Apigenin
Chamomile flavonoid that binds GABA receptors to promote sleep and relaxation — the active compound behind chamomile's calming effects.
Apigenin is a flavonoid found in chamomile, parsley, and other plants. It binds to GABA receptors and has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and sleep-promoting effects. While direct human studies are limited, its mechanism is well-understood and it's a key reason chamomile has been used for sleep for centuries.
Binds to GABA receptors for calming effects
May preserve NAD+ levels (longevity pathway)
Reduces inflammatory markers
How Apigenin works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
50mg before bed
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Apigenin extract capsules | Recommended |
| 💊Chamomile extract (standardized) | Alternative |
| 🍵Chamomile tea (lower dose) | Alternative |
Pure apigenin provides consistent dosing. Chamomile extract should be standardized to apigenin content. Chamomile tea provides variable, lower doses (~3-10mg per cup).
Minimum: 1 weeks
Optimal: 4 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Take before bed for sleep. Can be combined with other sleep supplements like magnesium and L-theanine.
Calm, relaxed feeling without heavy sedation
Helps transition to sleep more easily
Effects are gentle; not a strong sedative
Chamomile tea is common during pregnancy; concentrated supplements less studied
May cross-react; avoid or use caution
May have additive sedative effects
Chamomile family may have mild anticoagulant effects — may affect platelet aggregation or vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, altering anticoagulant efficacy
Tip: Take only before bed
Tip: Avoid if allergic to ragweed/chamomile
Top studies from 36+ peer-reviewed papers
Liang H et al. • Renal failure (2025)
“Through rigorous experimental validation, our study demonstrates AS's significant clinical efficacy in managing DN.”
Aktaş E et al. • CNS neuroscience & therapeutics (2025)
“Although levodopa is indispensable for the symptomatic management of PD, emerging evidence supports the integration of plant-derived bioactive compounds as adjunct therapies with disease-modifying potential.”
Chang H et al. • Nutrients (2018)
“Conclusions: The present study suggested that high intake of flavonols (such as quercetin) may reduce the risk of colon cancer, and high intake of flavones (such as apigenin) may reduce the risk of rectal cancer.”
Wang L et al. • The American journal of clinical nutrition (2009)
“Our results do not support a major role of 5 common flavonols and flavones or selected flavonoid-rich foods in cancer prevention.”
Faysal M et al. • Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology (2025)
“The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.”
What would you like to do next?
Ashwagandha
7.5/10Reduces cortisol and anxiety while improving sleep quality and physical recovery in stressed adults.
Curcumin
9/10Turmeric's active compound that modulates NF-kB inflammatory pathways — supports mood, joint health, and post-exercise recovery.
Lemon Balm
8.5/10Mint-family herb that modulates GABA for mild anxiety relief and sleep support — well-suited for daily use without sedation.
Schisandra
8.5/10Five-flavor adaptogenic berry with rare hepatoprotective properties — supports liver detoxification, mental clarity, and physical endurance.
Tap node to isolate • Pinch to zoom • Tap edge for research