If you're interested in biohacking, you'll appreciate this information about luteolin, a powerful cognitive flavonoid that could be the brain boost you've been looking for.
Let us first discuss the antioxidant properties of luteolin. The antioxidant capacity of luteolin is measured by its ORAC score, which stands for oxygen radical absorbance capacity. This score indicates how well a substance absorbs free radicals, unstable molecules that can harm cells in the body. Luteolin has a high ORAC value, suggesting that it effectively neutralizes free radicals.
However, luteolin does more than neutralize free radicals; it also works to prevent them from being produced in the first place. This is accomplished by inhibiting specific oxidases that produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, luteolin protects the body's endogenous antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase, one of the body's most powerful antioxidants. Finally, luteolin inhibits enzymes that oxidize cellular components, resulting in cell damage.
Lutein has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its antioxidant properties. A study published in the Central European Journal of Immunology discovered that giving allergic mice luteolin reduced the number of inflammatory cells such as lymphocytes, leukotrienes, and acidophils. The mice also reduced the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lungs, which is a common asthma problem.
However, the most intriguing research on luteolin is its effects on the brain. According to a study published in PLOS ONE, luteolin promotes nerve outgrowth in culture. When neurons form new connections, they must extend projections known as axons and dendrites to communicate with other neurons. This process has been aided by luteolin, potentially improving brain function and plasticity.
In addition, luteolin has been shown to increase testosterone levels in men. According to a study published in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, luteolin increased testosterone production in mouse testes. While more research on the effects of luteolin on testosterone in humans is needed, these findings suggest that it could be a useful supplement for boosting testosterone production.
While most luteolin research has been done in vitro or in rodent models, these findings indicate that it has the potential to be a powerful tool for supporting brain health and overall well-being.