Introduction
Indole-3-carbinol is a compound found in broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. It can be taken by eating these vegetables or as a pill. Indole-3-carbinol has been used to lower signs of cancer in blood and urine.
Dosages
200 to 400 milligrams once daily
What Research Shows
Not Enough Data to Assess
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.
Safety Notes
It is likely safe to take indole-3-carbinol in small doses for a short time. C2 Nausea and imbalance may occur with high doses. C1 Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period. It is also not known whether it is safe to take by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.
References
REFA Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
REFA1 Bell MC, Crowley-Nowick P, et al. Placebo-controlled trial of indole-3-carbinol in the treatment of CIN. Gynecol Oncol. 2000 Aug;78(2):123-129.
REFB Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia
REFB1 Naik R, Nixon S, et al. A randomized phase II trial of indole-3-carbinol in the treatment of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia. Int J Gynecol Cancer. 2006 Mar-Apr;16(2):786-790.
REFC Safety
REFC1 Indole-3-carbinol. Monograph. Altern Med Rev. 2005 Dec;10(4):337-342.
REFC2 Licznerska B, Baer-Dubowska W. Indole-3-Carbinol and Its Role in Chronic Diseases. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2016;928:131-154.