Pure Apigenin belongs to the largest group of naturally occurring polyphenols called flavonoids.[i] The bioactive compound is found in various foods, notably chamomile, parsley and celery.[ii]
As a dietary supplement, research shows promising results that Pure Apigenin increases cognitive health and function, promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and enhances sleep quality.
History
Ancient Egypt
Apigenin-rich plants such as chamomile were used by the ancient Egyptians for their medicinal properties. Chamomile was considered a sacred herb used in herbal teas and balms for its calming effects and to treat various ailments.[iii]
Ancient Rome and Greece
Roman and Greek physicians, including Hippocrates, noted the medicinal properties of Apigenin-containing plants. Chamomile was used to treat digestive disorders, skin irritations, and as a sleep aid.[iv]
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Apigenin-rich herbs like parsley and chamomile have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to treat various conditions, including inflammation, anxiety, and digestive issues.[v]
Medieval Period
During the medieval period, chamomile was a common remedy in European herbal medicine. It was used to make “strewing herbs” for floors in homes and churches for its pleasant scent and insect-repelling properties.[vi]
Renaissance to Early Modern Period
Herbalists and botanists began documenting the medicinal properties of plants in more detail. John Gerard and Nicholas Culpeper, famous herbalists of the time, included chamomile in their herbal manuals, emphasising its use for calming and anti-inflammatory effects.[vii][viii]
19th Century
With the rise of modern pharmacology, the active components of medicinal plants began to be isolated and studied. Chamomile continued to be used widely, and its preparation as herbal teas became common in European households for treating colds, inflammation, and digestive issues.[ix]
20th Century
Early to Mid-20th Century: Scientific interest in flavonoids grew, leading to the isolation and identification of Apigenin and other flavonoids from plants. Researchers started to investigate the chemical structure and potential health benefits of Apigenin.[x]
Late 20th Century: Advances in biochemistry and pharmacology allowed for more detailed studies on the biological activities of Apigenin. Studies began to highlight its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.[xi]
21st Century
Extensive research has been conducted to understand the mechanisms of action of Pure Apigenin and its potential therapeutic applications. Modern studies have confirmed many of the traditional uses and discovered new potential health benefits, such as its neuroprotective and cardiovascular properties.[xii]
Modern Applications
Pure Apigenin is now recognized for its potential in various therapeutic areas, including cancer prevention and treatment, inflammation reduction, neuroprotection, and cardiovascular health. It is available in dietary supplements, herbal teas, and skincare products.[xiii]
Pure Apigenin has a long history rooted in traditional medicine and has evolved through centuries to become a subject of modern scientific research, confirming many of its traditional uses and uncovering new therapeutic potentials.
Pure Apigenin Benefits
Anti-anxiety and Sleep-enhancing Effects
Pure Apigenin, especially when derived from chamomile, has been used traditionally for its calming effects. It binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, exerting a mild sedative effect. Clinical trials have indicated that Pure Apigenin can significantly reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, improving sleep quality.[xiv]
Anti-cancer Potential
Pure Apigenin has shown promise in the prevention and treatment of various cancers. Studies have highlighted its ability to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. For instance, research has shown that Pure Apigenin can reduce the viability of colon cancer cells by up to 50%.[xv] In another study, Pure Apigenin inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells and decreased tumour size in animal models.[xvi]
Neuroprotective Effects
Pure Apigenin has been found to have neuroprotective properties that may benefit brain health and function. Research has shown that Pure Apigenin can protect neurons from damage and reduce neuroinflammation. Recent research has revealed that Pure Apigenin can potentially improve memory and learning and even prevent neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.[xvii]
Antioxidant Effects
Pure Apigenin exhibits strong antioxidant properties, helping to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This is crucial in preventing cellular damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Research indicates that Pure Apigenin can increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).[xviii]
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Pure Apigenin has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects. A study found that Pure Apigenin inhibits the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which play critical roles in the inflammatory response.[xix]
Cardiovascular Health
Pure Apigenin may contribute to cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles and reducing blood pressure. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry reported that Pure Apigenin supplementation in rats led to a significant decrease in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels.[xx]
Stress Reduction Effects:
Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress. High levels of cortisol over prolonged periods can lead to various health issues, including chronic stress. Pure Apigenin has been shown to modulate the release of cortisol, thereby potentially helping to reduce stress levels.[xxi]
Memory Enhancement:
Some studies suggest that Pure Apigenin may improve memory and learning ability.[xxii]
References:
[i] Salehi, B, Venditti, A, Sharifi-Rad, M, Kregiel, D, Sharifi-Rad, J, Durazzo, A, Lucarini, M, Sanrini, A, Souto, E, Novellino, E, Antolak, H, Azzini, E, Setzer, W & Martins, N 2019, ’The Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 6.
[ii] Salehi, B, Venditti, A, Sharifi-Rad, M, Kregiel, D, Sharifi-Rad, J, Durazzo, A, Lucarini, M, Sanrini, A, Souto, E, Novellino, E, Antolak, H, Azzini, E, Setzer, W & Martins, N 2019, ’The Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 6.
[iii] Srivastava, J. K., et al. “Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future,” Molecular Medicine Reports, vol. 3, no. 6, 2010, pp. 895-901.
[iv] Murray, M. T. “The Healing Power of Herbs: The Enlightened Person’s Guide to the Wonders of Medicinal Plants,” Three Rivers Press, 1995.
[v] Yuan, J., et al. “Chamomile: An overview of its medicinal properties and clinical significance,” Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, vol. 102, no. 1, 1991, pp. 171-185.
[vi] Duke, J. A, Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, CRC Press, 2002.
[vii] Gerard, J, The Herbal or General History of Plants, John Norton, 1597.
[viii] Culpeper, N, Culpeper’s Complete Herbal & English Physician, W. Foulsham & Co Ltd, 1653.
[ix] Duke, J. A, Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, CRC Press, 2002.
[x] Birt, D. F., et al, “Pharmacokinetics of apigenin and related compounds,” Cancer Letters, vol. 269, no. 2, 2008, pp. 167-181.
[xi] Shukla, S., et al, “Apigenin and cancer chemoprevention: Progress, potential and promise,” International Journal of Oncology, vol. 30, no. 1, 2007, pp. 233-245.
[xii] Nabavi, S. F., et al, “Apigenin as neuroprotective agent: of mice and men,” Pharmacological Research, vol. 128, 2018, pp. 359-365.
[xiii] Salehi, B., et al, “Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects of chamomile,” Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, vol. 23, no. 11, 2020, pp. 1499-1516.
[xiv] Gazola, A, Gosta, G, Castellanos, L, Ramos, F, Reginatto, F, de Lima, T, Schenkel, E 2015, ‘Involvement of GABAergic pathway in the sedative activity of apigenin, the main flavonoid from Passiflora quadrangularis pericarp’, Revista Brasileira de Farmacogenosia, vol. 25, no. 3.
[xv] Shukla, S., et al, “Apigenin and cancer chemoprevention: Progress, potential and promise,” International Journal of Oncology, vol. 30, no. 1, 2007, pp. 233-245.
[xvi] Cao, H. H., et al. “Apigenin induced apoptosis of human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells through mitochondria- and caspase-3-dependent pathways.” Anticancer Drugs, vol. 22, no. 3, 2011, pp. 286-297.
[xvii] Charriere, K, Schneider, V, Perrignon-Sommet, M, Lizard, G, Benani, A, Jacquin-Piques, A & Vejux, A 2024, ‘Exploring the Role of Apigenin in Neuroinflammation: insights and Implications’, Pub Med Central, vol. 25, no. 9.
[xviii] Xu, X., et al, “Antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects of apigenin on pancreatic cancer cells,” Journal of Cellular Physiology, vol. 229, no. 3, 2014, pp. 446-455.
[xix] Yoon, J. H., et al, “Apigenin inhibits PMA-induced MMP-9 expression by suppressing the MAPK and NF-κB pathways in human fibrosarcoma cells,” Molecular Cells, vol. 22, no. 3, 2006, pp. 291-299.
[xx] Zang, M., et al, “Apigenin and its effects on lipid metabolism and blood pressure,” Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, vol. 29, 2016, pp. 26-31.
[xxi] Salehi, B, Venditti, A, Sharifi-Rad, M, Kregiel, D, Sharifi-Rad, J, Durazzo, A, Lucarini, M, Sanrini, A, Souto, E, Novellino, E, Antolak, H, Azzini, E, Setzer, W & Martins, N 2019, ’The Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 6.
[xxii] Salehi, B, Venditti, A, Sharifi-Rad, M, Kregiel, D, Sharifi-Rad, J, Durazzo, A, Lucarini, M, Sanrini, A, Souto, E, Novellino, E, Antolak, H, Azzini, E, Setzer, W & Martins, N 2019, ’The Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 20, no. 6.
