical trials have not been conducted. Without safety and efficacy data, optimal dosing parameters cannot be determined. ### Can neobavaisoflavone help with inflammation? Laboratory studies show neobavaisoflavone inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12 variants. However, these anti-inflammatory effects have only been demonstrated in computational models and require human studies for validation. ### Is neobavaisoflavone better than other antioxidants? While 2023 computational studies suggest effective radical scavenging through the SPLET mechanism, direct comparisons with established antioxidants like vitamin C or vitamin E have not been conducted. Comparative efficacy remains unknown. ### What are the side effects of neobavaisoflavone supplements? No side effects or adverse reactions have been documented for neobavaisoflavone, primarily because human safety studies have not been performed. The safety profile of this compound remains completely unknown. ### Is neobavaisoflavone safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? There is currently insufficient clinical data on neobavaisoflavone use during pregnancy and breastfeeding to establish safety. As with most bioactive compounds, pregnant and nursing individuals should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing, as the compound's effects on fetal development and lactation have not been adequately studied in humans. ### Does neobavaisoflavone interact with common medications? Limited human data exists on drug interactions with neobavaisoflavone; however, as an inhibitor of DNA polymerase and modulator of inflammatory pathways, it may theoretically interact with medications metabolized through similar pathways. Anyone taking prescription medications, particularly anticoagulants or immunosuppressants, should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing. ### What does the current research evidence show about neobavaisoflavone's effectiveness? Most evidence for neobavaisoflavone is limited to in vitro (cell-based) and computational studies demonstrating anti-inflammatory cytokine inhibition and antioxidant activity through radical scavenging mechanisms. Clinical trials in humans are largely absent, making it premature to draw definitive conclusions about its real-world efficacy in supplement form. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*