Compound Monograph
Nothofagin
Nothofagin is a C-glycosylated dihydrochalcone flavonoid found notably in rooibos.
Classification
Nothofagin is a flavonoid (dihydrochalcone c-glycoside), part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Nothofagin is a naturally occurring flavonoid (dihydrochalcone c-glycoside), found in Rooibos. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Nothofagin is a C-glycosylated dihydrochalcone and one of the characteristic polyphenols of unfermented (green) rooibos, where it occurs alongside the better-known aspalathin. Like many dietary flavonoids it has been studied chiefly for antioxidant activity in laboratory settings. It is a minor dietary polyphenol and is not associated with any psychoactive effect.
Toxicity & Safety
As a constituent of a widely consumed herbal tea, nothofagin is considered low in toxicity at dietary levels. Its safety has not been extensively characterised in isolation.