Apigenin is a flavonoid widely found in chamomile, parsley, and celery. It has been studied for its role as a ligand for central benzodiazepine receptors (associated with anxiolytic and mild sedative effects), as an inhibitor of the NAD+ase enzyme CD38 (leading to increased intracellular NAD+ levels), and for anti-inflammatory properties. Most human clinical evidence comes from chamomile extract studies standardized to 1.2% apigenin content.

How many studies on Apigenin are available?

NutriVouch references 227 human studies on Apigenin, all peer-reviewed and indexed on PubMed.

Is Apigenin effective for Antioxidant Protection?

For Antioxidant Protection, Apigenin has an effectiveness score of 4/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 11 relevant studies.

Is Apigenin effective for Better Sleep?

For Better Sleep, Apigenin has an effectiveness score of 3/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 8 relevant studies.

Is Apigenin effective for Stress Relief?

For Stress Relief, Apigenin has an effectiveness score of 3/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 25 relevant studies.

Is Apigenin effective for Anxiety Support?

For Anxiety Support, Apigenin has an effectiveness score of 3/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 9 relevant studies.

Is Apigenin effective for Anti-Inflammation?

For Anti-Inflammation, Apigenin has an effectiveness score of 3/10 — weak or limited clinical evidence. Based on 12 relevant studies.

Confidence level

Moderate evidence

227 studies

Apigenin

Last reviewed: 4/3/2026

Absorption

✦Apigenin has poor oral bioavailability due to low water solubility. Taking with a fat-containing meal may improve absorption. Dietary apigenin from food sources (parsley, chamomile tea) may have better stability than isolated supplements.

Daily Dose

⚖

Common dose: 50-500 mg apigenin; 220-1500 mg chamomile extract in clinical trials

RDA: No established RDA

Upper limit: No established upper limit; up to 1500 mg/day chamomile extract used in trials

Best form: Chamomile extract standardized to apigenin content

Timing: Evening for sleep support; divided doses for anxiety

Average dietary intake is 0.7-5 mg/day. Most clinical evidence uses chamomile extract rather than isolated apigenin.

Effects

🍇 Antioxidant Protection

4.011 studies›

😴 Better Sleep