Sulforaphane (Broccoli Seed Extract) vs Wobenzym (Systemic Enzyme Complex)

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

Sulforaphane (Broccoli Seed Extract)Wobenzym (Systemic Enzyme Complex)
CategorySupplementsSupplements
Standard Dose10-30mg sulforaphane daily (equivalent to ~100-200mg broccoli seed extract standardized to glucoraphanin + myrosinase)
TimingOn empty stomach or with light meal. Myrosinase enzyme required for conversion from glucoraphanin — ensure supplement contains it or add mustard seed powder.
Cycle Durationongoing
Evidence Levelstrong_humanModerate

Mechanism

Sulforaphane is the most potent natural activator of the Nrf2-ARE (antioxidant response element) pathway. It modifies Keap1 cysteine residues, releasing Nrf2 to translocate to the nucleus and upregulate >200 cytoprotective genes including NQO1, glutathione S-transferases, heme oxygenase-1, and UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (Phase II detox enzymes). It also inhibits HDAC activity (epigenetic modification), induces Phase II/III xenobiotic metabolism, and suppresses NF-kB inflammatory signaling.

Standard Dosing

10-30mg sulforaphane daily (equivalent to ~100-200mg broccoli seed extract standardized to glucoraphanin + myrosinase)

Timing

On empty stomach or with light meal. Myrosinase enzyme required for conversion from glucoraphanin — ensure supplement contains it or add mustard seed powder.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

  • Gas/bloating
  • Mild GI discomfort
  • Thyroid concerns at very high doses in iodine-depleted individuals

Contraindications

  • Hypothyroidism with iodine deficiency (goitrogenic potential)
  • Pregnancy (insufficient high-dose data)

Best Stacking Partners

NACDIMCalcium D-GlucarateCurcumin

Mechanism

Combination of bromelain, papain, trypsin, chymotrypsin, and pancreatin. Systemic enzyme therapy that degrades circulating immune complexes, reduces fibrin deposition, modulates cytokines (IL-6, TNF-alpha), and supports recovery from injury, surgery, and chronic inflammation.

Contraindications

  • Bleeding disorders
  • Pre-surgery
  • Severe liver or kidney disease

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