Apigenin accounts for about 16-68% of the flavonoid content found in chamomile flowers [1]. Depending on the plant variety, growing conditions, and extraction method, you can get up to 854 mg of pure apigenin from 100 g of chamomile, making it one of the highest sources of natural apigenin [2].
Apigenin in chamomile acts as a natural defense against environmental stressors like pests and UV radiation and contributes to the plant's ability to thrive. It's no surprise that it has benefits for human health, too.
This flavonoid is also believed to be a major contributor to chamomile tea's well-known calming effects. Research suggests that apigenin interacts with GABA-A receptors in the brain, which helps to promote relaxation and reduce feelings of nervousness and stress. This could be the scientific reason why a warm cup of chamomile tea before bed or during stressful situations seems to calm the mind.
How Much Apigenin is in Chamomile Tea
We've already established that chamomile flowers are among the highest sources of this beneficial flavonoid.
But you're not eating the bitter-sweet chamomile flowers, whole, but rather brewing it in a tea, meaning you're getting substantially much less apigenin.
Here's a rough estimate of how much apigenin you're actually getting from a cup of chamomile tea:
|
Chamomile Beverage |
Apigenin Content (mg per cup) |
|
Chamomile Tea (Loose leaf, strong brew) |
1.5-5 mg |
|
Chamomile Tea (Tea bag, standard brew) |
0.8-3 mg |
|
Chamomile Extract (Liquid concentrate) |
10-20 mg |
|
Chamomile Blend Tea (With other herbs) |
0.5-2 mg |
We also need to mention that how much apigenin you get from your tea depends on the quality of the chamomile tea (or chamomile extract), the steeping time, and the temperature.
For example, German chamomile is best known for high apigenin — of course, stronger brews and extracts contain higher amounts, making them a better choice for maximizing intake of apigenin.
Apigenin in Chamomile Extract Compared to Other Foods
Chamomile is a potent source of apigenin, but how does it compare to other foods that contain this flavonoid?
|
Food Source |
Serving Size |
Estimated Apigenin Content (mg per serving) |
|
Dried Parsley |
1 tablespoon (2g) |
90 mg |
|
Fresh Parsley |
1/2 cup (30 g) |
65 mg |
|
Chamomile (dried flowers) |
1 tablespoon (2g) |
33 mg |
|
Celery Hearts |
1 stalk (40 g) |
7.6 mg |
|
Orange |
1 medium orange (130 g) |
2-6 mg |
|
Grapefruit |
1/2 a grapefruit (120 g) |
1-4 mg |
|
Apple (with skin) |
1 medium apple (180 g) |
1-4 mg |
|
Chamomile Tea (Loose leaf, strong brew) |
1 cup (240 ml) |
1.5- 5 mg |
|
Chamomile Tea (standard tea bag) |
1 cup (240ml) |
0.8 - 3 mg |
|
Chamomile Extract (liquid concentrate) |
1 serving (varies) |
10 - 20 mg |
Apigenin in Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has a moderate apigenin content, but fresh and dried parsley remains the most concentrated source. Drinking chamomile tea regularly can still contribute to overall apigenin intake.
If you're looking for an easier way to get higher doses of apigenin daily, you can look at apigenin supplements like the one at Neurogan Health, which have 100 mg of pure apigenin derived from chamomile flowers in each vegan-friendly capsule, making it easier to reach targeted wellness goals in one daily dose.
Resources:
-
Sathya, S., & Devi, K. P. (2018). The use of polyphenols for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. In Role of the mediterranean diet in the brain and neurodegenerative diseases (pp. 239-252). Academic Press.
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Examine.com. (n.d.). Apigenin. Retrieved from https://examine.com/supplements/apigenin/ (n.d.). Flavonoids. Oregon State University. Retrieved from https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/flavonoids*
