Inositol

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Other names for inositol

Myo-Inositol
D-Chiro Inositol
Inositol Powder or Capsules

Synopsis of inositol

Inositol is a naturally occurring carbohydrate-like compound (often referred to as vitamin B8, though it’s not technically a vitamin) found in whole grains, fruits, beans, and organ meats, as well as synthesized in the human body. It plays a crucial role in cellular signaling, fat metabolism, nerve conduction, and hormone regulation, particularly in systems that involve insulin, serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters.

There are nine stereoisomers of inositol, with myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol being the most biologically relevant. These forms are widely used in clinical and functional medicine for their ability to improve insulin sensitivity, mood stability, ovarian function, and metabolic health.

Inositol is best known for its use in:

  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Helps regulate insulin and androgen levels, restore ovulation, and improve fertility
  • Mood and anxiety disorders: Supports serotonin and GABA signaling, helping reduce symptoms of depression, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Metabolic support: Assists in managing blood sugar and lipid levels, especially in those with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome
  • Neurological health: Aids in nerve function and may play a role in supporting cognitive performance and neuropathy

It is commonly taken as a powder, capsule, or tablet, often in daily doses ranging from 500 mg to 4 grams, depending on the condition.

Historical Use
Although not recognized as a vitamin, inositol was first identified in the mid-19th century in muscle tissue, and its name reflects this origin (“inos” is Greek for “muscle”). As nutritional science developed in the 20th century, researchers began to explore its role in lipid metabolism and cellular signaling, especially in the brain and endocrine systems.

In traditional diets, foods naturally rich in inositol—like brown rice, citrus fruits, and legumes—have long been associated with stable energy, mood, and fertility, though the compound itself was not specifically isolated or targeted in historical herbal systems.

In the last two decades, inositol (especially the myo- and D-chiro- forms) has become a cornerstone of evidence-based integrative approaches for reproductive health, mental wellness, and metabolic balance, supported by clinical trials and inclusion in medical guidelines for PCOS and fertility treatment.

Today, inositol is celebrated for its gentle, well-tolerated support of systems impacted by insulin resistance, hormonal imbalance, and neurochemical disruption, making it a versatile and valuable nutraceutical in modern wellness.

Inositol is used for these health conditions

Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Bipolar Mood Disorder (Scientific)
Bulimia (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Scientific)
PMS (general) (Scientific)

inositol is used to support these body systems

Brain (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Ovaries (Scientific)
Reproductive System (Scientific)
Serotonin (Scientific)