According to references, research on apigenin dates back to the 19th century, when scientists first isolated the compound from celery. Its chemical name is 4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone with the molecular formula . Its biological activity originates structurally from its unique hydroxyl-substitution sites.

Apigenin has abundant natural sources. Besides celery leaves, it occurs in fruits and vegetables such as parsley, chamomile, peppermint, grapefruit, onion and orange, as well as in traditional herbal medicines including mugwort and honeysuckle. In daily diets, apigenin mostly exists as glycosides. After human metabolism, it converts into its free form to exert physiological functions.

Existing scientific studies have verified multiple biological activities of apigenin. It scavenges free radicals and alleviates oxidative stress so as to protect cells against oxidation. It modulates inflammatory signaling pathways and suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory factors, thereby producing anti-inflammatory effects. Meanwhile, studies suggest its potential neuroprotective benefits against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. It may also support vascular health and exert favourable potential effects on hypertension and atherosclerosis. Furthermore, research potential has been observed in anti-tumour, anti-anxiety and metabolic-regulation fields, though further clinical trials are required for supporting evidence.

In terms of mechanism of action, apigenin regulates several key cellular signalling pathways. It enhances antioxidant capacity by activating the Nrf2 pathway; it restrains inflammatory outbursts via modulating the NF-κB pathway; it participates in epigenetic regulation to alter gene-transcription levels; additionally, it acts on GABA-A receptors, which accounts for its molecular mechanism of relieving anxiety and aiding sleep.

At present, most studies on apigenin remain at cellular and animal-experiment stages, while human clinical trials are limited, although relevant investigations are expanding. Existing clinical trials have proven that chamomile extract rich in apigenin can improve sleep quality. Nevertheless, apigenin suffers from low bioavailability. The industry is exploring delivery technologies such as nanocarriers to improve its absorption efficiency.

Industry experts note that apigenin is a natural plant-derived active substance and should not be regarded as a “miracle compound”. A balanced daily diet with sufficient plant-based foods represents the major source for obtaining such phytochemicals. More high-quality human trials are still needed to clarify applicable scenarios, optimal dosages and long-term safety profiles of apigenin. These efforts will promote more scientific and rational industrial transformation and application of this natural raw material.