Apigenin

Also known as: chamomile extract, apigenin, 4',5,7-Trihydroxyflavone

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceflavonoidsleep
50–100 mg30-60 min before bed. Take with small amount of fat (lipid-soluble).

Apigenin is a flavonoid found abundantly in chamomile, parsley, and celery that acts as a natural CD38 inhibitor, helping to preserve NAD+ levels. It also modulates GABA-A receptors, producing mild anxiolytic and sleep-promoting effects without significant sedation. Apigenin has gained popularity in the longevity community for its NAD+-sparing mechanism, and animal studies show anti-cancer and neuroprotective properties.

TL;DR: Flavonoid from chamomile. Binds GABA-A receptor for mild sedation and anxiety relief. Also inhibits CD38 (NAD+ preservation).

🌙Sleep🧘Stress & Anxiety
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

2

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

Benzodiazepines / sleep medicationsModerate

Potential additive CNS depression; avoid combining

Blood thinnersLow

Weak antiplatelet; caution with warfarin

CYP1A2 substratesLow

Apigenin inhibits CYP1A2; may increase caffeine and estrogen levels

Important Notes

  • May inhibit CD38 (preserves NAD+ levels)
  • Cross-reactivity with ragweed/daisy family allergies
  • Avoid in hormone-sensitive cancers (weak phytoestrogen)

Clinical Evidence (2 studies)

Chamomile extract improved sleep quality in elderly

Hieu TH et al. (2019) — Phytother Res

Apigenin-standardized chamomile improved sleep quality in elderly RCT

View on PubMed

Chamomile RCT for generalized anxiety disorder

Amsterdam JD et al. (2009) — J Clin Psychopharmacol

Significant anxiolytic effect

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Apigenin.

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

🌙 Sleep🧘 Stress & Anxiety

GABA

Grade B

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter. PharmaGABA form shows RCT evidence for relaxation and sleep. May work via gut-brain axis.

🌙 Sleep🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Valerian Root

Grade B

Traditional sleep herb with moderate RCT support. Comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines. Not acutely sedating — builds over weeks.

🌙 Sleep🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Related Supplements

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

GABA

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter. PharmaGABA form shows RCT evidence for relaxation and sleep. May work via gut-brain axis.

Valerian Root

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Traditional sleep herb with moderate RCT support. Comparable to low-dose benzodiazepines. Not acutely sedating — builds over weeks.

Passionflower

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Gentle anxiolytic herb comparable to low-dose oxazepam. Effective for pre-surgical anxiety and sleep without next-day impairment.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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