Apigenin is a flavonoid found in plants and many foods we eat. Some studies suggest it may interact with hormone-related pathways, but there's no strong evidence to show it raises or lowers estrogen or testosterone levels.
People often take apigenin capsules for relaxation and antioxidant support. If you have a hormone-related condition or take medication that affects hormones, check in with your healthcare professional first.
How can Apigenin Increase Testosterone?
Some laboratory studies suggest that the flavonoid apigenin may influence testosterone levels by interacting with enzymes involved in hormone metabolism [1]. However, there's not enough clinical research done on humans to make a strong case for its use for directly increasing testosterone levels.
Keep in mind that most of this research is done on animals. Still, they've found that apigenin can boost testosterone production and potentially delay the decline of testosterone due to aging.
Another interesting link is that obesity is becoming more common in men and can make it harder for them to have children by lowering testosterone levels. Scientists wanted to see if apigenin could help fix this problem.
They fed mice a high-fat diet to make them obese and then gave them apigenin. The mice that received apigenin had less weight gain, healthier testicles, and better testosterone levels [2].
Another relevant study looked at flavonoids, apigenin, luteolin, and chrysin to see if they help the body make more testosterone — which is key for maintaining male health.
They found that apigenin may help specific cells in the testicles (Leydig cells) make more testosterone by reducing the stress inside cells [3]. However, in some tests, it also lowered testosterone production in human cells, so scientists need more research to understand its full effects.
Apigenin Dosage: How Much To Take
There's no official daily recommendation for apigenin intake, and research on its optimal dosage for hormonal health is still ongoing. However, most apigenin supplements are around 50-100 mg daily, commonly used in studies examining its potential effects on relaxation and cellular support.
Apigenin is also found naturally in foods like chamomile tea, parsley, and celery, and consuming these regularly can contribute to overall flavonoid intake.
Please consult with your healthcare professional before going to apigenin for hormonal support. Otherwise, the most common use of apigenin supplements is for sleep and relaxation.
The best time to take apigenin for sleep is about 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Make it part of your wind-down routine by dimming overhead lights, minimizing screen time, and brewing a warm, non-caffeinated, non-sugar beverage to prepare your mind and body for rest.
Does Apigenin Inhibit DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone derived from testosterone that affects hair growth and prostate health. Some studies suggest that apigenin may influence enzymes involved in hormone metabolism, but there is no strong evidence that it directly inhibits DHT production [2].
Apigenin might help regulate specific pathways related to androgen activity, but its effect on DHT levels is uncertain. We don’t know if it lowers or blocks DHT in people, so more research is needed to be sure.
Apigenin for Healthy Testosterone Levels
There isn't a strong enough link in humans that correlates apigenin with a boost in testosterone production. However, apigenin benefits for sleep quality and antioxidant support might contribute to overall hormonal balance. Healthy testosterone levels depend on multiple factors, including proper rest, reduced oxidative stress, and overall well-being.
Eating foods rich in apigenin, such as chamomile tea, parsley, and celery, can provide natural intake. Many apigenin supplements provide 50-100 mg per capsule, a common range used in studies for relaxation and antioxidant benefits. Since apigenin supports relaxation, many people take it in the evening to aid sleep and recovery, which are crucial for maintaining healthy hormone levels.
Apigenin is not a direct testosterone booster but may support overall hormonal balance by helping with sleep and reducing oxidative stress.
Resources:
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Le Bail JC, et al. Aromatase and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibition by flavonoids Cancer Lett (1998 Nov 13)
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Wu, L., Qu, J., Mou, L., & Liu, C. (2024). Apigenin improves testosterone synthesis by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 177, 117075.
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Martin, L. J., & Touaibia, M. (2020). Improvement of testicular steroidogenesis using flavonoids and isoflavonoids for prevention of late-onset male hypogonadism. Antioxidants, 9(3), 237.
