Luteolin

non-nutrient/non-botanical

What is it

Luteolin is a flavone polyphenol found in many plants, especially parsley, celery, artichokes, oregano, peppers, and various herbs. It is used in supplements for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How it works

Luteolin acts through several molecular mechanisms. As an antioxidant, it scavenges reactive oxygen species and chelates metal ions. Research suggests it has notable anti-inflammatory effects, primarily by inhibiting NF-kB activation, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and inhibiting COX-2 and lipoxygenase enzymes. Luteolin has been investigated for mast cell stabilization, with preclinical evidence showing it reduces histamine release and may benefit allergic and mast cell activation conditions. It also modulates microglial activation in the brain, prompting interest in neuroinflammation and neuroprotection. Preclinical research suggests effects on cancer cell apoptosis, angiogenesis, and metastasis, though clinical evidence in humans is limited. Luteolin has poor oral bioavailability due to limited solubility and extensive first-pass metabolism. Most circulating activity comes from glucuronide and sulfate conjugates.

Evidence for 4 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Mast cell activation and allergy support

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Luteolin's mast cell-stabilizing properties have been investigated in mast cell activation syndrome and allergic conditions. Some patients report symptomatic benefit; clinical trial evidence is limited.

Inflammation

Grade C

Moderate evidence

Preclinical and limited human evidence suggests luteolin reduces inflammatory markers. Clinical effect sizes are unclear.

Neuroinflammation and cognition

Grade D

Mixed evidence

Preclinical evidence suggests luteolin reduces microglial activation and may have neuroprotective effects. Small studies in children with autism have suggested behavioral improvements; evidence is preliminary.

Cancer prevention

Grade F

Limited evidence

Strong preclinical evidence for anticancer activity, but human clinical trials are essentially absent.

3 commercial forms

Luteolin extract capsules

Poor solubility and first-pass metabolism limit absorption.

Standard supplement form. Often combined with other flavonoids.

Luteolin with quercetin

Combined flavonoid effects; absorption issues for both compounds.

Common formulation for allergy and mast cell support.

Phospholipid or liposomal luteolin

Marketed for improved absorption; clinical evidence specific to enhanced forms is limited.

Premium formulations claiming better bioavailability.

Dosage

There is no established RDA. Supplement doses typically range from 100-300 mg per day. Clinical research has used a wide range of doses, often combined with other flavonoids. Bioavailability-enhanced formulations are less common than for other flavonoids.

When and how to take it

Luteolin can be taken at any time of day. Taking with a meal containing fat may modestly improve absorption. Consistent daily use over weeks is needed to evaluate effects on inflammation or allergy symptoms. Bioavailability is limited, so split dosing throughout the day may produce more sustained blood levels.

Food sources

FoodAmount%DV
Fresh parsley (1/4 cup)Among highest dietary sources of luteolin—
Celery (1 cup)Significant luteolin content—
Artichoke (1 medium)Substantial luteolin content—
Oregano, dried (1 tsp)Concentrated luteolin—
Green peppers (1 cup)Moderate luteolin—

Safety

Luteolin is generally well tolerated at typical doses. Side effects are uncommon and include mild gastrointestinal upset, headache, or rarely skin reactions. Long-term safety at high supplemental doses is not well established.

Who should be cautious

Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding at supplemental doses is not well established. People taking anticoagulants or scheduled for surgery should consult a clinician. People taking medications metabolized by CYP enzymes should consult a clinician about possible interactions. Discontinue if allergic reactions develop.

Interactions

Luteolin may modestly inhibit certain CYP450 enzymes and could theoretically affect medications cleared by these pathways. It may have mild antiplatelet effects. Concurrent use with other anti-inflammatory or antiallergy medications could produce additive effects but is generally not problematic. Few well-documented major interactions exist.

Frequently asked questions

Does luteolin help with allergies?⌄

Luteolin has mast cell-stabilizing properties demonstrated in laboratory studies, and some patients with allergy or mast cell activation report symptomatic benefit. Robust clinical trials are limited.

How does luteolin compare to quercetin?⌄

Both are flavonoids with similar antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mast cell-stabilizing properties. They are often combined in supplements for synergistic effects.

Can luteolin help with brain fog or cognition?⌄

Preclinical research suggests luteolin may reduce neuroinflammation. Some small clinical studies (especially in autism) have shown promising results, but evidence is preliminary.

What foods are high in luteolin?⌄

Parsley, celery, artichokes, oregano, and green peppers are among the highest dietary sources. Regular consumption of these herbs and vegetables provides meaningful dietary intake.

Is luteolin safe to take long-term?⌄

Short-to-medium term use at typical doses is well tolerated. Long-term safety beyond a year has not been thoroughly studied.

References

  • PubChem: Luteolin — PubChem link
  • Wikidata: Luteolin — Wikidata link

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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.