Introduction: Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by pruritus, erythema, and impaired barrier function. Conventional treatments such as corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, and biologics provide symptom relief but are often limited by side effects, relapse, or cost. Apigenin, a dietary flavone with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial properties, has emerged as a potential therapeutic alternative for AD management. Methods: A systematic narrative review of 48 peer-reviewed studies published between 20010 and 2025 was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies, along with early-phase clinical investigations, were analyzed to evaluate therapeutic efficacy, mechanistic pathways, and the impact of nanotechnology-based delivery systems on apigenin’s performance. Results: Preclinical findings demonstrate that apigenin alleviates AD-like pathology by suppressing Th2 cytokine signaling, lowering serum IgE levels, stabilizing mast cell activity, and restoring barrier proteins such as filaggrin. Antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms further supports its therapeutic role. carriers including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, and polymer-lipid hybrids significantly improve solubility, skin penetration, and pharmacokinetics. Early-phase clinical trials, particularly with apigenin-rich chamomile extracts, report reductions in erythema, pruritus, and inflammatory markers. Discussion: Apigenin offers a multifaceted therapeutic approach by targeting immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, microbial colonization, and barrier dysfunction in AD. Nanotechnological strategies overcome pharmacokinetic limitations, enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Despite encouraging preclinical and preliminary clinical outcomes, gaps remain in long-term safety, dose optimization, and large-scale validation. Conclusion: Apigenin represents a promising natural therapeutic candidate for AD. Its clinical translation may be accelerated through nanotechnology-based delivery systems, although robust randomized controlled trials are essential to establish its long-term efficacy and safety
Walia et al. (Mon,) studied this question.