Sulforaphane (Broccoli Seed Extract with Myrosinase)
Also known as: glucoraphanin, broccoli seed extract, broccoli sprout extract, SGS, sulforaphane glucosinolate, Avmacol, BroccoRaphanin
Sulforaphane is the isothiocyanate formed when glucoraphanin from broccoli seeds or sprouts meets the enzyme myrosinase. Because sulforaphane itself is unstable, supplements deliver glucoraphanin-rich broccoli seed extract, ideally with active myrosinase so conversion does not depend on gut bacteria. It is studied for Nrf2 activation and detoxification enzyme induction, and broccoli sprout extract has been tested for fasting glucose in prediabetes. It appears in liver, detox, and cellular-defense formulas.
Research summary
Sulforaphane activates the Nrf2 pathway, upregulating phase II detoxification and antioxidant enzymes.
Dosage
Daily amounts, of extract.
| Lowest studied | Typical range | Highest studied | Upper limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 100–400 mg | — | — |
Dose is expressed as broccoli seed extract; 100–400 mg of a 10–13% glucoraphanin extract delivers roughly 20–40 mg glucoraphanin. Co-formulating active myrosinase raises sulforaphane yield three- to four-fold compared with glucoraphanin alone. Take on an empty stomach or with light food; avoid hot beverages, which inactivate myrosinase.
Standardization: ≥10% glucoraphanin (some grades 13%) with active myrosinase (from mustard seed or broccoli)
Source material: broccoli (Brassica oleracea) seed extract
Format suitability
- Capsule
- Powder
- Tablet
- Softgel
- Gummy
- Liquid
Myrosinase is heat- and moisture-sensitive; use capsules or cold-processed powders and avoid tableting heat and gummy cooking. Sulfurous flavor.
Formulation notes
Keep separated from moisture and heat; myrosinase can be inactivated by high-temperature processes. Mildly increases GI gas in some users.
Sources
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