New Roots Indole-3-Carbinol 150mg - 60 Caps

New Roots Herbal's Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is an isolate derived from the family of vegetable which includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. This organic compound is formed as a result of the action of the enzyme myrosinase with the precursor compound indole-3-glucosinolate within these vegetables upon maceration (crushing). The antioxidant activity of indole-3-carbinol protects cells, including their DNA, from the carcinogenic effects of environmental toxins we are exposed to on a daily basis.

An article published in the Journal of Nutrition in December, 2004, reported a study conducted at Wayne State University in Michigan to have shown I3C to inhibit the growth of prostate cells, along with inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death). I3C triggers a reaction that compromises mitochondrial potential and subsequently contributes to the eradication of harmful cells. Mitochondria are the power plants that provide the energy for every living cell.

Indole-3-Carbinol

What is it?
A substance found in cruciferous (Brassica family) vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, cress, bok choy, broccoli, kale, and similar green leaf vegetables, indole-3-carbinol (I3C) offers powerful antioxidant properties.

It is also known to promote more efficient estrogen metabolism, helping to decrease excess estrogen or prevent estrogens from building up in the body. This is particularly useful for many female concerns that can be estrogen dependent (like some breast, cervical and endometrial), meaning they grow dependent on the amount of (excess) estrogen in the system. Both I3C and DIM are being examined in clinical trials for their treatment of various types of ell growths.

I3C and Lupus (SLE)
There is also some very promising research on the use of I3C for the treatment of Systemic Lupus Erythmatous (SLE or Lupus). Primarily affecting women, Lupus has also been associated with estrogen dominance. It is proposed that I3C can block the development of certain B and T cells of the immune system, which then causes a drop in the auto-antibody production thought to be a major causative factor in the development of Lupus.

I3C and DIM
Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a product of the digestion of I3C in the presence of stomach acid. It has independent metabolic effects as well in both men and women. It may be beneficial to supplement DIM in the place of I3C in people with reduced stomach acid. 

How can I take I3C?
I3C can be consumed in the diet, or found in capsule form, if supplementation is needed. Recent research has suggested a chemopreventative dose of 300mg/day.

Important Information
I3C is considered safe in both food/diet amounts and therapeutic dosages, although high supplementation has caused skin rashes and small increases in liver enzymes, less frequently tremors and nausea. Overuse and/or preventative use of I3C is further ill advised because of its hormone altering effects in normal individuals that can result in systemic hormone dysregulation. For this reason, do not use as a supplement while pregnant or breastfeeding.