Leaf & Herb · Leaf/Green

Mizuna

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica) contains glucosinolates that convert to isothiocyanates, activating the Nrf2 pathway to induce Phase II detoxification enzymes like NQO1 and HO-1. These compounds demonstrate 40-60% NF-κB inhibition in vitro and significant antioxidant activity with DPPH EC50 values of 20-50 μg/mL.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryLeaf & Herb

GroupLeaf/Green

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordwhat is Mizuna

Mizuna — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances liver detoxification

by stimulating enzymatic activity through its glucosinolate content.

Strengthens immune function

with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds.

Supports cardiovascular health

by reducing oxidative stress and regulating blood pressure.

Promotes digestive wellness

with prebiotic fiber that nourishes beneficial gut microbiota.

Contributes to bone

health through its abundance of Vitamin K, aiding calcium absorption.

Provides robust antioxidant

protection via flavonoids, carotenoids, and Vitamin C, combating oxidative stress.

May regulate blood: sugar levels by potentially improving insulin sensitivity

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. japonica) is a cold-tolerant, fast-growing leafy green native to Japan and East Asia. A staple in Japanese cuisine, it thrives in temperate climates and is prized for its feathery leaves and mildly peppery flavor. This nutrient-dense Brassica is valued for its robust nutritional profile, offering significant antioxidant and digestive-supporting benefits.

“Mizuna has been a cornerstone of Japanese agriculture and cuisine for centuries, deeply valued for its nutritional benefits and ease of cultivation. It is traditionally associated with wintertime vitality, digestive balance, and longevity in Japanese food culture. This enduring heritage underscores its role as a revered functional green.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Scientific studies support Mizuna's role in glucosinolate-mediated detoxification, as well as its benefits for cardiovascular, immune, and digestive health. Research highlights its rich profile of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. While widely consumed, further targeted human clinical trials could provide more specific insights into optimal dosages and long-term health outcomes.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate - Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorus - Macronutrients: Dietary Fiber (prebiotic) - Phytochemicals: Glucosinolates (liver detoxification, cellular protection), Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Carotenoids (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory), Chlorophyll

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Glucosinolates in mizuna (45.2 μmol/100g total) hydrolyze to isothiocyanates like 3-butenyl ITC and sulforaphane, which activate the Nrf2 pathway leading to upregulation of antioxidant enzymes HO-1 and NQO1. These compounds inhibit Phase I enzymes (CYP1A) while inducing Phase II detoxification enzymes, reducing carcinogen activation by 40-60% through NF-κB pathway suppression. Flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin glycosides (10-30 mg/100g) modulate PI3K/Akt signaling for anti-inflammatory effects.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human clinical evidence for mizuna is limited to small trials. A 12-week RCT (n=30) found 200g/day mizuna increased plasma lutein by 28% and reduced LDL oxidation by 15%. A crossover study (n=20) showed 100g/day mizuna juice elevated urinary isothiocyanate metabolites 3.2-fold and improved glutathione S-transferase activity by 22%. Meta-analyses suggest Brassica vegetables may reduce colorectal cancer risk by 15-20% at ≥100g/day intake, though mizuna-specific large-scale trials are lacking.

Also Known As

Brassica rapa var. nipposinicaJapanese mustard greensSpider mustardCalifornia peppergrassMizuna kyonaJapanese greens

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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