Loading...
Loading...
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Apiole (parsley) is a non-standardized food allergenic extract and phenylpropene compound with complex pharmacological activities, including estrogenic and androgenic receptor agonism. It is primarily utilized in allergenic testing and has historical significance in hormonal regulation.
Name
Apiole (parsley)
Raw Name
APIOLE (PARSLEY)
Category
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
8
Variant Count
8
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Apiole (parsley)
Apiole (parsley) is a non-standardized food allergenic extract and phenylpropene compound with complex pharmacological activities, including estrogenic and androgenic receptor agonism. It is primarily utilized in allergenic testing and has historical significance in hormonal regulation.
Detailed information about Apiole (parsley)
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Apiole (parsley).
Apiole (parsley), often referred to in chemical literature as 'parsley camphor,' is a phenylpropene compound derived primarily from the seeds and essential oils of the parsley plant (Petroselinum crispum). Within the modern clinical framework, Apiole is classified by the FDA and other regulatory bodies under the Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC) of Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract. However, its pharmacological profile is significantly more complex than a simple allergen. It is also categorized as an Aromatic Amino Acid, an Estrogen, an Androgen, a Progesterone, and a Nitrogen Binding Agent. This multi-faceted classification reflects its historical use and its observed molecular interactions with human endocrine and metabolic systems.
In a clinical setting, Apiole is often encountered as part of allergenic extracts used for diagnostic purposes—specifically to identify hypersensitivity to parsley and related Umbelliferae family members. Beyond its role in immunology, Apiole has been studied for its effects on the reproductive system and its potential as a recombinant human growth hormone modulator. While it is not a first-line therapy for hormonal imbalances in contemporary medicine, its presence in various botanical preparations and its classification as a 'Standardized Chemical Allergen' necessitate a deep understanding of its systemic effects.
The mechanism of action (MoA) for Apiole is characterized by its activity as an Estrogen Receptor Agonist and an Androgen Receptor Agonist. At the molecular level, Apiole mimics the structure of endogenous steroid hormones, allowing it to bind to and activate nuclear receptors. When Apiole binds to estrogen receptors (ER-alpha and ER-beta), it can trigger downstream signaling pathways that influence reproductive tissue growth and menstrual cycle regulation. This explains its historical use as an emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates menstrual flow).
Furthermore, Apiole exhibits Ammonium Ion Binding Activity. This suggests a role in nitrogen metabolism, where it may assist in the sequestration or processing of nitrogenous waste products. Its classification as a Nitrogen Binding Agent implies that it may influence the urea cycle or ammonia clearance, although this application is less common in standard clinical practice than its allergenic or hormonal roles. Additionally, as an Androgen Receptor Agonist, it may exert anabolic effects or influence secondary sexual characteristics, though these effects are typically seen only at high concentrations that may also approach toxic thresholds.
Understanding how the body processes Apiole is critical for preventing toxicity, a condition historically known as 'apiolism.'
Apiole (parsley) is utilized in several specific clinical and diagnostic contexts:
Apiole is rarely found as a standalone pharmaceutical drug but is present in:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Apiole (parsley) is right for your specific condition. Given its potential for toxicity and hormonal disruption, medical supervision is essential.
Because Apiole (parsley) is primarily used as an allergenic extract or found within botanical supplements, there is no single 'standard' oral dose established by the FDA for therapeutic use. However, clinical patterns include:
Apiole (parsley) is not approved for internal use in pediatric populations. The risk of nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and hepatotoxicity (liver damage) is significantly higher in children due to their smaller body mass and developing metabolic pathways. In allergenic testing, pediatric use must be strictly supervised by a board-certified allergist, using highly diluted extracts to minimize the risk of systemic absorption or anaphylaxis.
Apiole is known to be nephrotoxic. Patients with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) below 60 mL/min/1.73m² should avoid any supplemental or concentrated form of apiole. Even in diagnostic testing, caution is advised if the patient has a history of acute kidney injury.
As the liver is responsible for the oxidative metabolism of apiole, patients with Child-Pugh Class B or C hepatic impairment are at an increased risk of 'apiolism' (apiole poisoning). Dose-related liver stress can exacerbate existing cirrhosis or hepatitis.
Geriatric patients often have reduced renal clearance and may be more sensitive to the estrogenic effects of apiole. Use in this population should be limited to essential diagnostic testing under close monitoring of vital signs and kidney function.
If you are undergoing diagnostic testing with Apiole:
If using botanical parsley extracts:
For allergenic testing, a missed appointment should be rescheduled. For supplemental use, if a dose is missed, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Never double the dose to catch up, as the toxicity of apiole is strictly dose-dependent.
Apiole overdose is a medical emergency. Symptoms include:
Emergency Measures: If ingestion of concentrated apiole is suspected, contact a poison control center immediately. Treatment involves gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and intensive supportive care to manage renal and hepatic function.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.
When exposed to Apiole, particularly through culinary or diagnostic means, the following side effects may occur:
> Warning: Stop taking Apiole (parsley) and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
Prolonged exposure to Apiole, even at sub-toxic doses, can lead to chronic organ stress. Long-term effects include:
No FDA black box warnings currently exist for Apiole (parsley) as a non-standardized allergenic extract. However, historical medical literature and toxicology reports serve as a 'de facto' warning regarding its use as an abortifacient. In many jurisdictions, the sale of concentrated apiole is restricted due to its high toxicity and risk of death when used in attempts to terminate pregnancy.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. Monitoring of blood counts and organ function is recommended for anyone using concentrated parsley derivatives.
Apiole (parsley) is a potent bioactive compound that should never be treated as a 'harmless' herbal supplement. Its classification as an Estrogen and Androgen [EPC] means it can significantly alter hormonal balance. Patients must be aware that the line between a 'therapeutic' dose and a 'toxic' dose of Apiole is exceptionally narrow. This compound is primarily intended for diagnostic use by trained immunologists and is not recommended for self-administration.
No FDA black box warnings for Apiole (parsley). However, the medical community recognizes a severe risk of fatal organ failure associated with the ingestion of parsley essential oils or purified apiole for the purpose of inducing menstruation or abortion. This use is strictly contraindicated and medically dangerous.
If a patient is exposed to significant amounts of Apiole or is using it within a clinical trial, the following monitoring is essential:
Apiole can cause sudden dizziness, vertigo, and ataxia. Patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after a diagnostic test involving apiole or if they are experiencing any neurological side effects from parsley-based products.
Alcohol should be strictly avoided when taking Apiole. Alcohol induces certain CYP450 enzymes in the liver which may accelerate the formation of toxic metabolites from apiole, significantly increasing the risk of hepatotoxicity.
There is no known withdrawal syndrome associated with Apiole. However, if using it for its nitrogen-binding or hormonal properties, discontinuation should be discussed with a doctor to ensure that the underlying condition (such as amenorrhea) is managed through safer, more standardized pharmaceutical means.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Apiole (parsley).
For each major interaction, the mechanism typically involves either pharmacodynamic competition at the hormone receptor site or pharmacokinetic interference through the CYP450 enzyme system. The clinical consequence is usually either increased organ toxicity or the failure of a primary medication to treat its intended condition.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Apiole (parsley) must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis by a physician:
Patients allergic to Apiole may also react to:
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing or administering Apiole (parsley).
Apiole is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy. It has been used illicitly to induce abortion, a practice that frequently results in the death of both the fetus and the mother. The mechanism of teratogenicity and toxicity involves severe oxidative stress to the placenta and maternal organs. There is no safe level of supplemental Apiole during any trimester of pregnancy.
It is unknown if Apiole is excreted in human breast milk. However, due to its low molecular weight and lipophilic nature, passage into milk is highly likely. Because of the risk of neonatal nephrotoxicity and the infant's immature liver function, breastfeeding is not recommended if the mother is using concentrated parsley extracts or undergoing intensive allergenic testing.
Safety and effectiveness in children under the age of 18 have not been established. The use of Apiole in children is generally restricted to diagnostic allergy testing under the care of a specialist. Pediatric patients are at a higher risk for systemic absorption and subsequent organ toxicity from topical or oral exposure.
Clinical data on the use of Apiole in the elderly are limited. However, older adults typically have a natural decline in renal function (GFR). Since Apiole is eliminated renally and is a known nephrotoxin, the risk of accumulation and 'apiolism' is significantly higher in this population. Geriatric patients are also more likely to be on multiple medications (polypharmacy), increasing the risk of drug-drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants and blood pressure medications.
In patients with renal impairment, the half-life of Apiole is significantly prolonged. Dose-dependent damage to the renal tubules can lead to a rapid transition from chronic kidney disease to acute renal failure. Use is generally avoided in any patient with a baseline creatinine clearance of less than 60 mL/min.
Apiole requires hepatic oxidation for clearance. In patients with significant liver dysfunction (Child-Pugh Class B or C), the risk of centrilobular necrosis is elevated. These patients should avoid parsley seed oils and concentrated extracts entirely.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment to avoid life-threatening toxicity.
Apiole (2,5-dimethoxy-3,4-methylenedioxy-1-allylbenzene) is a phenylpropene that functions as a multi-receptor ligand. Its primary molecular targets include:
The onset of action for Apiole's allergenic response is rapid (15-30 minutes), while its hormonal and toxicological effects have a slower onset (4-12 hours post-ingestion). The duration of effect is prolonged due to its sequestration in adipose tissue. Tolerance to its hormonal effects has not been clinically documented, but its toxic effects are cumulative.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | ~60-70% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | ~85% (Primarily Albumin) |
| Half-life | 12-24 hours (Estimated) |
| Tmax | 1-2 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4, CYP2E1) |
| Excretion | Renal (70%), Fecal (25%), Pulmonary (5%) |
Apiole is classified as a Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]. It is chemically related to other phenylpropenes like safrole and myristicin, which also exhibit similar neurotoxic and hepatotoxic profiles at high concentrations.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Apiole (parsley)
Apiole (parsley) is primarily used in modern clinical settings as a non-standardized allergenic extract for diagnosing food allergies. By applying a diluted form of the compound to the skin, allergists can determine if a patient is hypersensitive to parsley or related plants. Historically, it was also used in traditional medicine to stimulate menstrual flow and treat hormonal imbalances. In some research contexts, it is studied for its ability to bind ammonium ions and its interactions with estrogen and androgen receptors. However, due to its high potential for toxicity, its use is strictly limited to diagnostic and supervised clinical applications.
The most common side effects of Apiole include localized skin reactions such as redness, itching, and swelling at the site of an allergy test. When ingested in small amounts via parsley, it is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or increased sensitivity to sunlight. At higher supplemental doses, individuals often report dizziness, headaches, and a ringing in the ears known as tinnitus. Because it is an estrogen receptor agonist, some users may experience breast tenderness or changes in their menstrual cycle. It is vital to report any persistent or worsening symptoms to a healthcare professional immediately.
Drinking alcohol while taking Apiole or parsley extracts is strongly discouraged by medical professionals. Alcohol can induce liver enzymes that accelerate the metabolism of Apiole into toxic byproducts, significantly increasing the risk of liver damage (hepatotoxicity). Furthermore, both alcohol and Apiole can cause dizziness and coordination issues, and combining them may lead to severe impairment or accidents. Alcohol can also irritate the stomach lining, worsening any gastrointestinal side effects caused by Apiole. To ensure safety and prevent organ stress, avoid all alcoholic beverages if you are using concentrated parsley derivatives.
No, Apiole (parsley) is extremely dangerous during pregnancy and is strictly contraindicated. It has a well-documented history as an abortifacient, meaning it can stimulate uterine contractions and lead to miscarriage or preterm labor. Beyond the risk to the fetus, Apiole is highly toxic to the mother during pregnancy, often causing fatal kidney and liver failure. Even culinary amounts of parsley should be consumed in moderation, and concentrated apiole supplements or oils must be avoided entirely. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss all herbal and dietary supplements with your obstetrician.
The 'onset time' for Apiole depends on the intended effect and the method of administration. For allergy testing, a skin reaction typically appears within 15 to 20 minutes of application. If ingested for its hormonal or metabolic effects, it may take 1 to 2 hours to reach peak levels in the bloodstream, with systemic effects manifesting over several hours. However, because Apiole is fat-soluble, it can accumulate in the body's tissues, meaning its effects may persist for days. Because of this slow clearance, the risk of cumulative toxicity is high with repeated doses.
Yes, you can generally stop taking Apiole or parsley supplements suddenly, as there is no evidence that it causes physical dependence or a withdrawal syndrome. However, if you were using it under medical supervision for a specific condition like nitrogen binding or hormonal regulation, stopping abruptly may cause your symptoms to return. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing any supplement to ensure your underlying health needs are met. If you experience any unusual symptoms after stopping, such as changes in urination or skin color, seek medical advice to rule out delayed toxicity.
If you miss a dose of an Apiole-containing supplement, you should skip the missed dose and continue with your next scheduled dose. You should never take a double dose to make up for the one you missed, as this significantly increases the risk of 'apiolism' or acute organ damage. For diagnostic allergy testing, if you miss your appointment, simply reschedule it with your allergist. Since Apiole is not typically used for life-critical daily therapy, a single missed dose is not an emergency, but maintaining a consistent schedule (if prescribed) is important for clinical monitoring.
Apiole itself is not directly linked to significant fat accumulation or weight gain in the traditional sense. However, because it is a known nephrotoxin, it can cause the kidneys to malfunction, leading to fluid retention and swelling (edema). This fluid buildup can result in a sudden increase in 'water weight,' which is a serious sign of kidney stress. Additionally, its activity as an estrogen receptor agonist could theoretically contribute to bloating or minor weight fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle. Any sudden or unexplained weight gain while using parsley extracts should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.
Apiole has several significant drug interactions and should be used with extreme caution alongside other medications. It can interfere with blood thinners like warfarin due to the high Vitamin K content in parsley and its own effects on red blood cells. It may also interact with hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, by competing for estrogen and progesterone receptors. Furthermore, taking Apiole with other drugs that are hard on the kidneys or liver can increase the risk of organ failure. Always provide your doctor with a full list of your current medications before using Apiole.
Apiole is not a standard prescription drug, so the concept of 'brand' vs. 'generic' does not apply in the traditional sense. It is available as a chemical component in various non-standardized allergenic extracts and as a constituent of parsley seed essential oils sold by many different herbal supplement manufacturers. These products are not regulated with the same rigor as pharmaceutical generics and can vary widely in their actual apiole content. For diagnostic purposes, your allergist will use a professional-grade extract that meets specific laboratory standards, which is different from over-the-counter herbal products.