The application is in the field of adult neurogenesis and its therapeutic potential. It aims to characterize the activity of apigenin and related compounds on adult neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Apigenin and related compounds are derivatives used in food products. They were administered intraperitoneally and orally in adult rodents and assessed for their activity in promoting the generation of neuronal cells and learning and memory performance. They were also tested on adult rat hippocampal-derived neural progenitor and stem cells to assess their neurogenic property. Apigenin and related compounds stimulate adult neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro, by promoting neuronal differentiation. Apigenin promotes learning and memory performance in the Morris water task. The application claims the use of apigenin and related compounds for stimulating adult neurogenesis and for the treatment of neurological diseases, disorders and injuries, by stimulating the generation of neuronal cells in the adult brain.