Does Chrysin Block Estrogen?
Written by Ben Bunting: BA, PGCert. (Sport & Exercise Nutrition) // British Army Physical Training Instructor // S&C Coach.
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What is Chrysin? Chrysin is a type of flavone found in passion flowers and honey. The chemical name is 5,7-dihydroxyflavone. Chrysin is extracted from blue passion flowers. Among other things, chysin is an anti-depressant, aromatase inhibitor, and flavonoid. Whether it is used as a supplement or as a food additive, Chrysin is found in many natural products.
Flavone
The flavone in Chrysin is a compound that meets several key structural requirements for a flavonoid. It has potent anticancer activity, especially when combined with other flavonoids. In a recent study, apigenin, baicalin, and scutellarein inhibited proliferation and invasion of U87-MG glioma cells by almost 50%. By contrast, chrysin alone had no anti-proliferative activity.
Chrysin inhibits the eosinophilic inflammatory response in human asthma. It reduces the number of inflammatory cells in the airways, and it shows dose-dependent effects. In addition, it also decreased the total number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Chrysin inhibits the activity of the MAPK pathway, including ERK, p38 MAPK, and JNK. It also inhibits the NF-kB signaling pathway, COX-2, and the iNOS gene.
In addition to being a central benzodiazepine receptor ligand, chrysin is also a flavone with a role in cell-to-cell communication. Despite its beneficial effects on the immune system, the bioavailability of flavonoids is not known. Studies conducted on human intestinal epithelial cells have revealed low oral bioavailability. Thus, chrysin is a safe, natural antioxidant and should be included in the diet of cancer patients.
Aromatase inhibitor
A number of flavonoids are active against the human body's estrogen receptors, including chrysin, which has a potent cytotoxic effect on leukemia cells. In experiments with leukemia cells, Zaric and colleagues demonstrated selective cell viability reductions with chrysin, whereas PBMC from healthy subjects showed no such effect. Chrysin's LC50 values were 51 mM for 24 h of incubation and 32 mM for 48 h.
Studies evaluating chrysin's antiaromatase activity were conducted using rat and human microsomal enzymes. Microsomes were produced from Nile tilapia, which varied in age and body weight. pH 8.0 was the most effective for extraction. Results showed that chrysin has significant antiaromatase activity and was not banned by WADA.
Another beneficial effect of chrysin is its ability to suppress the production of estrogen by preventing hormone-dependent breast cancer. Chrysin creams can also reduce the body's overall estrogen levels. Although this treatment isn't a cure-all, it is a valuable part of a man's overall treatment plan. The best chrysin cream for testosterone-deficiency is one that contains the highest concentrations of this substance.
Aside from its potential for lowering estrogen levels, chrysin is an important component of testosterone-boosting supplements. While it does not raise testosterone, it can help keep estrogen levels under control, thus reducing the likelihood of cancerous outcomes. By inhibiting COX-2, prostaglandin-E2, histamine, and the NF-gb pathway, chrysin also helps support healthy inflammation levels in the body.
Anti-depressant
A new substance called chrysin has been discovered to possess the same anti-depressant effects as fluoxetine. It attenuates depressive-like behaviors and increases 5-HT metabolism in the brain. Researchers believe that chrysin is a promising candidate for depression treatment. In a mouse model of agitated depression, chrysin presented antidepressant effects comparable to fluoxetine.
The research suggests that the chemical chrysin activates multiple neurochemical processes, including the MAPK/ERK1/2 signaling pathway and neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. This mechanism is still poorly understood, and further research is required to fully assess its effects. Chrysin is still undergoing preclinical studies, and there are several important points to consider before it can be approved for human use.
A number of studies have shown that chrysin has anxiolytic-like effects. Chrysin blocks GABAA receptor function and is thought to act on the Cl ion channel. Studies have indicated that specific antagonists of the GABAA receptor can block its action. The drug also inhibits the production of NO, NT, and NOX4.
Conclusion
Chrysin is sold in capsule, powder, and topical formulations. Its effects are not fully understood, and consumers should consult with a doctor before using it. Some users say chrysin boosts testosterone levels. Others reported increased aggression. However, others didn't notice any effects at all. One user reported acidity. The FDA has not approved chrysin for medical use.