Qualitative Analysis of Cruciferous Vegetable Extracts Useful for Estrogen Metabolism for Diindolylmethane (Dim)

Abstract

3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound derived from the digestion of indole-3-carbinol, found in Cruciferous vegetables (Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower,) which promotes Estrogen metabolism in females. It has been known to help in reduction of heavy blood flow during menstruation especially in females with uterine fibroids. Dim-plus a herbal supplement contains Vitamin E, DIM, Phosphatidlycholine, Spinach, Cabbage, and Broccoli powder. The purpose of this research is to extract and identify the compounds present in Broccoli, Spinach and Cabbage obtained in local markets in Lagos, Nigeria and compare it with the reference standard DIM-plus. Identification of compounds qualitatively by TLC showed different Rf values which were compared with the reference to identify compounds with similar Rf values. Extract was also subjected to HPLC analysis to confirm the presence of DIM in the Cruciferous vegetables using Dim-plus® as standard. Based on the TLC and HPLC analysis it was discovered that the common peak which the crude extracts of the vegetables has is DIM. Thus, the vegetable extracts have Diindolylmethane.