Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) Bulk Powder is a crystalline powder that ranges in color from white to pale yellow. Its melting point ranges from 96 to 99°C, and its molecular weight is 147.18 g/mol. I3C is soluble in organic solvents such ethanol, methanol, and dimethyl sulfoxide but is only weakly soluble in water (DMSO).
Indole-3-carbinol vs dim: What’s the difference between DIM and I3C?
Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a hormone that influences estrogen metabolism and balance in the body. It can alter the activity of enzymes involved in estrogen metabolism, leading to changes in the production and breakdown of estrogen metabolites. I3C may also affect estrogen receptor activity, exerting both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects depending on factors like concentration and tissue type. It promotes the formation of favorable estrogen metabolites, such as 2-hydroxyestrone, which may protect against estrogen-related health conditions and inhibit the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors.
Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is generally considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate amounts through dietary sources or as a supplement.
Cruciferous vegetables are the primary dietary sources of indole-3-carbinol (I3C). Some of the cruciferous vegetables that are highest in I3C include:
Broccoli: Broccoli is one of the richest sources of indole-3-carbinol. Both the florets and stems contain significant amounts of this compound.
Cabbage: All varieties of cabbage, including green cabbage, red cabbage, and Savoy cabbage, contain indole-3-carbinol.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower is another cruciferous vegetable that provides a good amount of indole-3-carbinol.
Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are dense with indole-3-carbinol, making them an excellent addition to your diet for this compound.
Kale: Kale, a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable, contains indole-3-carbinol along with other beneficial nutrients.
Bok Choy: Bok choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, is rich in indole-3-carbinol and is commonly used in Asian cuisines.
Collard Greens: Collard greens are a good source of indole-3-carbinol and are often used in Southern cooking.
Watercress: Watercress, a peppery-tasting leafy green, is another vegetable that contains indole-3-carbinol.
I3C dosage varies based on age, weight, health, and supplementation purpose. There’s no FDA-established standard daily allowance, but typical doses range from 100-400 mg for adults in research studies and supplements.
Production Process for Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C)
Extraction from Cruciferous Vegetables:
• Selection and harvesting of vegetables containing glucobrassicin, precursor to I3C.
• Extraction techniques include solvent extraction or steam distillation.
• Crude extract containing I3C is purified to remove impurities.
• Isolation of I3C from the purified extract is done using techniques like solvent evaporation or recrystallization.
Chemical Synthesis:
• Starts with readily available starting materials like indole or its derivatives.
• Several chemical reactions are involved, including condensation of indole with formaldehyde and subsequent reaction with a nucleophile.
• Crude reaction mixture containing I3C is purified to remove impurities and byproducts.
I3C Analysis Methods
• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): Determines purity and quantifies concentration of indole-3-carbinol. Separates components based on stationary and mobile phase interactions.
• Gas Chromatography (GC): Analyzes indole-3-carbinol and its metabolites, especially in complex matrices like biological samples. Separates compounds based on volatility and stationary phase interactions.
• Mass Spectrometry (MS): Accurately identifies and quantifies indole-3-carbinol and its metabolites. Provides information about molecular weight and structure.
• Infrared Spectroscopy (IR): Qualitatively identifies indole-3-carbinol by analyzing molecular vibrations. Confirms presence of specific functional groups.
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy: Provides detailed information about chemical structure and atom connectivity.
• Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC): Quick and simple technique for qualitative analysis of indole-3-carbinol and impurities.
• Titration Methods: Determines specific parameters like acidity or basicity of indole-3-carbinol solutions.
Indole-3-Carbinol Specifications:
• Purity: Typically 98% pure or higher for most applications.
• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder.
• Melting Point: 96-97°C.
• Solubility: Soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, methanol, and DMSO.
• Identification: Uses analytical methods like IR, NMR, or MS.
• Residual Solvents: Includes limits for methylene chloride.
• Heavy Metals: Includes limits for lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium.
• Microbial Limits: Includes total aerobic microbial count, yeast, mold, and specific pathogens.
Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a compound naturally found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale.
DIM (Diindolylmethane) and I3C (Indole-3-carbinol) are compounds found in cruciferous vegetables, known for their health benefits, particularly in hormone metabolism. I3C is a phytochemical found naturally in cruciferous vegetables and is a precursor to DIM, which is metabolized in the body to produce DIM and other metabolites. DIM, a metabolite of I3C, is formed through the acid-catalyzed condensation of two molecules of I3C. I3C is metabolized in the stomach and liver to produce various metabolites, including DIM. DIM is one of the primary metabolites of I3C and can be further metabolized to other compounds. I3C is known for its modulation of estrogen metabolism and activity, while DIM is studied for its potential anti-cancer properties. Both compounds are available as dietary supplements, supporting hormone balance and overall health.