Extract & Compound · Compound

Sulforaphane

Provisional Strong Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 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

Sulforaphane is a potent isothiocyanate compound derived from cruciferous vegetables that activates the Nrf2 pathway. It enhances cellular detoxification through phase II enzyme induction and demonstrates significant anti-cancer properties via apoptosis induction.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordsulforaphane benefits

Sulforaphane close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, nrf2 activation, detoxification

Sulforaphane — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Sulforaphane supports detoxification by activating phase II enzymes, enhancing the body's ability to neutralize harmful toxins. This process is crucial for maintaining optimal liver function. - It exhibits anti-cancer properties by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, reducing tumor growth. Studies show a 30% reduction in tumor size in animal models. - Sulforaphane boosts brain health by promoting the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports cognitive function and memory. - It has anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-kB, a protein complex that plays a role in inflammatory responses, thus reducing chronic inflammation. - Sulforaphane supports cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing oxidative stress, which can lower the risk of heart disease. - It enhances skin health by protecting against UV-induced damage, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion. - Sulforaphane aids in weight management by activating AMPK, an enzyme that boosts metabolism and fat burning.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Sulforaphane is an isothiocyanate derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. It is extracted through the enzymatic conversion of glucoraphanin by myrosinase.

“Sulforaphane was identified in the 1990s as a key compound in broccoli with potential health benefits, leading to increased interest in cruciferous vegetables.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Sulforaphane has been extensively studied in both in vitro and human trials for its role in cancer prevention and detoxification. Its anti-inflammatory effects are well-documented.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

- Potent isothiocyanate with detoxifying properties. - Found in high concentrations in broccoli sprouts. - Activates cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Sulforaphane activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) transcription factor, which upregulates antioxidant response elements (ARE). This leads to increased production of phase II detoxification enzymes including glutathione S-transferase, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase, and heme oxygenase-1. Additionally, sulforaphane inhibits histone deacetylases (HDACs) and modulates p53 tumor suppressor pathways to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies with sulforaphane doses of 200-400 mcg daily for 2-12 weeks show significant increases in phase II enzyme activity and improved antioxidant status. A randomized controlled trial with 200 participants demonstrated 58% reduction in Helicobacter pylori colonization after 8 weeks. Cancer prevention studies are primarily observational, showing 20-50% reduced risk with high cruciferous vegetable intake, though direct supplementation trials remain limited.

Also Known As

1-isothiocyanato-4-methylsulfinylbutaneSFN4-methylsulfinylbutyl isothiocyanatebroccoli extract compoundglucoraphanin metabolitephase II enzyme inducer

Browse All Ingredients More Compound About the Encyclopedia

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.

From the Hermetica Research Desk

Research updates — and 25% off your first order

Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Educational content only — not medical advice.