Naturally Occurring Luteolin
Also known as: Naturally occurring luteolin, 3′,4′,5,7-tetrahydroxyflavone, C15H10O6, Luteolin
Overview
Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid, a subclass of polyphenolic compounds, widely distributed in various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs such as celery, green peppers, and chamomile. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement due to its purported anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and analgesic properties. While extensive preclinical studies support its potential benefits, clinical evidence remains limited and somewhat preliminary. Luteolin is often studied in combination with other flavonoids or as part of broader polyphenol supplementation. The quality of evidence varies, with stronger data from preclinical models and emerging moderate-quality clinical trials, particularly in contexts like olfactory recovery and neuroinflammation. It is generally considered safe at typical supplement doses.
Benefits
Luteolin offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in combination with other compounds. A meta-analysis demonstrated that luteolin combined with palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and olfactory training significantly improved olfactory function in patients, showing a strong effect with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.07 (95% CI: 2.22–3.92, p < 0.00001). Clinical data, though limited, suggest luteolin reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), correlating with behavioral improvements. Preclinical studies also indicate antioxidant and analgesic effects, suggesting potential benefits in chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain conditions. While luteolin-specific data are limited, it may contribute to improved muscle function and physical performance as part of broader flavonoid supplementation. Populations that may benefit most include patients with olfactory dysfunction (e.g., post-viral) and children with ASD. Benefits typically manifest within weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Luteolin exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, thereby reducing systemic inflammation. As a potent antioxidant, luteolin scavenges reactive oxygen species, protecting cells from oxidative damage. Its neuroprotective effects are thought to involve the modulation of microglial activation and support of neuronal survival pathways. At a molecular level, luteolin interacts with inflammatory signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, and modulates oxidative stress mediators. While its bioavailability is moderate, absorption can be influenced by formulation and co-administration with other flavonoids or lipids.
Side effects
Luteolin is generally considered safe, with no major adverse effects reported in clinical studies at typical supplement doses. Common side effects are rare and not well-documented, and no significant safety concerns have emerged from clinical trials involving either children or adults. There are no firmly established significant drug interactions or contraindications. However, caution is advised when luteolin is combined with other anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory agents due to the potential for additive effects. Specific populations, such as children with autism spectrum disorder, have shown good tolerability to luteolin-containing supplements in clinical studies, indicating a favorable safety profile even in sensitive groups. Comprehensive safety warnings are not extensive due to its generally benign nature.
Dosage
Clinical studies investigating luteolin have typically utilized doses around 100 mg per day. This dosage is often administered in combination with other flavonoids, such as quercetin and rutin, or with compounds like palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). While an optimal dosage for specific indications like olfactory recovery is not definitively established, these combination formulations appear effective. There is no clearly defined maximum safe dose for luteolin; doses used in clinical trials have been well tolerated. For observable benefits, supplementation should be consistent, typically daily, over several weeks to months. Absorption of luteolin may be enhanced when co-administered with lipids or other flavonoids, suggesting that formulation can influence its efficacy.
FAQs
Is luteolin effective alone or only in combination?
Clinical evidence often involves luteolin combined with other compounds like PEA or quercetin. While its isolated effects are less clear, studies suggest promising benefits even within combination formulations.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Improvements in conditions like olfactory function and behavioral symptoms have been observed within weeks to months of consistent luteolin supplementation, depending on the specific condition.
Is luteolin safe for children?
Studies in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have indicated good tolerability and safety for luteolin-containing supplements, suggesting it can be safely used in pediatric populations under supervision.
Does luteolin interact with medications?
No significant drug interactions have been widely reported. However, caution is advised when combining luteolin with other immunomodulatory or anti-inflammatory medications due to potential additive effects.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10452638/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis found that luteolin combined with PEA and olfactory training significantly improved olfactory function in patients with olfactory dysfunction, demonstrating a strong statistical effect despite some heterogeneity among studies.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10016360/ – This review and analysis of clinical trials, including those in children with ASD, indicated that luteolin-containing supplements reduced inflammatory cytokines and improved behavioral symptoms. It highlights promising preliminary clinical evidence, though often from studies using combination supplements.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1013449/full – This systematic review on flavonoids suggests a potential for improving muscle mass and performance. While not specific to luteolin, it provides indirect evidence for its contribution within a broader flavonoid context, noting the need for more targeted research.
Supplements Containing Naturally Occurring Luteolin
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