Flavonoid from chamomile, parsley and celery; supplement for sleep and «anti-ageing»; not registered as a drug by AEMPS or EMA; EFSA has not approved related health claims
Brand names: Double Wood Apigenin, Nootropics Depot Apigenin, Pure Encapsulations Apigenin
Updated · Methodology
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
Not recommended
Apigenin is a plant flavonoid found in chamomile, parsley, and celery, promoted as a supplement for anti-aging and longevity. Studies in people have not shown a convincing benefit for this use – there is no evidence base to support it. What actually helps healthy aging is straightforward: sleep, regular physical activity, a diet with vegetables and enough protein, not smoking, and protecting skin from the sun.
Not recommended
Apigenin is a plant flavonoid found in chamomile and some other plants, promoted as a gentle sleep aid. Studies have not shown convincing benefit for insomnia or sleep problems – there is no solid evidence for this use. For trouble sleeping, sleep hygiene and cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia work better, and any medication is worth discussing with a doctor.
ICD-10: G47.0 · ICD-11: 7A00
Not recommended
Apigenin is a flavonoid found in chamomile, parsley, and celery. It is sold as a calming supplement and promoted for stress and anxiety. Studies have not shown a convincing benefit for this use: the data come from lab work and small trials without reliable results in people. For anxiety and chronic stress, other approaches work, mainly psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral therapy first) and, when indicated, medication prescribed by a doctor. Do not take apigenin in place of a treatment with proven benefit, since that can delay care for a condition that needs it.
ICD-10: F41.9 · ICD-11: 6B0Z
Natural 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone present in significant amounts in chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), parsley, celery and yarrow. In vitro it binds the benzodiazepine site of GABA-A receptors as a partial allosteric modulator and shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in cell cultures. In laboratory models it inhibits CD38 and theoretically slows NAD+ degradation, which underpins anti-ageing positioning. In humans oral apigenin has low bioavailability (1–2%) and poorly characterised pharmacokinetics. Clinical trials in humans with sleep or age-related endpoints are essentially absent.
Adequate safety data for concentrated apigenin in pregnancy are lacking. AESAN considers moderate chamomile tea acceptable; concentrated apigenin supplements are not recommended in pregnancy.
Concentrated apigenin supplements in lactation are unstudied. Moderate chamomile tea is compatible. eLactancia advises caution with concentrated extracts.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
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Apigenin is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Stress and anxiety (evidence tier D), Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier D), Insomnia and sleep disorders (evidence tier D). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Apigenin (≥ 1 in 100): Drowsiness, especially with other sedatives, Dry mouth, Nausea, Allergic reactions in patients with pollen allergy. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
Adequate safety data for concentrated apigenin in pregnancy are lacking. AESAN considers moderate chamomile tea acceptable; concentrated apigenin supplements are not recommended in pregnancy.
Concentrated apigenin supplements in lactation are unstudied. Moderate chamomile tea is compatible. eLactancia advises caution with concentrated extracts.
Apigenin is contraindicated in: Pregnancy and lactation (concentrated supplement forms); Allergy to Asteraceae plants (chamomile, ragweed, chrysanthemum); Use of warfarin and other oral anticoagulants; Use of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs (additive sedation risk); Age under 18 years. Full list in the Safety section.
Aripiprazole, Bromazepam, Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla / recutita, flowers), Chlorpromazine, Clozapine, Melissa officinalis (leaf extract), Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata, aerial parts), Risperidone