Luteolin is a naturally occurring flavonoid found in various fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Its use as a supportive agent during chemotherapy is primarily based on emerging scientific research rather than traditional medicine. Preclinical studies, mostly in cell cultures and animal models, suggest that luteolin possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. These properties may help mitigate some side effects of chemotherapy, such as oxidative stress and inflammation, which are common contributors to tissue damage during cancer treatment.

Specifically, luteolin has been shown in several studies to reduce chemotherapy-induced toxicity in organs like the liver, kidneys, and heart. For instance, animal studies have demonstrated that luteolin can alleviate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress pathways and suppressing inflammatory cytokines. Luteolin may also enhance the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs by sensitizing cancer cells and inhibiting multidrug resistance mechanisms.

However, human clinical trials investigating luteolin for chemotherapy support are extremely limited. Most available evidence is preclinical, and there is not yet strong clinical validation for its routine use in cancer patients. Thus, while the scientific rationale exists and is promising, the evidence supporting luteolin’s use for reducing chemotherapy side effects remains preliminary (rated 2/5). More rigorous clinical studies are needed to confirm safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing in humans.