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Also known as: 4',5,7-Trihydroxyflavone, Chamomile Extract
A flavonoid from chamomile that promotes sleep, reduces anxiety, and inhibits CD38 — an NAD+-consuming enzyme — making it both a sleep aid and a longevity compound.
Apigenin is a bioflavonoid found in chamomile, parsley, and celery. It gained mainstream attention when Andrew Huberman highlighted its dual role as a sleep aid and NAD+ protector. It binds to benzodiazepine sites on GABA-A receptors (like valium, but much milder) and inhibits CD38, the enzyme that degrades NAD+.
CD38 is an ectoenzyme that consumes NAD+ and increases with age. By age 60, CD38 activity is the primary driver of NAD+ decline — more impactful than reduced synthesis. Inhibiting CD38 with apigenin preserves existing NAD+ stores, complementing NAD+ precursors like NMN/NR.
The optimal NAD+ strategy:
50mg apigenin + 200mg L-Theanine + 2g Magnesium L-Threonate — taken 30-60 minutes before bed. This is Andrew Huberman's publicly shared sleep stack.
Apigenin binds to the benzodiazepine site on GABA-A receptors as a positive allosteric modulator, enhancing GABAergic inhibition for anxiolytic and sleep-promoting effects. It inhibits CD38 enzymatic activity, preserving NAD+ levels. It also inhibits aromatase (CYP19), NF-κB, and several kinases involved in cell proliferation.
Typical Dose
50-100mg
Frequency
Daily (before bed)
Cycle Length
Ongoing
Half-Life
~2-3 hours
Apigenin is GRAS. Clinical studies for anxiety and sleep. CD38 inhibition demonstrated in vitro and in animal models. Part of the Huberman sleep protocol.
Very safe. GRAS status. No significant adverse effects at recommended doses. Mild sedative — take evening only. Theoretical concern about excessive aromatase inhibition at very high doses (unlikely at 50mg). Safe for long-term daily use.
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