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Prenatal Exposure to Flavonoid Baicalein Shows Conflicting Results

Baicalein, a flavonoid causes prolonged estrus and suppressed fertility output upon prenatal exposure in female mice

In Summary

 Flavonoids are found in large quantities in flax seeds and plants including cannabis. There is conflicting evidence as to the effects of prenatal exposure to excessive quantities of flavonoids. The flavonoid baicalein has been used in Asian countries as herbal medicine to treat conditions including memory disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and Parkinson’s disease. However, in excessive quantities, flavonoids have been shown to disrupt hormone production and function. Researchers interested in the effects of prenatal exposure to the baicalein administered the flavonoid to pregnant rats and observed effects on mothers and offspring. No signs of toxicity were observed. Exposed offspring weighed significantly less than control offspring, however, exposed female offspring also saw enhanced fertility .

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Benjamin Caplan, MDPrenatal Exposure to Flavonoid Baicalein Shows Conflicting Results