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Healthy Inflammation Management
Luteolin Background and Benefits
Luteolin is a chemical that is classified as a citrus bioflavonoid. It is a yellow crystal in pure form, which is typical for flavonoids. Luteolin has many uses as a health supplement due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties allow luteolin to scavenge reactive compounds containing oxygen and nitrogen, which can cause cellular damage. Additional biological effects of luteolin include the activation of the dopamine transporter.
Luteolin is produced by many plants, many of which are edible. Significant dietary sources of luteolin include citrus fruits, especially oranges. Broccoli, carrots, celery and green pepper are vegetables that also contain luteolin. Herbs with luteolin include parsley, peppermint, rosemary and oregano. Peanut hulls are one of the most important commercial sources of luteolin. These hulls are an inexpensive source since they’re a by-product of processed peanuts.
Ethanol reflux is a common method of extracting luteolin from peanut hulls. This process essentially consists of mixing the powdered hulls with 70 percent ethanol to obtain a liquid/solid ratio of 20:1. This mixture is then heated at 85 degrees Celsius for at least 1.5 hours. The vapor that comes off the mixture is high in luteolin, which can be further concentrated to a high level of purity.
Uses of Luteolin
The uses of luteolin in health supplements primarily relates to its ability to manage inflammatory conditions. These uses include support for memory and the nervous system in addition to antioxidant effects.
Memory support
Early research shows that luteolin may reduce the brain’s production of inflammatory cytokines. This effect could help to maintain recall as you age.
Antioxidant support
Luteolin exhibits antioxidant activity which is especially helpful for muscle and nerve cells.
Nervous system
The ability of luteolin to inhibit the production of cytokines such as IL-6, NFKB and TNF alpha may help to maintain the nervous system.
Healthy inflammation management
Luteolin helps support the inhibition of the inflammatory response of microglial cells, according to one study. This characteristic may allow luteolin to help maintain healthy inflammatory conditions.
Signs You May Need Luteolin
Poor neurological functions are generally the most significant indications that you may need luteolin, especially if you are over the age of 50. These functions include memory, learning and motor skills. Signs of oxidative stress such as skin lesions and wrinkles are some of the more visible signs that you may need luteolin. Inflammatory conditions that affect the nervous system are some of the chronic signs that luteolin may benefit you. Auto-immune disorders may also mean that you require additional luteolin.
