| Chrysin Chrysin is the chemical name for a type of
isoflavone molecule that has been demonstrated to be a potent aromatazation blocker. In
other words, Chrysin minimizes the conversion of testosterone to either estrogen or DHT
(dihyrdotestosterone). Chrysin is extracted from a fairly rare plant called the Passiflora
Caerula. It is a natural extract yet more powerful than most anti-aromatase drugs you
might be familiar with.
Chrysin belongs to the flavone class of
flavonoids. Chrysin is found naturally in various plants including the Pelargonium
species, which are germanium-like plants; the Passiflora or passion flower species, which
include tropical passion fruit; and the Pinaceae species, including pine trees. Chrysin is
a potent antioxidant that possesses vitamin-like effects in the body. It has been shown to
induce an antiinflammatory effect, possibly through inhibition of the enzymes
5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase inflammation pathways.
Chrysin (5, 7-dihydroxyflavone) belongs to
a biologically active class known as bioflavonoids. Chrysin has been isolated from
Passiflora plants, such as P. coerulea (used as a sedative in folklore medicine)1 and P.
incarnate (maracuja "passion flower" which is well known in traditional medicine
for its diverse biological effects). The effects of Chrysin include anti-inflammatory
action, antiviral (including anti-HIV) action, vasodilatory effects and anxiety-reducing
action. Chrysin has also been shown to have a potential role in drug metabolism and the
chemoprevention of carcinogenesis. Laboratory studies, on in vitro and animal models,
revealed that Chrysin inhibited the secretion of lysosomal enzymes and arachidonic acid,
as well as the degranulation of mast cells, thereby reducing inflammation.
Chrysin's aromatase-inhibiting effects have
made it popular among some body builders and athletes who use androgens. Very preliminary
research suggests that chrysin may emerge as a useful anxiolytic agent, that it might aid
in the control of morphine withdrawl and that it might have some chemopreventive
properties in cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Chrysin happens is a very good inhibitor of
aromatase, the enzyme in the body that converts testosterone into estradiol, and
androstenedione into estrone. When this enzyme is inhibited, testosterone (as well as
androstenedione) will tend to accumulate to higher concentrations. Indeed, numerous
studies have shown that levels of testosterone rise when the action of the aromatase
enzyme is blocked. It therefore comes as no surprise that chrysin is popular among
athletes and other people eager to increase their testosterone levels, often in
conjunction with supplemental testosterone precursors. |
