# Xanthoangelol **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/xanthoangelol **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-04-01 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** Prenylated chalcone from Angelica keiskei, Ashitaba chalcone, XA compound, Angelica keiskei chalcone, Yellow chalcone extract ## Overview Xanthoangelol is a prenylated chalcone isolated from Angelica keiskei (ashitaba) that exerts its primary effects by inhibiting monoamine oxidase enzymes and inducing mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathways. It has demonstrated antibacterial, anti-obesity, and anti-tumor activity in preclinical cell and animal models. ## Health Benefits • Suppression of obesity-induced [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), based on preclinical studies. • Demonstrates antibacterial effects in vitro models. • Inhibition of monoamine oxidase observed in laboratory settings. • Induction of apoptosis in neuroblastoma cells in preclinical research. • Pro-apoptotic activity in leukemia cells, as shown in animal models. ## Mechanism of Action Xanthoangelol inhibits monoamine oxidase A and B (MAO-A/B) by competitively binding their active sites, potentially elevating synaptic monoamine levels such as [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) and dopamine. It triggers intrinsic apoptosis in cancer cells by upregulating pro-apoptotic Bax, downregulating Bcl-2, and activating caspase-3 and caspase-9 cascades. Additionally, it suppresses obesity-associated inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) expression including TNF-α and IL-6. ## Clinical Summary All current evidence for xanthoangelol derives from in vitro cell culture studies and rodent preclinical models; no human clinical trials have been conducted to date. In neuroblastoma cell lines (SH-SY5Y and IMR-32), xanthoangelol induced apoptosis at micromolar concentrations (IC50 values reported in the 5–20 µM range depending on cell line). Animal studies in diet-induced obese mice showed reductions in adipose tissue [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers, though exact dosing protocols varied across studies. The absence of pharmacokinetic, bioavailability, and human safety data means efficacy claims cannot be extrapolated to humans at this stage. ## Nutritional Profile Xanthoangelol is a prenylated chalcone (C₂₅H₂₈O₄, MW ~392.49 g/mol) and is not a nutritional food source per se; it is a bioactive phytochemical found primarily in Angelica keiskei (Ashitaba). Key details: • Classification: Prenylated chalcone (a subclass of flavonoids/chalconoids). • Natural concentration: Found in the yellow exudate/sap of Ashitaba stems and leaves at concentrations typically ranging from approximately 0.1–1.5% of dry weight of the plant's sap/exudate; whole leaf dry weight concentrations are considerably lower, estimated at roughly 0.01–0.1% depending on plant part and growing conditions. • Co-occurring bioactives in Ashitaba: Often found alongside 4-hydroxyderricin (another prenylated chalcone), coumarins, luteolin, and other flavonoids. • Solubility & bioavailability: Xanthoangelol is lipophilic; oral bioavailability in humans has not been well-characterized but is expected to be limited due to poor aqueous solubility and potential first-pass hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). Lipid-based delivery or co-administration with dietary fats may enhance absorption. Some preclinical pharmacokinetic data suggest rapid metabolism and moderate tissue distribution. • No macronutrient contribution (protein, carbohydrate, fat, or fiber) as it is consumed in trace amounts as a phytochemical rather than as a caloric nutrient. • No significant vitamin or mineral content attributable to the compound itself. • Mechanism-relevant chemistry: The α,β-unsaturated carbonyl (chalcone scaffold) and prenyl side chain are critical for its biological activities, including [NF-κB](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) inhibition, MAO inhibition, and pro-apoptotic signaling. The prenyl group enhances membrane permeability relative to non-prenylated chalcones. • Typical research doses (preclinical, in vivo rodent models): 25–100 mg/kg body weight; in vitro IC₅₀ values for various targets range from approximately 1–50 µM depending on the assay (e.g., ~5.8 µM for MAO-A inhibition; ~10–30 µM range for apoptosis induction in cancer cell lines). • No established Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) or Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) exists for humans. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available for xanthoangelol. Preclinical studies use up to 100 mg/mL in DMSO for in vitro purposes. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions No human safety data or established tolerable dosage ranges exist for xanthoangelol as a purified compound. Because it inhibits MAO-A and MAO-B, concurrent use with antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics) or other MAO inhibitors carries a theoretical risk of [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) syndrome and should be avoided. Its pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative activities suggest potential interactions with chemotherapeutic agents, warranting caution in oncology patients without medical supervision. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been studied, and use is not recommended in these populations. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials or meta-analyses were identified for xanthoangelol. The evidence available is limited to preclinical studies, and no PubMed PMIDs are provided in the sources. ## Historical & Cultural Context No historical or traditional medicinal uses of xanthoangelol are documented. It is primarily studied for its bioactive properties in modern research, particularly in extracts from Angelica keiskei (Ashitaba). ## Synergistic Combinations Curcumin, Resveratrol, Quercetin, Green Tea Extract, Berberine ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What plant does xanthoangelol come from? Xanthoangelol is a prenylated chalcone isolated from the roots and stems of Angelica keiskei, a Japanese plant commonly called ashitaba or 'tomorrow's leaf.' The compound belongs to a family of bioactive chalcones also including 4-hydroxyderricin, another prominent constituent of the same plant. ### Does xanthoangelol work as an antidepressant? Xanthoangelol inhibits both MAO-A and MAO-B enzymes in laboratory assays, which is the same mechanism exploited by prescription MAO inhibitor antidepressants. However, no human clinical trials have tested its antidepressant efficacy or safety, and its oral bioavailability in humans is unknown, making any antidepressant claim premature. ### Can xanthoangelol kill cancer cells? In preclinical studies, xanthoangelol induced apoptosis in neuroblastoma cell lines and showed pro-apoptotic activity in other cancer cell types at micromolar IC50 concentrations via Bax/Bcl-2 modulation and caspase activation. These are in vitro findings only; no human cancer trials exist, and cell culture results frequently do not translate directly to clinical outcomes. ### Is xanthoangelol safe to take with antidepressants? Combining xanthoangelol with SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, or other MAO inhibitors is potentially hazardous due to xanthoangelol's MAO-inhibiting activity, which could elevate serotonin to toxic levels (serotonin syndrome). Until human pharmacokinetic and interaction data are available, individuals on any antidepressant medication should avoid xanthoangelol supplements without explicit physician guidance. ### What is the difference between xanthoangelol and 4-hydroxyderricin? Both xanthoangelol and 4-hydroxyderricin are prenylated chalcones from Angelica keiskei and share similar biological activities including anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects. Structurally, they differ in the position and type of prenyl substituent on the chalcone backbone, and some studies suggest 4-hydroxyderricin may have comparatively stronger lipid-lowering effects in rodent models, though direct head-to-head human data are lacking. ### What does research show about xanthoangelol's effects on inflammation from obesity? Preclinical studies demonstrate that xanthoangelol can suppress inflammation associated with obesity, suggesting potential metabolic benefits. However, current evidence is limited to laboratory and animal models, and human clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and establish effective dosing. The mechanism appears to involve modulation of inflammatory pathways triggered by excess adipose tissue. ### Does xanthoangelol have antimicrobial properties? Yes, xanthoangelol demonstrates antibacterial effects in in vitro laboratory models, showing promise against various bacterial strains. However, these results are from controlled test-tube studies and have not yet been validated in human clinical trials or in vivo animal models. More research is needed to determine whether these effects translate to meaningful antimicrobial benefits in living organisms. ### Who should avoid xanthoangelol based on current research? Because xanthoangelol inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO) in laboratory settings, individuals taking MAO inhibitor medications or certain antidepressants should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing. People with blood clotting disorders should exercise caution, as some coumarins and related compounds may have anticoagulant properties. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid supplementation until safety data becomes available, as no adequate human studies currently exist. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*