Indole-3-carbinol

Table of Contents

Other names

I3C
Cruciferous Compound
Brassica-Derived Indole

Synopsis

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower. It is formed when the vegetable's precursor compound, glucobrassicin, is broken down during chopping, chewing, or digestion. In the acidic environment of the stomach, I3C further converts into a variety of biologically active compounds, the most studied of which is 3,3'-diindolylmethane (DIM).

I3C is widely researched for its role in hormone metabolism, cancer prevention, and detoxification support. It is particularly known for modulating estrogen metabolism, encouraging the body to shift from more harmful estrogen metabolites (like 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone) to protective ones (such as 2-hydroxyestrone), which may help reduce the risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, including breast, cervical, and prostate cancers.

Additionally, I3C exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects. It promotes cell cycle regulation and apoptosis in abnormal cells and may support liver detoxification pathways, especially Phase I and Phase II enzyme activity, aiding the breakdown of hormones and environmental toxins.

It is typically taken as a dietary supplement, either alone or combined with DIM, especially in protocols for hormonal balance, fibrocystic breast conditions, endometriosis, HPV support, and estrogen-dominant states.

Historical Use
Though indole-3-carbinol itself is a modern isolate, its dietary source—cruciferous vegetables—has been consumed and valued for health benefits for thousands of years. Traditional diets across Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean have long included these vegetables for their digestive, cleansing, and protective effects.

In modern times, scientific interest in crucifers and their compounds grew with epidemiological studies linking high cruciferous vegetable intake to reduced cancer incidence. This led to the isolation and research of I3C and its metabolites starting in the 1970s and 1980s.

Today, I3C is considered a functional nutrient that bridges dietary prevention and therapeutic support, particularly in hormonal health, oncology, and detoxification pathways, offering a concentrated way to harness the benefits of a plant family long known for its healing potential.

Body Systems

Breasts (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Prostate (Traditional)
Estrogen (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)