FlavonoidsApigenin

Chrysin exhibits anxiolytic effects in rats via activation of GABA(A) receptors, while apigenin does not show anxiolytic activity

In rats, chrysin at 1 mg/kg produced a clear anxiolytic effect that was blocked by the benzodiazepine antagonist Flumazenil, indicating GABA(A) receptor involvement. Apigenin failed to show anxiolytic effects at the same dose. Both flavonoids reduced locomotor activity at 25 mg/kg, but this sedative effect was not mediated by GABA-benzodiazepine receptors.

Last updated: Jul 8, 2026•0 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score24/100
Human RCT☆☆☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. Behavioral characterisation of the flavonoids apigenin and chrysin.

observational

Zanoli P, Avallone R, Baraldi M · Fitoterapia (2003)

Participants: N/A
Duration: Acute administration (single dose)
Intervention: Acute injection of chrysin (1 mg/kg) and apigenin (1 mg/kg) in rats
Outcome: Anxiolytic effect (measured via behavioral tests), locomotor activity, interaction with Flumazenil
Effect Size: N/A
Population: Rats (laboratory animals)

Result:

PubMed: 10930722DOI: 10.1016/s0367-326x(00)00186-6

Mechanism Graph

Chrysin binds to GABA(A) receptor complex
↓
Activates GABA(A) receptor unit
↓
Produces anxiolytic behavioral response
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Effect blocked by Flumazenil, confirming GABA(A) involvement

Limitations

  • ⚠Animal study (rats), not directly generalizable to humans
  • ⚠Only acute administration tested; chronic effects unknown
  • ⚠No specific behavioral test named for anxiety assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

Does chrysin have anxiolytic effects in humans?▼

This study was conducted in rats, so human effects are not confirmed and require clinical trials.

What dose of chrysin was effective for anxiety in this study?▼

Chrysin at 1 mg/kg showed anxiolytic effects in rats.

How does chrysin produce its anxiolytic effect?▼

Chrysin appears to activate the GABA(A) receptor unit, as its effect was blocked by the benzodiazepine antagonist Flumazenil.

Does apigenin have any anxiolytic effects?▼

No, apigenin failed to show anxiolytic activity at the tested dose in this study.

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References

  1. 1.Zanoli P, Avallone R, Baraldi M. "Behavioral characterisation of the flavonoids apigenin and chrysin.." Fitoterapia, 2003. PMID: 10930722 DOI: 10.1016/s0367-326x(00)00186-6
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.