Luteolin

Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in various plants and foods, such as celery, peppers, and chamomile, with emerging evidence supporting its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Pre-clinical studies indicate that luteolin modulates key cellular pathways involved in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, by reducing neuroinflammation, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and protecting mitochondrial function. It promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, enhances ATP production, and induces mitophagy, suggesting a role in maintaining neuronal energy homeostasis and preventing neurodegeneration [1][4][5]. Luteolin has also been investigated as an adjunct in viral infections like COVID-19 due to its immunomodulatory effects [7]. However, concerns exist regarding its endocrine-disrupting potential, with evidence showing it acts as a progesterone antagonist and estrogen agonist, which may pose risks in hormone-sensitive conditions [2]. Despite promising mechanistic data, clinical evidence in humans remains limited, and optimal dosing has not been established through rigorous phase II trials [7][3].