Luteolin-7-O-glucoside (Flavonoid Glycoside)

Luteolin-7-O-glucoside is a flavonoid glycoside found in various plants that consists of luteolin bound to a glucose molecule. It demonstrates theoretical antioxidant properties through free radical scavenging mechanisms, though clinical evidence in humans remains limited.

Origin & History

Luteolin-7-O-glucoside (also known as cynaroside or luteoloside) is a flavonoid O-glycoside where luteolin is linked to a glucose molecule at the C7 position. It occurs naturally in plants including Mexican oregano, globe artichoke, Roman chamomile, wild celery, lentils, and corn, with a molecular weight of 448.38 g/mol.

Historical & Cultural Context

No historical context or traditional medicine use is documented in the available sources. While the compound occurs in commonly used plants like artichoke and chamomile, specific traditional applications of the isolated compound are not recorded.

Health Benefits

• Antioxidant activity - classified as having antioxidant properties as a plant metabolite (evidence quality: theoretical based on chemical structure)
• No clinical benefits documented - no human trials identified in available research
• No mechanistic benefits established - biochemical pathways not specified in research
• No traditional use benefits recorded - historical applications not documented
• No safety profile established - contraindications and interactions unknown

How It Works

Luteolin-7-O-glucoside acts through free radical scavenging via its phenolic hydroxyl groups, which can donate electrons to neutralize reactive oxygen species. The compound may also chelate metal ions that catalyze oxidative reactions. Upon enzymatic hydrolysis by β-glucosidase, it releases the active aglycone luteolin, which can interact with cellular antioxidant pathways.

Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses specifically on luteolin-7-O-glucoside were identified in the available research. The current literature focuses solely on chemical structure and plant occurrence rather than therapeutic effects.

Clinical Summary

No clinical trials specifically investigating luteolin-7-O-glucoside in humans have been identified in current literature. Research on this specific glycoside form is limited compared to its aglycone counterpart, luteolin. Most evidence supporting antioxidant activity comes from in vitro studies examining chemical structure-activity relationships. The therapeutic potential remains theoretical without controlled human studies demonstrating bioavailability or clinical efficacy.

Nutritional Profile

Luteolin-7-O-glucoside is a pure flavonoid glycoside compound, not a whole food ingredient, therefore it contains no meaningful macronutrients (protein, fat, or carbohydrate in nutritional terms), no dietary fiber, and no vitamins or minerals in a dietary sense. As a single bioactive molecule, its molecular weight is approximately 448.38 g/mol, consisting of the flavone aglycone luteolin (286.24 g/mol) conjugated with a glucose moiety at the 7-position hydroxyl group. The compound contains a characteristic 3',4'-dihydroxy catechol B-ring and 5,7-dihydroxy A-ring substitution pattern, which accounts for its antioxidant electron-donating capacity. Bioavailability: Upon ingestion, intestinal and microbial beta-glucosidases cleave the glucose moiety to release free luteolin aglycone, which is the primary absorbed form; the intact glycoside has limited direct intestinal absorption. Peak plasma concentrations following oral dosing in animal studies suggest moderate bioavailability of the aglycone form, estimated at 5–20% depending on gut microbiome composition and food matrix. The compound is found naturally in chamomile, celery, thyme, and artichoke at concentrations ranging from approximately 0.1–5 mg/g dry weight depending on plant source. No caloric contribution is relevant at physiological doses.

Preparation & Dosage

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as no human trials have been documented. Forms, standardization details, and safe dosing parameters have not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Unknown - no synergistic compounds identified in research

Safety & Interactions

Safety data for luteolin-7-O-glucoside supplementation is not established due to lack of clinical studies. Potential interactions with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes may occur, similar to other flavonoids. Gastrointestinal effects cannot be ruled out with higher doses. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid supplementation due to insufficient safety data.