The Uses of Diindolylmethane

Although its cumbersome name sounds clinical, diindolylmethane is a natural substance found in cruciferous vegetables. Diindolylmethane, or DIM, forms during the breakdown of glucobrassica in these vegetables. Consuming DIM promotes estrogen metabolism in both women and men. It increases the activity of antioxidants and seems to work against tumor cells, but exactly how DIM does this is still unclear. Still, it is certain that DIM has practical applications for health.

Antiviral

Diindolylmethane has a number of antiviral properties. It is used in the treatment of recurring respiratory papillomatosis caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), and as of September 2010, it is in trials to treat other conditions. DIM seems to be able to modulate the body's immune system, and among its applications, it is sold as an immunity-boosting supplement. Scientists are conducting research to investigate further antiviral and possibly antibacterial uses for diindolylmethane.

Hormone Imbalance

Because diindolylmethane helps the body metabolize estrogen, it can treat some types of hormone imbalance. Hirsutism, a condition involving the growth of dark, coarse hair on women's bodies, may be treated with diindolylmethane in cases caused by an excess of androgens, male sex hormones, in the body. DIM has anti-androgenic effects, and a 120 mg supplement taken daily may help to balance the body's hormones.



DIM may also be used to help treat and relieve symptoms of endometriosis, a condition causing heavy and painful menstrual periods in women. One to two capsules of a DIM supplement per day helps the body to metabolize estrogen in the most efficient and beneficial way.

Cancer Prevention

While the exact mechanisms of diindolylmethane's cancer-preventing and antioxidant properties are unclear, DIM is a recommended form of treatment in cancer prevention. Eating cruciferous vegetables rich in DIM may help prevent prostate cancer, and studies suggest DIM is useful in preventing cervical cancer as well. Taken in capsules, DIM can prevent the cancer cells from forming.