7,8 – Dihydroxyflavone, also referred to as 7,8 -DHF, is a flavonoid derived from plants with important nootropic effects. It has recently been the subject of much research because of its cognitive and motor enhancing effects on the brain. It has the chemical formula C15H10O4 and a molecular weight of 254.24g/mol.
7,8- Dihydroxyflavone Benefits and Uses
7,8-DHF is believed to have important health benefits on the brain. It is thought to activate the ‘tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB)’, the usual target receptor of ‘Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor’ (BDNF). BDNF is a peptide and essential contributor to brain function because it promotes neuronal and synaptic growth. An adequate level of the BDNF peptide is crucial to prevent neuro-degeneration.
However, because BDNF does not effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, it has poor absorption in the brain. Anecdotally, 7,8 – DHF may mimic the effects of BDNF. It is thought to be a TrkB agonist as it binds to the Trkb receptor in a similar way as BDNF. Studies have shown it may have similar neuroprotective effects on the brain as BDNF because of its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. These include improved memory, reduced stress, and repair of damaged neurons.
Furthermore, 7, 8-DHF may also exert antioxidant activity on the body by replenishing glutathione, as well as act as an antioxidant and support a healthy circulatory system. That being said, these findings stem from animal studies and have not yet been proven on human models.
7, 8-DHF supplements are also known by a few different names, including:
- 38183-03-8
- 7, 8 – Dihydroxyflavone
- 7,8-dihydroxy-2-phenyl-4H-chromen-4-one
- PubChem9845
- 7, 8-Dihydroxyflavone hydrate
- 7,8- Dihydroxy-flavone
- 7, 8 – DHF
- 4H-1-Benzopyran-4-one,7,8-dihydroxy-2-phenyl-
- 7,8-diOH-Flavone
Scientific Consensus
Currently, there are no human studies on 7,8 – DHF. 7,8 – DHF supplements may cause mild and rare side effects such as dizziness, insomnia and nausea. Due to lack of insufficient data regarding the safety of this product for pregnant or breastfeeding women, it should be avoided by these groups.
