Apigenin
The light-yellow plant pigment apigenin is very abundant in nature. It is found, for example, in chamomile, parsley, celery, yarrow, dahlias and kumquats. Chemically, it belongs to the group of flavonoids. The substance is said to have a wide range of medicinal uses and is also of great interest in cosmetics.
The medicinal use of apigenin
Although apigenin has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in some laboratory tests, there are no reliable studies outside of the test tube. That is why the substance has not yet been approved for the treatment of cancer. Nevertheless, one of the potential health benefits is a reduction in the risk of cancer, especially since previous observations are encouraging. Epidemiological studies have shown that in population groups in which a diet rich in flavonoids is more or less the norm, the risk of cancer is actually lower.
Apigenin is also said to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, help with migraines and alleviate feelings of anxiety. Since apigenin interacts with the benzodiazepine receptor in the brain, its calming and anxiolytic effects have already been demonstrated in animal studies. However, clinical studies on the effects in humans are still lacking.
The prevention of obesity and neurodegenerative diseases and the lowering of cholesterol levels are also attributed to the substance, which is usually available as a powder. But let us now turn to the cosmetic properties and advantages.
Apigenin in cosmetics
In the summer of 2016, an interesting study was published in an issue of Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology. Rodents showing signs of sepsis demonstrated a reduction in inflammation after pre-treatment with apigenin. In addition, the parameters for oxidative stress had normalised. The scientists also observed an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10.
The same antioxidant potential is said to apply to humans. This helps to maintain the elasticity and density of the skin, and is thus also able to reduce fine wrinkles. It has also been found to effectively protect skin cells from UVA radiation. It is not without reason that chamomile extract has been used successfully for skin and hair care for a very long time. After all, chamomile contains a high proportion of apigenin.
Another study shows what the substance does for the skin in particular: female volunteers applied a cream containing apigenin twice a day over a period of eight weeks. The skin subsequently showed improved firmness, a reduction in wrinkles and better skin hydration.
Inflammation and stress often play a major role in scalp problems. The soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, as well as the reduction of free radicals, can also lead to positive results here. In addition, there are indications that the substance can help to stimulate the elongation of hair follicles. Of course, chamomile also contains other valuable ingredients, and a lot of apigenin research still needs to be done in the near future. Nevertheless, the studies and experiences to date are very promising, and for many researchers, apigenin is already considered to be an extremely potent antioxidant that is extremely beneficial for both the skin and the hair or scalp.
Profile
INCI: Apigenin
Alternative names: 5,7-Dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-chromen-4-on, 4′,5,7-Trihydroxyflavon
Description: a light yellow and naturally occurring plant pigment
Extraction: from plants such as chamomile, parsley, celery, etc.
CAS number: 520-36-5
Molecular formula: C15H10O5
Melting point: 352 degrees Celsius
Solubility: almost insoluble in water, but moderately soluble in hot ethanol
Effects: potentially anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, soothing
Possible uses: for skin and hair care
Apigenin: an active ingredient with great potential
Although further research is still being conducted, the plant pigment apigenin is already considered an interesting cosmetic active ingredient with great potential, especially as an antioxidant and in the anti-aging field. It is not only suitable for skin care but also for hair care. If you have any questions or are interested in innovative formulations, Cosmacon will be happy to help!