Many people struggle to achieve restorative sleep. See here our blog post on Why We Sleep and why it is important. One natural compound that shows promise in supporting sleep quality is Apigenin. It is found in various plants and has calming properties that can help regulate sleep patterns. In this blog post, we’ll explore what Apigenin is, how it supports sleep, and why it could be a helpful addition to your nighttime routine.

What is Apigenin?

Apigenin is a natural bioflavonoid found in plants such as chamomile, parsley, celery, and oranges. A bioflavonoid is the compound that gives fruits and plants their vibrant colours. Apigenin is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anxiety-reducing properties. It is most well-known as the key compound that gives traditional Chamomile tea its relaxing and calming properties.

Apigenin supports sleep by interacting with receptors in the brain that regulate neural activity. It interacts with GABA, a neuromodulator that is responsible for calming the nervous system. More specifically, Apigenin binds to the GABA-A receptors to enhance the effect of GABA. This helps to reduce overactivity in the brain, promotes relaxation and prepares the body for sleep.

How Apigenin Supports Sleep

Apigenin helps to quiet the mind by reducing neural excitability. Its action on GABA-A receptors creates a calming effect, similar to that of pharmaceutical sedatives but without the addictive risks or side effects. This makes it an excellent natural option for those who experience difficulty winding down before bedtime. This is especially important if your head is still spinning after you sent out that cob deliverable. After finishing an intense workday, cortisol levels may still be elevated which makes it difficult to fall asleep (see our blog post on How Stress Impacts Sleep). Apigenin has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, helping to create a mental state more conducive to sleep. Research further suggests that Apigenin not only helps you fall asleep faster but may also enhance the overall quality of your sleep by supporting deeper and more restorative Sleep Cycles.

Sleep Problems

Although Apigenin is naturally found in certain foods, many people may not consume enough to benefit from its sleep-enhancing properties. Modern diets and stressful lifestyles often limit our intake of natural compounds like Apigenin. As a result, some individuals may experience poor sleep quality due to an overactive nervous system, elevated cortisol levels, or difficulty entering deep sleep cycles.

Where Can I Get My Apigenin?

You can increase your Apigenin intake through dietary sources or supplements. Chamomile tea, parsley, celery, oranges, artichokes, and onions are all rich in Apigenin. If you find it challenging to consume enough Apigenin through food alone, supplements are a convenient alternative. These are often more concentrated and can provide consistent dosing.

Supplementing with Apigenin

Numerous studies suggest that Apigenin supplementation can help improve sleep quality. It is especially effective for individuals with heightened stress which we assume most of you experience at least occasionally if you're reading this...

When taken in appropriate doses, Apigenin promotes relaxation, reduces sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep), and enhances overall sleep duration. Apigenin is generally considered safe with minimal side effects.

Conclusion

Unlike pharmaceutical sedatives or even melatonin, Apigenin works gently by enhancing your body’s natural sleep mechanisms. It is non-habit-forming, has fewer side effects, and supports overall relaxation without grogginess the next day. At Somio Health, we’ve included Apigenin in our SleepBites formulation to help you unwind naturally. Combined with other sleep-enhancing ingredients like Magnesium Glycinate and L-Theanine, our holistic solution promotes relaxation and supports restorative sleep.

Consider consulting with a healthcare professional if you are unsure about a new supplementation regimen to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.