Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as watercress, broccoli, and cabbage. Scientific interest in PEITC centers on its chemopreventive properties, particularly regarding colorectal (large intestine/colon) cancer. Multiple preclinical studies have demonstrated that PEITC can inhibit carcinogenesis in the colon by modulating detoxification enzymes, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, suppressing inflammation, and interfering with cancer cell proliferation. For example, animal studies have shown that dietary administration of PEITC reduces the formation of aberrant crypt foci—precursors to colon cancer.

Additionally, PEITC has been found to modulate pathways such as the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway and inhibit histone deacetylases, both of which are relevant to cancer prevention. Epidemiological studies suggest that higher intake of cruciferous vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, although direct human evidence for PEITC supplementation is still emerging. The compound is not traditionally used for colon health in herbal or folk medicine, but its use is increasingly supported by experimental and mechanistic research. Thus, while clinical trials in humans are limited, the scientific rationale for PEITC’s role in supporting colon health is strong, justifying its consideration as a functional ingredient for large intestine support.

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