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Chrysin is a flavonoid derived from the blue passion flower (Passiflora coerulea). Small amounts are also found in honey and in propolis, the resin-like substance that bees use to construct their hives.
A possible therapeutic use for chrysin has been found for women who have breast cancer. In 1993, a University of Minnesota study found that chrysin was the most effective of all the flavonoids tested and to be equal in potency to the aromatase inhibiting drug tested. (Campbell 1993) Aromatase inhibiting drugs are used as part of breast cancer treatment, as well as to counteract uterine fibroids or to help maintain healthy breast tissue. Unlike the drugs, however, which are associated with side effects such as hot flashes, nausea, weakness, headaches, arthritis, and pain, chrysin has no known side effects.
The ability of chrysin to inhibit aromatase and estrogen production has been repeated in various studies over the years, and pharmaceutical companies are also interested in the cancer-fighting abilities of this natural substance. However, because natural elements cannot be patented, the drug companies must alter them to secure a patent.
A recent study published in Cancer Letters further supports the value of chrysin as an anti-cancer agent. (Li 2010) The problem with chrysin is that while it demonstrates anti-cancer activity in cell cultures, it has not proven effective in human studies. Chrysin also has antioxidant properties and is an effective anti-inflammatory agent. Some bodybuilders say they take chrysin because it reportedly boosts testosterone levels, but no studies have verified this claim. (Gambelunghe 2003)
Chrysin supplements are available as capsules. Do not take chrysin unless you consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional. No side effects have been associated with chrysin.
References
Campbell DR, Kurzer MS. Flavonoid inhibition of aromatase enzyme activity in human preadipocytes. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1993 Sep; 46(3): 381-88.
Gambelunghe C et al. Effects of chrysin on urinary testosterone levels in human males. J Med Food 2003 Winter; 6(4): 387-90.
Li X, Huang Q, Ong CN, Yang XF, Shen HM. Chrysin sensitizes tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced apoptosis in human tumor cells via suppression of nuclear factor-kappaB. Cancer Lett 2010 Feb 2.
