Indole-3-Carbinol

Alternative Medicine
The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine. For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the Healthwise Knowledgebase.

Indole-3-carbinol is one of the major anticancer substances found in cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables. It is a member of the class of sulfur-containing chemicals called glucosinolates.¹ It is formed from parent compounds whenever cruciferous vegetables are crushed or cooked.^2,³

Where is it found?

Indole-3-carbinol is found in highest concentrations in broccoli, but is also found in other cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage, and kale.

Health Concerns

Indole-3-carbinol has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Cancer prevention (cervical cancer)
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Deficiency Symptoms

Who is likely to be deficient?

As indole-3-carbinol is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.

Dosage

How much is usually taken?

Based upon preliminary studies it is estimated that the minimum amount required for the prevention of breast cancer is 300 to 400 mg daily.⁴

Side Effects

Are there any side effects or interactions?

No side effects from indole-3-carbinol have been reported.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with indole-3-carbinol.

References

Stoewsand GS. Bioactive organosulfur phytochemicals in Brassica oleracea vegetables-a review. Food Chem Toxicol 1995;33:537-43.
Broadbent TA, Broadbent HS. The chemistry and pharmacology of indole-3-carbinol (indole-3-methanol) and 3-(methoxymethyl)indole. [Part I]. Curr Med Chem 1998;5:337-52.
Broadbent TA, Broadbent HS. The chemistry and pharmacology of indole-3-carbinol (indole-3-methanol) and 3-(methoxymethyl)indole. [Part II]. Curr Med Chem 1998;5:469-91.
Wong GY, Bradlow L, Sepkovic D, et al. Dose-ranging study of indole-3-carbinol for breast cancer prevention. J Cell Biochem Suppl 1997;28-29:111-6.

Last Review: 09-01-2007

Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.

Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.

The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2008.

Go to top of page

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.