Fisetin: The Flavonoid With Powerful Anti-Aging Potential

Written By ANGELA CHANNELL

When we talk about nutrition and longevity, most people think of vitamins or antioxidants like vitamin C. But there’s another compound that has captured the attention of researchers: fisetin.

What is Fisetin?

Fisetin is a natural plant compound called a flavonoid, found in foods such as strawberries, apples, grapes, persimmons, cucumbers, and onions. Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but fisetin stands out for its unique role in healthy aging.

How Fisetin Works in the Body

Early research shows that fisetin may do more than just fight free radicals:

  • Senolytic activity: Fisetin may help clear out “senescent cells,” also called “zombie cells,” which accumulate with age and contribute to inflammation and tissue damage.

  • Antioxidant support: It helps reduce oxidative stress, protecting cells from DNA damage.

  • Anti-inflammatory effects: By calming inflammatory pathways, fisetin may support healthier tissues throughout the body.

  • Neuroprotection: Studies suggest fisetin could help support memory, learning, and overall brain health.

  • Metabolic support: Early evidence links fisetin to improved insulin sensitivity and blood sugar balance.

What the Research Says

Most fisetin studies so far have been in animals or lab settings. These show promising results in extending lifespan, reducing age-related decline, and protecting the brain. Human studies are still limited, but clinical trials are underway to better understand its benefits.

Food Sources of Fisetin

While supplements exist, fisetin is naturally found in common foods. The richest sources include:

  • Strawberries (the highest food source)

  • Apples

  • Grapes

  • Persimmons

  • Cucumbers

  • Onions

Adding these to your diet not only gives you fisetin, but also other supportive plant nutrients.

Should You Supplement?

Because fisetin content in food is relatively low, some researchers suggest that supplements may provide higher, more therapeutic amounts. In some protocols, fisetin is taken in short bursts (“pulses”) to help clear senescent cells.

📚 References

  1. Yousefzadeh MJ, Zhu Y, McGowan SJ, et al. Fisetin is a senotherapeutic that extends health and lifespan. EBioMedicine. 2018;36:18-28. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom.2018.09.015

  2. Rahman S, Carter H, Mitra R, et al. Effects of Fisetin Treatment on Cellular Senescence. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(16):12641. doi:10.3390/ijms241612641

  3. Choudhury R, Das A, Bhattacharyya NP, et al. Fisetin attenuates cellular senescence accumulation during stem cell expansion. Stem Cells. 2023;41(7):698-712. doi:10.1093/stmcls/sxad039

  4. Farr JN, Xu M, Weivoda MM, et al. Impact of senolytic treatment on immunity, aging, and disease. Front Aging. 2023;4:1161799. doi:10.3389/fragi.2023.1161799

  5. Kirkland JL, Tchkonia T. Senolytics: From pharmacological inhibitors to immunotherapies, a promising future for patients’ treatment. npj Aging. 2024;10:8. doi:10.1038/s41514-024-00138-4

  6. ClinicalTrials.gov. Pilot Trial of Fisetin in Healthy Volunteers and Older Adults. NCT06431932. Updated July 2024. Accessed September 24, 2025. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06431932

  7. ClinicalTrials.gov. Fisetin to Reduce Senescence and Mobility Impairment. NCT06399809. Updated June 2024. Accessed September 24, 2025. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06399809

  8. Palmer AK, Xu M, Zhu Y, et al. Targeting senescent cells alleviates obesity-induced metabolic dysfunction. Aging Cell. 2019;18(3):e12950. doi:10.1111/acel.12950

ANGELA CHANNELL
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