Luteolin: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety
Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the FactoWiki Editorial Team for clarity and source accuracy
Quick summary
Luteolin is a plant flavonoid with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and possible 'mast-cell-stabilising' effects, studied for brain health and allergy-type inflammation. Most evidence is preclinical.
What is Luteolin?
Luteolin is a flavonoid found in celery, parsley, chamomile and many herbs. It's marketed for brain health, neuroinflammation and allergy/mast-cell-related issues, sometimes in combination with other flavonoids.
What Luteolin is commonly used for
In supplements, Luteolin is most often included for brain & memory support. It is used as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition — the distinction matters, because the claims on a sales page are often stronger than the evidence allows.
How Luteolin works
Luteolin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and appears to calm mast cells (immune cells involved in allergic and inflammatory responses), including in the brain. This underlies its interest for neuroinflammation and allergy-type symptoms, mostly from lab work.
What the evidence says
Here's an honest snapshot of what published research suggests about Luteolin — including where the evidence is limited.
- Luteolin shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and mast-cell-stabilising effects in laboratory and animal studies. (PubMed research)
- Human clinical evidence is limited, so brain and allergy benefits remain largely unproven. (PubMed research)
Typical dosage used in studies
No well-established human dose; it appears in flavonoid blends at varying amounts and is poorly absorbed alone. This is research information for context, not a recommendation — confirm what's appropriate for you with a healthcare professional.
Side effects and safety
Generally regarded as safe as a dietary flavonoid; concentrated supplement safety is less studied.
Medication interactions and who should avoid Luteolin
Medication & safety check
It may affect drug-metabolising enzymes and add to anti-inflammatory or blood-thinning effects; caution with medications.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you take any medication, confirm it's safe to combine with Luteolin with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Sources & further reading
The summary above is drawn from peer-reviewed research and authoritative references. For general, authoritative background you can also consult:
- PubMed research on Luteolin
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
- NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
- MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
Frequently asked questions
What is luteolin used for?
Brain health, neuroinflammation and allergy-type inflammation, mostly based on lab studies.
Does luteolin work in humans?
Human evidence is limited; most data are preclinical.
Where is luteolin found?
In celery, parsley, chamomile and many culinary herbs.
Is luteolin safe?
As a dietary flavonoid, generally yes; concentrated-supplement safety is less studied.
Related ingredients to explore
Ingredients often studied or formulated alongside Luteolin — useful for understanding the full picture of a formula.