Compound Monograph

Vicenin

Vicenin is a C-glycosyl flavone (an apigenin di-C-glycoside) found in holy basil and other herbs.

Classification

Vicenin is a flavonoid (c-glycosyl flavone), 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? (3)

Vicenin is a naturally occurring flavonoid (c-glycosyl flavone), found in Holy basil / tulsi and 2 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).

Research & Evidence

Vicenin refers to C-glycosylated flavones derived from apigenin, most commonly vicenin-2, which carries sugar groups attached directly to the flavone core. It occurs in holy basil (tulsi) and a range of other plants and is one of the water-soluble flavonoid constituents of such herbs. Like many dietary flavonoids it has been studied in preclinical settings for antioxidant-type activity, but little is firmly established about its effects in humans.

Toxicity & Safety

As a flavonoid found in edible and medicinal plants, vicenin is generally presumed to have low toxicity at dietary levels; specific safety data are limited.