phloretin
Phloretin is a natural dihydrochalcone flavonoid found primarily in apples and apple tree bark that exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. It works by modulating multiple signaling pathways including NF-κB and Nrf2, trapping reactive dicarbonyl species, and inhibiting specific ion channels and glucose transporters. Research suggests potential benefits for cognitive function, inflammation reduction, and cellular protection against oxidative stress.
Lab Notes — Research Studies
01 The Molecular Pharmacology of Phloretin: Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Action
Comprehensive review detailing phloretin's anti-inflammatory mechanisms through inhibition of cytokine signaling pathways, suppression of COX and iNOS, and protective effects in multiple organ systems including cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, and nervous tissue.
View Study ((PubMed))02 Nootropic, neuroprotective and neurotrophic effects of phloretin in scopolamine induced amnesia in mice
In vitro and animal studies demonstrated that phloretin significantly influences neuronal membrane fluidity and potential, decreased excitotoxicity, and showed nootropic and neuroprotective effects in scopolamine-induced amnesia models.
View Study ((PubMed))03 Apple Polyphenols, Phloretin and Phloridzin: New Trapping Agents of Reactive Dicarbonyl Species
Research identified phloretin as an effective trapping agent for reactive dicarbonyl species, providing antioxidant protection that may contribute to preventing oxidative stress-related diseases and cellular damage.
View Study ((PubMed))04 Effects of Phloretin and Phloridzin on Ca2+ Handling, the Action Potential, and Ion Currents in Rat Ventricular Myocytes
Study revealed that phloretin affects cardiac cellular function by modulating calcium handling, inhibiting transient outward potassium currents, and increasing action potential duration in ventricular myocytes.
View Study ((PubMed))05 Flavonoids and their role in oxidative stress, inflammation, and human diseases
Comprehensive review discussing how flavonoids including phloretin modulate oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which are key drivers in pathogenesis of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune conditions.
View Study ((PubMed))Formula — Benefits & Dosage
⚗️ Effects
- Research Support: Strong preclinical evidence for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects across multiple organ systems
- Bioavailability: As a metabolite of phlorizin (found in apples), bioavailability may vary depending on source and formulation
- Mechanism Diversity: Works through multiple complementary pathways rather than single-target action
- Clinical Data: Limited human clinical trials available; most evidence from in vitro and animal studies
💉 Dosage & Administration
- Research Doses: Studies typically use concentrations ranging from micromolar to millimolar in vitro
- Transdermal Application: One Reddit user mentioned transdermal phloretin use, though specific dosing not provided
- Food Sources: Can be obtained through apple consumption, particularly from apple peels and seeds
- Standardization: Limited commercial supplement standardization data available
⚠️ Side Effects
- Cardiac Effects: May affect cardiac ion channels and action potential duration based on cellular studies
- Limited Safety Data: Insufficient long-term human safety data from clinical trials
- Drug Interactions: Potential interactions with medications affecting cardiac function or glucose transport
- Individual Variation: Effects may vary significantly based on individual physiology and concurrent medications
📦 Availability & Sourcing
- Supplement Form: Available as isolated compound or in apple extract supplements, though less common than other flavonoids
- Natural Sources: Found in apples, apple cider, and apple tree bark products
- Research Chemical: More commonly available through specialty chemical suppliers for research purposes
Reaction Log — User Experiences
Very limited User feedback specifically about phloretin, with only one brief mention in a supplement stack context. Insufficient user experience data to establish clear sentiment, though related flavonoid compounds show generally positive but varied responses.
Synthesis — Related Compounds
⚠️ IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational and research purposes only. phloretin may not be approved for human use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any supplements or research compounds. We do not guarantee accuracy or completeness of information presented.