Sulforaphane

Sulforaphane is a compound that was identified in broccoli sprouts by scientists at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD.¹

Where is it found?

Sulforaphane is found in highest concentrations in broccoli sprouts, but it is also found in mature broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage, and kale.

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

Science Ratings	Health Concerns
	Cancer (risk reduction)
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For a herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Who is likely to be deficient?

Sulforaphane is not an essential nutrient, and thus no deficiency state exists.

How much is usually taken?

The optimal level of intake is not known, but some doctors recommend 200 to 400 mcg of sulforaphane daily from broccoli-sprout extracts.

Are there any side effects or interactions?

No side effects or drug interactions have been reported, although sulforaphane and dietary consumption of cruciferous vegetables does interact with drug detoxifying enzymes.² People taking prescription drugs should therefore consult a doctor before taking sulforaphane or broccoli-sprout extracts.

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

References

1. Zhang Y, Talalay P, Cho CG, Posner GH. A major inducer of anticarcinogenic protective enzymes from broccoli: isolation and elucidation of structure. Proc Natl Acad Sci 1992;89:2399–403.

2. Kall MA, Vang O, Clausen J. Effects of dietary broccoli on human drug metabolising activity. Cancer Lett 1997;114:169–70.

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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 chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.