Apigenin
Chamomile-derived flavonoid, a weak GABA-A benzodiazepine ligand with mild anxiolytic and sleep-supporting effects.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS APIGENIN?
Detailed overview
Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is a plant flavonoid found abundantly in chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), parsley and celery. Its main central action is as a weak positive modulator of the benzodiazepine site of the GABA-A receptor, producing mild anxiety-reducing and calming effects without strong sedation. As a polyphenol it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and inhibits the CD38 enzyme, a target in NAD+ and aging research. Oral bioavailability is poor, so only a small fraction of an ingested dose reaches the bloodstream.
Mechanism
GABA-A benzodiazepine site (weak PAM)
Evidence
Animal anxiolytic data + human chamomile trials
Legal status
Dietary supplement / food constituent
Receptor profile
- GABA-A benzodiazepine siteWeak
- CD38 enzymeModerate
- Inflammatory cytokines (NF-kB pathway)Moderate
- Oxidative stress / reactive oxygen speciesModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- Mild drowsiness or sedation, especially at higher supplement doses
- May potentiate other sedatives, hypnotics and benzodiazepines (additive sedation)
- Generally well tolerated at dietary levels; high-dose isolated supplementation is understudied
- Poor oral bioavailability: only a small fraction of the ingested amount reaches the circulation
- Theoretical drug interactions via inhibition of CYP enzymes (at high doses)
Contraindications · 4
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety of isolated high-dose supplementation not established, avoid
- Concurrent sedatives, benzodiazepines or alcohol: risk of additive sedation
- Before scheduled surgery: discuss in advance due to central and clotting effects
- Known Asteraceae (daisy family) allergy: chamomile-derived preparations may cross-react
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
Apigenin, a component of Matricaria recutita flowers, is a central benzodiazepine receptors-ligand with anxiolytic effects
Viola H, Wolfman C, Levi de Stein M, Wasowski C, Pena C, Medina JH, Paladini AC
Pharmacological profile of apigenin, a flavonoid isolated from Matricaria chamomilla
Avallone R, Zanoli P, Puia G, Kleinschnitz M, Schreier P, Baraldi M
Behavioral characterisation of the flavonoids apigenin and chrysin
Zanoli P, Avallone R, Baraldi M
Apigenin: a natural molecule at the intersection of sleep and aging
Kramer DJ, Johnson AA
The Effect of Oral Chamomile on Anxiety: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Salehi S, Zahra F, Tavakoli H
FAQ
FAQ
Chamomile-derived flavonoid, a weak GABA-A benzodiazepine ligand with mild anxiolytic and sleep-supporting effects.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.