What are the health effects of apigenin and is it safe?

Answer:

Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is a flavonoid compound naturally found in different vegetables and herbs, particularly parsley and chamomile (Sung, J Cancer Prev 2016). Apigenin has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, sedative, and other potentially beneficial activities in laboratory studies.

Based on this evidence, apigenin is promoted for numerous health conditions, including cancer, insomnia, boosting mood, cognitive function and memory, protecting the kidneys, lowering blood pressure, controlling blood sugar, preventing heart disease, reducing symptoms of menopause, and helping with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but there is no convincing evidence that apigenin provides a significant benefit in any of these conditions. In fact, there have not been any published, clinical studies of apigenin and all studies to date appear to have been conducted with plant extracts (mainly chamomile) containing apigenin rather than isolated apigenin. Isolated apigenin can be unstable and poorly bioavailable.

Sign in as a member for details about research evaluating apigenin for various uses, and possible safety concerns. Also, if you are considering increasing your intake of apigenin, learn how to choose an apigenin supplement with apigenin that is mostly likely to be absorbed by the body, and find out how much apigenin is in foods such as parsley, chamomile, celery, rutabaga, kumquat and artichoke.