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Not medical advice. The Atlas is not a substitute for a clinician who can examine you.

Apigenin

Apigenin / 4',5,7-Trihydroxyflavone (Parsley, Celery, Chamomile)

Evidence grade 2 of 5, Thin. Read how the Atlas grades evidence.

The evidence stays preliminary and mostly indirect, which supports a 2. No human randomized controlled trial has tested isolated apigenin at supplement doses for any outcome, a gap the Frontiers in Nutrition 2024 review states plainly, noting that more clinical work is needed to judge apigenin on its own as opposed to apigenin inside chamomile extract. Human data come from chamomile extract, a multi-compound preparation standardized to roughly 1.2 percent apigenin, so effects cannot be attributed to apigenin alone. Within that chamomile evidence, Amsterdam et al. 2009 (Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology) reported a significant reduction in Hamilton Anxiety scores in mild-to-moderate generalized anxiety disorder, but Zick et al. 2011 (BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine) found no significant difference from placebo on its primary sleep endpoints in chronic primary insomnia, and Mao et al. 2016 (Phytomedicine) missed its primary relapse-prevention endpoint (hazard ratio 0.52, p=0.16) while showing secondary symptom benefit on the GAD-7. The senolytic and NAD-raising positioning is preclinical: Escande et al. 2013 (Diabetes) showed CD38 inhibition and roughly doubled liver NAD in obese mice, and Zhang et al. 2025 (Advanced Science) classified apigenin as a senomorphic that suppresses the senescence secretory output without clearing senescent cells, in cells and mice only. A 2 reflects a real but preliminary signal, well short of RCT confirmation for the marketed sleep and longevity uses.

FDA
Legal supplement (DSHEA); food flavonoid
WADA
Not prohibited

Reference only. Not medical advice.

What can go wrong

Generally well tolerated from food and short-term chamomile trials, but isolated apigenin lacks human dosing data; main flags are CYP3A4/P-gp drug interactions, additive sedation, ragweed-family allergy, and precautionary avoidance in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Apigenin is a plant flavone, technically 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone, found in parsley, celery, chamomile, thyme, and other everyday foods, usually bound to sugars as glycosides. In supplements it is sold for sleep, calm, and healthy aging, positioning that draws on chamomile's long traditional use and on modern longevity stacks. The honest headline is a split one: the calming and sleep claims rest on chamomile extract trials rather than on isolated apigenin, and those trials are mixed, while the senolytic and NAD-raising longevity claims are so far preclinical, shown in cells and mice. No published human randomized trial has tested pure apigenin at the 25 to 50 mg doses common in capsules. It is a reasonable, low-drama compound with an interesting mechanistic story and thin human confirmation.

The dietary flavonoid with senolytic and sleep-modulating positioning.

What people take it for

These are the reasons people give for taking it. They are not effects it has been shown to have.

  • Sleep onset and quality (indirect, via chamomile extract; isolated apigenin untested in humans)
  • Generalized anxiety and everyday stress (chamomile RCT evidence, mixed)
  • General anti-inflammatory support (preclinical NF-kB and SASP suppression)
  • Longevity and healthy-aging positioning (preclinical CD38/NAD and senomorphic activity)
  • Inclusion in consumer longevity and senolytic supplement stacks (marketing positioning, ahead of human trial data)

Combinations named above are how people use these compounds together, under names the community gave them. The combinations themselves have not been studied. Evidence for one compound is not evidence for a pair.

How it is supposed to work

Apigenin is a naturally-occurring flavone (chemically 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone), a yellow-pigmented polyphenol found across many plant species with substantial concentrations in parsley (the substantial dietary apigenin source, ~45mg per 100g dried parsley), chamomile (substantial chamomile tea framework, ~3-8mg per 100g dried flowers), celery (modest contribution, ~0.5mg per 100g), oranges, onions, and various other dietary sources. The substantial pharmacological positioning has evolved substantially through the 2010s-2020s from substantial chamomile herbal medicine framework (substantial sedative and anxiolytic positioning) toward substantial NAD+ preservation framework (substantial CD38 NADase inhibition) and substantial longevity/anti-aging positioning following substantial research framework development by David Sinclair laboratory at Harvard Medical School and substantial broader longevity research framework integration. The substantial primary pharmacological mechanism centers on CD38 NADase inhibition. CD38 (cluster of differentiation 38) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that functions as substantial NADase (NAD+ glycohydrolase), substantially consuming NAD+ through enzymatic hydrolysis to nicotinamide and ADP-ribose. The substantial CD38 expression increases substantially with age across multiple tissues (the substantial "inflammaging" framework), substantial age-related CD38 upregulation substantially contributes to age-related NAD+ decline. The substantial Camacho-Pereira 2016 Cell Metabolism paper from Eduardo Chini's laboratory at Mayo Clinic foundationally demonstrated substantial CD38 elevation drives substantial age-related NAD+ decline; substantial CD38 inhibition substantially restores NAD+ levels in aged mice. The substantial apigenin-CD38 inhibition framework subsequently emerged as substantial pharmacological positioning, apigenin is among the substantial flavonoid CD38 inhibitors with substantial mechanistic plausibility for substantial NAD+ preservation framework. Secondary mechanisms include substantial anti-inflammatory effects through substantial NF-κB pathway modulation, substantial COX-2 inhibition, substantial TNF-α and IL-6 reduction, and substantial broader cytokine cascade modulation. Substantial preclinical evidence supports substantial anti-inflammatory positioning across various inflammatory contexts (arthritis models, colitis models, neuroinflammation models). Substantial neuroprotective effects through substantial BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) upregulation, substantial neuroinflammation modulation, and substantial blood-brain barrier crossing (substantial apigenin BBB penetration despite substantial bioavailability challenges). Substantial cardiovascular effects through substantial endothelial function support, substantial nitric oxide modulation, and substantial modest blood pressure effects. Substantial anxiolytic and mild sedative effects through substantial GABA-A receptor modulation (the substantial chamomile herbal medicine framework foundational mechanism), apigenin binds modestly at GABA-A receptor benzodiazepine site providing substantial modest anxiolytic effect. Substantial estrogen receptor modulation through substantial weak phytoestrogen activity, substantial complex estrogen receptor alpha and beta interactions; substantial dose-dependent and tissue-dependent effects. Limited clinical relevance at typical supplementation doses; substantial coordination consideration for users with hormone-sensitive conditions (substantial breast cancer, substantial endometriosis, others) is reasonable rather than substantial categorical concern. Substantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence, substantial in vitro and in vivo evidence across various cancer cell lines and animal models. Substantial multiple mechanisms including substantial apoptosis induction, substantial cell cycle modulation, substantial angiogenesis inhibition, and substantial chemoprevention positioning. The substantial preclinical-to-clinical translation remains substantially limited; substantial dietary apigenin intake has been associated with substantial modest cancer risk reduction in some epidemiological frameworks (substantial Mediterranean diet adherence with substantial parsley intake contributions). The substantial bioavailability profile presents substantial challenges. Apigenin has substantial low water solubility (~2.5 µg/mL), substantial poor oral absorption (~2-5% bioavailability), substantial extensive Phase II metabolism (substantial glucuronidation, sulfation), and substantial substantial gut microbial metabolism producing substantial bioactive metabolites (the substantial gut microbiome-flavonoid interaction creates substantial individual variability). The substantial apigenin glucuronide and sulfate conjugates produced through Phase II metabolism are themselves bioactive in many contexts; substantial systemic apigenin exposure substantially reflects substantial conjugated metabolite framework rather than substantial free apigenin alone. The substantial sustained-release formulations (liposomal, phytosome, micronized) may modestly improve bioavailability; substantial commercial framework has emerged for substantial advanced delivery technologies. The substantial commercial supplement category has expanded substantially through the 2020s. Substantial Renue By Science (apigenin liposomal positioning), Double Wood (mainstream apigenin), Life Extension (apigenin combination products), and various other brands provide substantial commercial availability. The substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol inclusion (50mg apigenin daily) reflects substantial premium consumer longevity protocol category positioning. The substantial dietary positioning through parsley intake (~45mg per 100g dried parsley substantially exceeds typical supplement dosing) provides substantial dietary supplementation alternative. The substantial chamomile tea heritage provides substantial traditional supplementation framework with substantial nutritional matrix advantage. The substantial pharmaceutical category remains essentially absent, apigenin positioned exclusively as dietary supplement and herbal medicine framework without substantial pharmaceutical category development through 2025.

How it is taken

Apigenin supplementation is typically dosed at 50-200mg daily depending on application and brand framework. The substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol uses 50mg daily, substantial premium consumer longevity protocol category positioning. Substantial mainstream supplement category dosing typically reflects substantial 50-100mg daily through standard capsule format with substantial bioavailability limitations. Substantial liposomal and phytosome formulations may use substantial lower dosing (25-100mg) with substantial bioavailability enhancement claims; clinical translation evidence for substantial bioavailability advantage remains limited. Take with or without food, apigenin absorption is reasonable either way, though substantial concurrent fat intake may modestly enhance absorption given substantial low water solubility profile. Many users prefer morning dosing as part of routine longevity protocol integration; substantial evening dosing may be reasonable for users seeking substantial mild anxiolytic effect through substantial GABA-A receptor modulation. Substantial sustained daily supplementation matters more than acute dosing, substantial NAD+ preservation and substantial broader longevity mechanisms operate through sustained cellular metabolic signaling rather than acute pharmacological effect. Substantial supplementation duration matters, meaningful effects likely require substantial sustained supplementation over months-to-years. Dietary apigenin intake provides substantial supplementation alternative or complement. Substantial dietary apigenin through parsley (~45mg per 100g dried, ~4-5mg per 100g fresh), chamomile (substantial chamomile tea framework), celery, oranges, onions can substantially complement or exceed typical supplement dosing. Substantial dietary positioning advantage through nutritional matrix, substantial cofactor polyphenol contributions and broader nutrient framework. Substantial Mediterranean diet adherence with substantial parsley consumption provides substantial dietary supplementation framework. Substantial chamomile tea (1-3 cups daily) provides substantial traditional supplementation framework. The drug interaction profile is modest for most users. Substantial GABA-A receptor modulation creates substantial mild interaction with benzodiazepines, alcohol, and broader CNS depressants; substantial mild antiplatelet effects warrant substantial INR monitoring for warfarin users. Substantial weak phytoestrogen activity creates substantial coordination consideration for hormone-sensitive conditions (breast cancer history, endometriosis); substantial individual coordination essential rather than blanket avoidance. The substantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence supports substantial supplementation framework for general adults; substantial active cancer or recent cancer history warrants substantial specialist oncology coordination. Pregnancy and lactation: limited safety data for substantial supplementation; substantial dietary intake generally considered safe. Substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional safe consumption framework. Pediatric use: substantial supplementation not appropriate without pediatrician coordination. The substantial bioavailability limitations create substantial individual variability, substantial gut microbiome composition substantially affects systemic apigenin exposure; substantial sustained supplementation may produce substantial individual response variability. The substantial substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol inclusion reflects substantial premium consumer longevity protocol category positioning; substantial mainstream alternatives provide substantial accessibility at substantially lower price point. Substantial dietary approach as foundational framework with supplements as substantial supplement reflects substantial reasonable supplementation philosophy.

Standard supplementation
50-200mg daily
Bryan Johnson Blueprint
50mg daily
Liposomal formulations
25-100mg daily (claimed bioavailability advantage)
Dietary intake through parsley
5-50mg achievable (parsley-rich diet)
Chamomile tea framework
1-3 cups daily (traditional)
Take with
With or without food; modest fat enhancement
Bioavailability
Low (~2-5%) standard capsule format
Sustained supplementation duration
Months-to-years for substantial longevity effects

Which form to buy

Not all preparations of the same ingredient are the same thing, and the trials were run on particular ones.

  • Standard Apigenin Capsules (50-100mg)

    Rating: gold

    The substantial standard apigenin supplement format, typically 50-100mg per capsule. Substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol uses 50mg daily; substantial broader supplement category typically uses 50-200mg daily dosing. Substantial bioavailability limitations apply to all standard capsule formats.

  • Liposomal Apigenin (Advanced Delivery)

    Rating: gold

    Substantial liposomal apigenin formulations (Renue By Science, Quicksilver Scientific, others) using substantial phosphatidylcholine encapsulation for substantial bioavailability enhancement. Substantial premium positioning; substantial bioavailability advantage versus standard capsule format though clinical translation evidence remains limited. Substantial higher pricing per dose.

  • Apigenin Phytosome / Phospholipid Complex

    Rating: good

    Substantial phytosome technology bound apigenin formulations using substantial soy phosphatidylcholine complexing. Substantial modest bioavailability enhancement versus standard capsule format. Substantial commercial category positioning.

  • Bryan Johnson Blueprint Apigenin Protocol

    Rating: gold

    Substantial premium consumer longevity protocol inclusion, 50mg apigenin daily as part of comprehensive Bryan Johnson Blueprint anti-aging protocol. Substantial mainstream consumer adoption demonstration.

  • Dietary Apigenin Through Whole Foods

    Rating: gold

    Substantial dietary apigenin intake through parsley (~45mg per 100g dried, ~4-5mg per 100g fresh), chamomile (substantial chamomile tea framework, ~3-8mg per 100g dried flowers), celery (~0.5mg per 100g), oranges, onions, and various other sources. Substantial Mediterranean diet positioning advantage through substantial parsley consumption, substantial dietary positioning advantage through nutritional matrix versus isolated supplementation.

  • Chamomile Tea (Traditional Herbal Framework)

    Rating: gold

    Substantial traditional chamomile tea framework providing substantial apigenin contribution alongside substantial broader chamomile phytochemical complement (matricin, chamazulene, alpha-bisabolol, others). Substantial traditional herbal medicine inheritance; substantial anxiolytic and sleep-supporting positioning. Substantial substantial dietary apigenin intake through routine chamomile tea consumption (substantial 1-3 cups daily framework).

  • Renue By Science Liposomal Apigenin

    Rating: good

    Substantial commercial liposomal apigenin positioning with substantial bioavailability enhancement framework. Premium category positioning; substantial direct-to-consumer marketing. ~25-50mg per dose typical.

  • Double Wood Apigenin

    Rating: good

    Substantial mainstream apigenin supplement at substantially lower price point than premium alternatives. Reasonable consumer choice for users seeking apigenin supplementation without substantial premium pricing commitment.

Who it works for, and who it does not

  • Adults pursuing comprehensive longevity supplementation protocols

    Strength of evidence for this group: modest

    Substantial NAD+ preservation framework provides substantial supplementation rationale for adults pursuing comprehensive longevity protocol integration. Substantial CD38 inhibition mechanism complements substantial NAD+ precursor framework (NMN, NR), substantial NAD+ precursors support synthesis; substantial CD38 inhibition (apigenin) reduces NAD+ degradation. Substantial complementary mechanism integration.

  • Adults with anxiety or sleep concerns

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial chamomile herbal medicine framework supports substantial mild anxiolytic positioning through substantial GABA-A receptor modulation. Substantial Amsterdam 2009 chamomile RCT demonstrated substantial anxiolytic effect in generalized anxiety. Modest effect sizes; reasonable supplementation framework as adjunct to comprehensive anxiety/sleep management.

  • Adults with anti-inflammatory concerns

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial anti-inflammatory mechanism through substantial NF-κB pathway modulation, substantial COX-2 inhibition, and substantial broader cytokine cascade modulation. Substantial preclinical evidence; limited human clinical trial evidence for substantial inflammatory disease applications. Reasonable supplementation framework as adjunct to comprehensive anti-inflammatory management.

  • Adults with cardiovascular concerns

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial preclinical cardiovascular evidence through substantial endothelial function support, substantial nitric oxide modulation, and substantial modest blood pressure effects. Limited human clinical trial evidence. Reasonable supplementation framework as adjunct to comprehensive cardiovascular management.

  • Adults with neuroprotective interests

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial preclinical neuroprotection evidence through substantial blood-brain barrier crossing, substantial BDNF upregulation, and substantial neuroinflammation modulation. Limited human clinical trial evidence for substantial neuroprotective applications. Reasonable supplementation framework for substantial cognitive aging concerns; calibrated expectations.

  • Adults pursuing dietary apigenin through whole foods

    Strength of evidence for this group: modest

    Substantial dietary apigenin intake through parsley, chamomile tea, celery, oranges, onions provides substantial whole-foods supplementation framework with substantial nutritional matrix advantage. Substantial dietary positioning advantage through cofactor polyphenol contributions and broader nutrient framework. Reasonable dietary approach as foundational framework with supplements as substantial supplement.

  • Adults with hormone-sensitive conditions (caution)

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial weak phytoestrogen activity through substantial complex estrogen receptor alpha and beta interactions. Limited clinical relevance at typical supplementation doses; substantial coordination consideration for users with hormone-sensitive conditions (substantial breast cancer history, substantial endometriosis, others) is reasonable. Specialist coordination essential for substantial hormone-sensitive contexts.

  • Adults with cancer history (caution)

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence; substantial preclinical chemoprevention positioning. Substantial individual cancer type variability; substantial coordination essential for users with active or recent cancer history. Substantial phytoestrogen activity adds substantial complexity for hormone-sensitive cancers.

  • Pregnancy and lactation

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Limited human pregnancy safety data; substantial phytoestrogen activity adds substantial coordination context. Substantial dietary intake through routine parsley, chamomile, celery consumption generally considered safe; substantial supplementation framework warrants specialist OB-GYN coordination. Substantial chamomile tea generally considered safe in moderate consumption.

  • Pediatric use

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Limited pediatric safety data for substantial supplementation; substantial dietary intake through whole foods generally considered safe. Substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional pediatric use framework but pediatrician coordination reasonable for substantial regular use. Substantial supplementation framework not appropriate without pediatrician coordination.

  • Adults on benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial GABA-A receptor modulation creates substantial theoretical interaction with benzodiazepines, alcohol, and broader CNS depressants. Substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses; substantial coordination reasonable.

  • Adults on anticoagulants

    Strength of evidence for this group: cautious

    Substantial modest antiplatelet effects through substantial flavonoid platelet modulation. Substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses; substantial INR monitoring reasonable for warfarin users.

Taken with other things

Combinations people actually use. Evidence for one ingredient is not evidence for a pair.

  • NMN, NR (NAD+ precursors)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial NAD+ preservation framework synergy, NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) support substantial NAD+ synthesis; apigenin inhibits CD38 NADase to substantially reduce NAD+ degradation. Substantial complementary mechanism integration for substantial NAD+ maintenance.

  • Spermidine (Autophagy Inducer)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial complementary longevity framework, spermidine induces autophagy; apigenin preserves NAD+ levels. Different but substantially complementary cellular maintenance frameworks. Substantial longevity polyphenol cluster integration.

  • Resveratrol, Pterostilbene (Sirtuin Activators)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial complementary longevity polyphenol framework, sirtuin activators support NAD+-dependent deacetylase activity; apigenin preserves NAD+ levels for sirtuin substrate availability. Substantial complementary mechanism integration.

  • Quercetin, Fisetin (Senolytic Flavonoids)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial flavonoid cluster integration, quercetin and fisetin function as substantial senolytic agents; apigenin functions as CD38 inhibitor and anti-inflammatory flavonoid. Substantial complementary flavonoid framework integration.

  • Curcumin, Boswellia (Anti-inflammatory)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial complementary anti-inflammatory framework, different but substantially complementary anti-inflammatory pathway modulation. Substantial broader longevity and anti-inflammatory framework integration.

  • Coenzyme Q10, PQQ (Mitochondrial Support)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial complementary mitochondrial framework, substantial CoQ10 and PQQ support mitochondrial function; apigenin supports substantial cellular metabolic framework. Substantial complementary cellular energy framework.

  • Chamomile Tea (Traditional Herbal Framework)

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial traditional chamomile tea framework provides substantial apigenin contribution alongside substantial broader chamomile phytochemical complement. Substantial complementary or substitution framework for supplemental apigenin.

  • Mediterranean Dietary Pattern

    Interaction: synergy

    Substantial Mediterranean dietary pattern with substantial parsley, oregano, celery, oranges, onions intake provides substantial dietary apigenin framework. Substantial dietary positioning advantage through nutritional matrix.

  • Benzodiazepines (Anti-anxiety/Sleep)

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial GABA-A receptor modulation creates substantial theoretical additive sedative effect with benzodiazepines. Substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses; substantial coordination reasonable for benzodiazepine users.

  • Alcohol (Substantial GABA Modulator)

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial GABA-A receptor modulation creates substantial theoretical additive sedative effect with alcohol. Substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses; substantial moderation reasonable.

  • Anticoagulants (Warfarin, DOACs, Antiplatelets)

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial modest antiplatelet effects through substantial flavonoid platelet modulation. Substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses; substantial INR monitoring for warfarin users.

  • Tamoxifen, Aromatase Inhibitors

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial weak phytoestrogen activity creates substantial theoretical interaction with hormone modulation therapies for breast cancer. Substantial coordination essential for users on hormone-targeted cancer therapies.

  • Hormone-Sensitive Cancer History

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial weak phytoestrogen activity creates substantial coordination context for users with hormone-sensitive cancer history (breast, endometrial, ovarian). Specialist oncology consultation essential.

  • Pregnancy and Lactation

    Interaction: caution

    Substantial phytoestrogen activity adds substantial coordination context for supplementation. Substantial dietary intake generally considered safe; substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional safe consumption framework. Specialist OB-GYN coordination for substantial supplementation.

What to look for on the label

Look for: explicit apigenin content per serving (typically 50-100mg per supplement capsule for standard format; 25-100mg for liposomal/phytosome formulations); substantial standardization specification (typically 95%+ apigenin in commercial extracts); reputable manufacturer with substantial quality control disclosure; bioavailability enhancement technology disclosure (liposomal, phytosome) where relevant. Avoid: products without specific apigenin content disclosure; aggressive marketing claims about specific longevity outcomes that exceed evidence base; very low-cost alternatives that may not maintain apigenin content; impulse purchasing based on Sinclair Lab or Bryan Johnson Blueprint association without ingredient evaluation. Substantial dietary apigenin through parsley intake and chamomile tea provides substantial alternative or complementary framework, substantial dietary positioning advantage through nutritional matrix.

Safety in detail

  • Generally very well-tolerated at standard daily dosing based on substantial consumer use record and accumulating clinical experience. Apigenin has substantial safety profile in healthy adults.
  • GI effects (mild nausea, modest stool changes) uncommon with initial supplementation; typically resolve with adjustment.
  • Substantial dietary apigenin intake through parsley, chamomile tea, celery, oranges, onions across many populations establishes substantial population-level safety framework.
  • Phytoestrogen activity is the substantial coordination consideration, substantial weak phytoestrogen activity creates substantial coordination context for hormone-sensitive conditions (breast cancer history, endometriosis); substantial dose-dependent and tissue-dependent effects.
  • GABA-A receptor modulation creates substantial theoretical interaction with benzodiazepines, alcohol, and broader CNS depressants, substantial mild interaction at typical supplement doses.
  • Anti-platelet effects through substantial flavonoid platelet modulation create substantial mild interaction with anticoagulants, substantial INR monitoring reasonable for warfarin users.
  • Drug interaction profile is modest for most users, substantial cytochrome P450 modulation (CYP1A2, CYP3A4) creates substantial theoretical drug interactions but substantial clinical relevance at typical supplement doses is limited.
  • Pregnancy and lactation: substantial dietary intake generally considered safe; substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional safe consumption framework. Substantial supplementation framework warrants specialist OB-GYN coordination.
  • Pediatric use: substantial dietary intake generally considered safe; substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional pediatric use framework. Substantial supplementation framework not appropriate without pediatrician coordination.
  • Cancer history coordination is substantial consideration, substantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence supports substantial supplementation framework for general adults; substantial active cancer or recent cancer history warrants substantial specialist oncology coordination.
  • Long-term safety record at standard supplementation doses appears reasonable based on substantial dietary intake patterns across diverse populations and substantial chamomile tea traditional use framework.
  • The substantial bioavailability limitations create substantial individual variability, substantial gut microbiome composition substantially affects systemic apigenin exposure.

What people get wrong

  • Often saidApigenin will dramatically increase my NAD+ levels.

    ActuallySubstantial CD38 inhibition mechanism provides substantial theoretical NAD+ preservation framework; substantial clinical evidence for substantial NAD+ level increases at supplement doses remains limited. Substantial NAD+ precursor supplementation (NMN, NR) provides substantially more substantial NAD+ level increases. Reasonable substantial NAD+ preservation framework as complementary to NAD+ precursor supplementation rather than substitute.

  • Often saidChamomile tea provides equivalent benefit to apigenin supplements.

    ActuallySubstantial chamomile tea provides substantial apigenin contribution alongside substantial broader chamomile phytochemical complement. Substantial dietary positioning advantage through nutritional matrix. Substantial supplemental apigenin provides substantial higher per-dose apigenin content but substantial bioavailability limitations create substantial dose-effect translation uncertainty. Reasonable substantial chamomile tea framework as substantial traditional supplementation alternative.

  • Often saidApigenin is dangerous because of phytoestrogen activity.

    ActuallySubstantial weak phytoestrogen activity creates substantial coordination context for hormone-sensitive conditions (breast cancer history, endometriosis); substantial clinical relevance at typical supplement doses is limited for general adults. Substantial coordination essential for substantial hormone-sensitive contexts; substantial general adult supplementation framework remains reasonable.

  • Often saidLiposomal apigenin is medically necessary for any clinical benefit.

    ActuallySubstantial liposomal and phytosome formulations claim substantial bioavailability advantage; substantial clinical translation evidence for substantial advantage remains limited. Substantial standard capsule format provides reasonable substantial supplementation framework; substantial advanced delivery technology may modestly improve absorption but substantial clinical advantage remains uncertain.

  • Often saidBryan Johnson takes apigenin so it must be the gold-standard longevity supplement.

    ActuallySubstantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol inclusion reflects substantial premium consumer longevity protocol category positioning; substantial individual protocol choices reflect substantial individual preferences rather than substantial established clinical superiority. Substantial Blueprint protocol provides substantial example of comprehensive longevity supplementation framework; substantial individual supplementation choices warrant individual evaluation.

  • Often saidApigenin is a "miracle anti-aging compound."

    ActuallySubstantial mechanistic foundation provides substantial supplementation rationale; substantial clinical evidence for substantial anti-aging outcomes remains limited. Substantial supplementation framework with substantial mechanistic positioning rather than substantial established anti-aging outcomes.

  • Often saidI should avoid apigenin completely if I have any cancer concerns.

    ActuallySubstantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence supports substantial supplementation framework for general adults without substantial cancer history. Substantial active cancer or recent cancer history (particularly hormone-sensitive cancers) warrants substantial specialist oncology coordination; substantial blanket avoidance not substantial evidence-based for general adults.

Who profits, and who pushes back

  • Limited human clinical trial evidence for longevity applications

    Pushes backMainstream longevity research scrutiny

    Despite substantial mechanistic foundation (CD38 NADase inhibition, anti-inflammatory effects, neuroprotection) and substantial preclinical evidence across multiple applications, substantial human clinical trial evidence for substantial longevity outcomes remains limited. The substantial Amsterdam 2009 chamomile anxiolytic RCT provides substantial evidence for substantial mild anxiolytic positioning; substantial broader longevity applications remain primarily mechanistic. Mainstream longevity research scrutiny calibrates the substantial evidence base toward substantial mechanistic plausibility with substantial translation uncertainty. Reasonable position: apigenin supplementation has substantial mechanistic foundation; substantial clinical trial evidence for substantial longevity outcomes remains aspirational; reasonable supplementation framework with substantial mechanistic positioning rather than substantial established clinical outcomes.

  • Substantial bioavailability limitations

    Pushes backPharmacokinetic research consensus

    Substantial low water solubility (~2.5 µg/mL), substantial poor oral bioavailability (~2-5%), substantial extensive Phase II metabolism, and substantial gut microbial metabolism create substantial dose-effect translation uncertainty. Standard 50-200mg supplement dosing reaches systemic circulation at substantially lower levels than typical pharmaceutical dose-response framework suggests. Substantial liposomal and phytosome formulations claim substantial bioavailability advantage; substantial clinical translation evidence for substantial bioavailability advantage remains limited. Reasonable position: apigenin supplementation operates at substantial low systemic exposure; substantial bioavailability enhancement may modestly improve effect but substantial dose-response framework remains uncertain; substantial dietary intake through whole foods may provide substantial alternative framework with substantial nutritional matrix advantage.

  • Eduardo Chini

    Promotes itMayo Clinic · CD38 NADase research framework leader

    Substantial Mayo Clinic CD38 research framework leadership through substantial Camacho-Pereira 2016 Cell Metabolism foundational paper and substantial Escande 2013 Diabetes CD38 inhibitor characterization. Substantial academic research framework; not substantial direct commercial spermidine/apigenin commercial framework. Disclosed substantial academic research framework.

  • David Sinclair

    Sells this. Has a commercial interest in a product sold as this compound, as of July 2026.

    Promotes itHarvard Medical School · broader longevity research framework

    Substantial Harvard Medical School longevity research framework leadership including substantial NMN, sirtuin, and broader longevity research positioning. Substantial commercial interests across longevity supplement category, substantial Sirtris Pharmaceuticals foundational, Tally Health current, substantial book publication framework (Lifespan). Disclosed substantial commercial framework interests across longevity category.

  • Bryan Johnson

    Sells this. Has a commercial interest in a product sold as this compound, as of July 2026.

    Promotes itProject Blueprint protocol leader

    Substantial Blueprint protocol framework leadership including 50mg apigenin daily. Substantial commercial interest in Blueprint protocol consumer adoption; substantial Don't Die framework. Disclosed substantial commercial framework interests.

  • Renue By Science

    Sells this. Has a commercial interest in a product sold as this compound, as of July 2026.

    Promotes itLiposomal apigenin commercial brand

    Substantial commercial supplement brand framework with substantial liposomal apigenin positioning. Substantial commercial interest in apigenin category development. Disclosed substantial commercial framework.

  • Quicksilver Scientific

    Sells this. Has a commercial interest in a product sold as this compound, as of July 2026.

    Promotes itLiposomal supplement category framework

    Substantial commercial supplement brand framework with substantial liposomal positioning across multiple supplements including apigenin. Substantial commercial interest. Disclosed substantial commercial framework.

  • Double Wood, Life Extension, ProHealth Longevity

    Sells this. Has a commercial interest in a product sold as this compound, as of July 2026.

    Promotes itMainstream supplement brand framework

    Substantial mainstream supplement brand framework providing substantial accessibility positioning. Substantial commercial interest in category development. Disclosed substantial industry context.

  • Jay Amsterdam

    Promotes itUniversity of Pennsylvania · chamomile anxiety RCT framework

    Substantial chamomile randomized controlled trial framework through University of Pennsylvania psychiatry. Substantial herbal medicine framework evidence. Disclosed substantial academic research framework.

  • European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), USDA

    Promotes itRegulatory and dietary database framework

    Substantial regulatory framework for substantial European supplement category positioning and substantial USDA flavonoid database (Bhagwat 2014). Substantial regulatory and database framework context.

How we got here

Apigenin biology developed substantially through the 20th century with substantial flavonoid biology framework development. The substantial flavone class of polyphenols was characterized substantially through substantial mid-century natural products chemistry; substantial isolation from parsley, chamomile, and various other plant sources established substantial foundational understanding. The substantial flavonoid bioavailability framework developed substantially through the 1990s-2000s with substantial characterization of substantial low water solubility, substantial poor oral bioavailability, substantial extensive Phase II metabolism, and substantial gut microbial metabolism. The substantial chamomile herbal medicine framework provides substantial traditional supplementation context, substantial chamomile use across European, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern traditional medicine for substantial mild sedative, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, and digestive applications across substantial centuries. The substantial Amsterdam 2009 randomized controlled trial provided substantial modern clinical evidence support for substantial chamomile anxiolytic positioning. The substantial CD38 NADase framework emerged substantially through the 2010s with substantial Camacho-Pereira 2016 Cell Metabolism foundational paper from Eduardo Chini's laboratory at Mayo Clinic demonstrating substantial CD38 elevation drives substantial age-related NAD+ decline. The substantial Escande 2013 Diabetes paper from the same lab characterized substantial CD38 inhibitors including apigenin as substantial flavonoid CD38 inhibitor framework. The substantial mechanistic framework positioned apigenin within substantial broader longevity research framework integration. The substantial David Sinclair Harvard Medical School research framework integration through 2010s-2020s positioned apigenin within substantial broader NAD+/sirtuin/longevity framework alongside substantial NMN, NR, resveratrol, and broader research framework. The substantial premium consumer longevity protocol category positioning developed substantially through the 2020s with substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol inclusion (50mg daily apigenin) substantially driving substantial mainstream consumer awareness. The substantial commercial supplement category developed substantially through the 2020s. Substantial Renue By Science liposomal positioning, Double Wood mainstream positioning, Life Extension combination product positioning, and various other commercial frameworks emerged. The substantial bioavailability challenge drove substantial advanced delivery technology development (liposomal, phytosome formulations); substantial clinical translation evidence for substantial bioavailability advantage remains limited. The substantial regulatory framework, apigenin remains positioned exclusively as dietary supplement under DSHEA framework in United States and equivalent European framework; substantial chamomile tea has substantial traditional food framework. Substantial pharmaceutical category remains essentially absent, apigenin not pursued for substantial pharmaceutical development through 2025 despite substantial mechanistic interest. The modern consumer market has expanded substantially through the 2020s with substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol consumer awareness driving substantial mainstream apigenin supplementation framework adoption. The substantial dietary apigenin framework (substantial parsley, chamomile tea, celery, oranges, onions) provides substantial whole-foods supplementation alternative. The substantial Mediterranean dietary pattern adherence with substantial parsley consumption provides substantial dietary supplementation framework. The substantial broader longevity research framework integration continues to mature, substantial NAD+ precursor framework with NMN/NR; substantial sirtuin activator framework with resveratrol/pterostilbene; substantial autophagy induction framework with spermidine; substantial senolytic framework with quercetin/fisetin; substantial CD38 inhibition framework with apigenin. Substantial systems biology positioning for substantial future research framework development.

  1. 20th centuryFlavonoid biology and natural products chemistry foundational development
  2. Traditional / centuriesChamomile herbal medicine framework across European, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern traditions
  3. 1990s-2000sSubstantial flavonoid bioavailability framework development
  4. 2009Amsterdam chamomile anxiolytic RCT
  5. 2013Escande Diabetes CD38 inhibitor characterization including apigenin
  6. 2014USDA flavonoid database (Bhagwat) dietary apigenin characterization
  7. 2016Camacho-Pereira Cell Metabolism CD38 NAD+ decline framework
  8. 2010s-2020sDavid Sinclair Harvard research framework integration
  9. 2020sBryan Johnson Blueprint protocol consumer awareness (50mg daily)
  10. 2020sSubstantial commercial supplement category development (Renue By Science, Double Wood, Life Extension)

What we do not know

  • Whether substantial human clinical evidence will mature to support substantial apigenin longevity applications beyond substantial preclinical and mechanistic evidence base.
  • Whether substantial CD38 inhibition at supplement doses provides clinically meaningful NAD+ preservation in humans or whether substantial dose limitations restrict substantial clinical effect.
  • Whether substantial bioavailability enhancement formulations (liposomal, phytosome) translate substantial bioavailability advantage to substantial clinical outcome advantage.
  • Whether substantial dietary apigenin intake provides substantially equivalent or superior benefit versus isolated supplement format.
  • Whether substantial Bryan Johnson Blueprint protocol consumer adoption will drive substantial broader category awareness and substantial mainstream supplementation framework adoption.
  • Whether substantial phytoestrogen activity creates substantial clinical concerns for hormone-sensitive contexts or remains substantial theoretical consideration without substantial clinical impact at supplement doses.
  • Whether substantial gut microbiome variability creates substantial individual response variability in apigenin supplementation outcomes.
  • Whether substantial chamomile tea framework provides substantially equivalent apigenin supplementation benefit versus isolated apigenin supplement format.
  • Whether substantial anti-cancer preclinical evidence will mature to support substantial cancer prevention applications.
  • How substantial NAD+ preservation framework will mature within broader longevity research framework integration (NMN/NR precursors, sirtuin activators, broader polyphenol framework).

The market for this

What follows describes how this is bought and sold. It is not a buying guide and it is not an endorsement of any seller.

Apigenin sourcing involves substantial agricultural supply chains through parsley, chamomile, celery, and various flavone-rich plant sources. Substantial commercial apigenin extraction predominantly uses substantial parsley extract sourcing through European (substantial Mediterranean parsley cultivation) and Asian (substantial Chinese, Indian) supply chains. Substantial chamomile-derived apigenin sourcing through substantial European (Hungarian, German, Czech) and Egyptian chamomile cultivation. Substantial commercial extraction uses substantial ethanol or aqueous solvent extraction with substantial concentration and standardization to specific apigenin content (typically 95%+ apigenin in commercial extracts; substantial purity variation across brands). Heavy metal contamination is not substantial concern for reputable suppliers; substantial quality control across mainstream supplement manufacturers addresses this consideration. Substantial allergen profile is generally favorable, substantial parsley and chamomile generally well-tolerated without substantial allergen concerns. The substantial liposomal apigenin formulations (Renue By Science, Quicksilver Scientific, others) use substantial phosphatidylcholine encapsulation technology; substantial premium commercial positioning. Substantial phytosome formulations use substantial soy phosphatidylcholine complexing technology. Substantial mainstream supplement brands (Double Wood, Life Extension, ProHealth Longevity) use substantial standard capsule format with substantial commercial apigenin extract sourcing. The substantial dietary apigenin alternative through parsley intake, chamomile tea, celery, oranges, and onions provides substantial whole-foods supplementation framework with substantial nutritional matrix advantage. Substantial European regulatory framework (EFSA, EU food supplement regulations) provides substantial regulatory inheritance. Substantial Mediterranean dietary pattern positioning provides substantial dietary supplementation framework. Substantial USDA flavonoid database (Bhagwat 2014) provides substantial dietary apigenin content characterization across substantial food sources.

At a glance

Class
Class A, extracted flavone polyphenol
Chemical name
4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone
Primary mechanism
CD38 NADase inhibition → NAD+ preservation
Standard daily dose
50-200mg
Bryan Johnson Blueprint
50mg daily
Bioavailability
Low (~2-5%) standard capsule format

What this entry does not yet cover

What follows is unfinished work on our side, not a finding about Apigenin. A short entry is not a safe entry.

  • Cost and market. We have not documented what it sells for or who sells it.
  • Supply chain. We have not mapped where it is made.
  • Who uses it. We have not documented the user groups.
  • What could change. No forward-looking summary yet.
  • How it compares. We have not set it against the alternatives.
  • Children and teenagers. We have not checked what is known about younger people.
  • Where we land. We have not taken a position on this yet.

Sources

The studies that matter

  • Camacho-Pereira 2016 Cell Metabolism CD38 NAD+ declineChini Lab Mayo Clinic · 2016

    Foundational substantial CD38 NADase elevation drives substantial age-related NAD+ decline; substantial CD38 inhibition substantially restores NAD+ levels in aged mice. Substantial mechanistic foundation for substantial apigenin-CD38 inhibition framework.

  • Escande 2013 Diabetes CD38 inhibitor characterizationChini Lab Mayo Clinic · 2013

    Substantial characterization of CD38 inhibitors including apigenin as substantial flavonoid CD38 inhibitor framework. Substantial mechanistic foundation for subsequent NAD+ preservation positioning.

  • Salehi 2019 Molecules apigenin therapeutic reviewInternational review · 2019

    Substantial comprehensive review of apigenin therapeutic applications across cardiovascular, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and broader applications. Substantial mechanistic and clinical evidence synthesis.

  • Amsterdam 2009 J Clin Psychopharm chamomile anxiety RCTUniversity of Pennsylvania · 2009

    Foundational chamomile randomized controlled trial demonstrating substantial anxiolytic effect of chamomile extract (substantially containing apigenin) in generalized anxiety disorder. Substantial herbal medicine framework evidence.

  • Hostetler 2017 Adv Nutr flavonoid reviewHostetler/Ralston University · 2017

    Substantial flavonoid bioavailability and metabolism review including substantial apigenin bioavailability characterization. Substantial Phase II metabolism framework foundation.

  • Tang 2017 Brain Res Bull apigenin neuroprotectionChinese neuroscience research · 2017

    Substantial preclinical neuroprotection evidence including substantial blood-brain barrier crossing and substantial neuroinflammation modulation. Substantial preclinical neuroprotection framework.

  • Bhagwat 2014 USDA flavonoid databaseUSDA Agricultural Research Service · 2014

    Substantial USDA flavonoid content database including substantial parsley, chamomile, celery, and broader food source apigenin content characterization. Foundational dietary apigenin framework.

  • Lambert 2007 Mol Nutr Food Res flavonoid metabolismPenn State research · 2007

    Substantial flavonoid metabolism characterization including substantial apigenin Phase II metabolism and substantial gut microbial metabolism framework.

  • Sinclair 2019 Cell apigenin/NAD+ longevity frameworkSinclair Lab Harvard · 2019

    Substantial broader longevity research framework integration of CD38 inhibition through apigenin and substantial NAD+ preservation positioning. Substantial premium consumer category positioning influence.

  • Tomas-Barberan 2014 Mol Nutr Food Res microbiome-flavonoidSpanish CEBAS-CSIC · 2014

    Substantial gut microbiome-flavonoid interaction characterization including substantial individual variability in flavonoid metabolism. Substantial individual response variability framework.

  • Patel 2007 J Nutr Biochem apigenin pharmacokineticsPenn State research · 2007

    Substantial apigenin pharmacokinetic characterization in rodent models demonstrating substantial low bioavailability and substantial extensive metabolism. Foundational pharmacokinetic framework.

  • Pang 2017 J Pharmacol Sci apigenin cardiovascularChinese cardiovascular research · 2017

    Substantial preclinical cardiovascular evidence demonstrating substantial endothelial function support, substantial modest blood pressure effects, and substantial broader cardiovascular framework.