Dietary flavone found widely in plants. One of the two key active compounds in justicia gendarussa.
Class: flavone (aglycone)
Molecular formula: C₁₅H₁₀O₅
CAS: 520-36-5
Source (in this context): Justicia gendarussa leaf
mechanism
Inhibits NF-κB transcription factor and downstream COX-2 / iNOS expression. Blocks prostaglandin and nitric oxide synthesis in the inflammatory cascade. Functional analogue of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) without cyclooxygenase covalent binding and without associated gastrointestinal toxicity.
Additional activities: mild anxiolytic (GABA-A modulation), weak aromatase inhibitor, AMPK activator (longevity signaling).
pharmacology
Onset: immediate at adequate tissue concentration
Bioavailability: moderate; enhanced with fat-soluble cofactors
Inhibition: 89% edema reduction in carrageenan rat model
Safety: no significant toxicity at dietary/herbal doses in human studies
occurrence
Widespread in plant kingdom: chamomile, parsley, celery, artichoke, peppermint. Justicia gendarussa is a concentrated source.
related
gendarusin a — co-occurring compound in J. gendarussa, hyaluronidase inhibitor
cumtea — consumer product delivering both compounds