Apigenin, a naturally occurring flavonoid found in parsley, chamomile, and other plants, has attracted research interest for its potential neuroprotective effects, including in the context of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The scientific support for apigenin's use in PD is based primarily on preclinical studies—mainly animal models and cell culture experiments. These studies have demonstrated that apigenin can exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, which may be beneficial in reducing the neuronal damage characteristic of PD. For example, several rodent studies have shown that apigenin can protect dopaminergic neurons from toxin-induced degeneration, a common model for PD research. Apigenin is thought to modulate signaling pathways involved in oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which play roles in PD pathogenesis.

However, there are currently no well-controlled human clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy or safety of apigenin as a treatment or supportive agent for Parkinson's Disease. Its use in this context is not rooted in traditional medicine, but rather in laboratory data suggesting a plausible mechanism of benefit. Thus, while the scientific rationale exists at a basic research level, the evidence remains limited (rated 2/5), and its clinical relevance has not been established. Individuals should not use apigenin as a therapy for PD outside of research settings, pending further studies.