Diallyl disulfide (DADS) is a naturally occurring organosulfur compound found in plants, especially within the Allium genus. It is a yellowish liquid with a strong garlic odor and is not soluble in water. DADS is a principal component of distilled garlic oil, alongside diallyl trisulfide and diallyl tetrasulfide.
The Primary Source of Diallyl Disulfide
Garlic is the primary natural source of diallyl disulfide. DADS forms when garlic cloves are crushed or chopped, releasing alliinase. This enzyme acts on alliin, a sulfur-containing amino acid in garlic, rapidly forming allicin. Allicin then breaks down into various organosulfur compounds, including DADS. While other allium vegetables like onions and leeks contain related sulfur compounds, garlic is known for its high DADS yield.
Health Benefits of Diallyl Disulfide
Diallyl disulfide exhibits various health-promoting properties that have been investigated in scientific research. It functions as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. This protective effect contributes to maintaining cellular health and reducing oxidative stress within the body.
DADS also demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects. It has been shown to block the NF-κB signaling cascade and quench reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human Barrett’s epithelial cells, indicating its role in mitigating inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions may contribute to its overall beneficial impact on health.
Beyond its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles, DADS shows potential in supporting cardiovascular health. It may contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and supporting healthy cholesterol levels, which are factors in overall heart well-being. Research suggests that garlic’s sulfur compounds, including DADS, can reduce blood pressure and help lower total and LDL cholesterol.
DADS has also been extensively studied for its anti-cancer properties. It can induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in various cancer cell lines, including gastric, breast, and colon cancers. This compound can also inhibit tumor growth by affecting several cellular pathways and activating detoxifying enzymes that target carcinogens. DADS has been observed to reduce cancer cell growth and cause apoptosis in breast cancer cells by acting as a histone deacetylation inhibitor, preventing the loss of an acetyl group from acetylated substrates.
Understanding How Diallyl Disulfide Works
The beneficial effects of diallyl disulfide stem from its interactions with various cellular processes. Its sulfur-containing structure allows it to effectively scavenge free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage. This direct neutralization of free radicals contributes to its antioxidant activity.
DADS also modulates enzyme activity within cells, particularly detoxification enzymes. It can inhibit certain enzymes like cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), which are involved in the metabolism of various compounds, including some carcinogens. This inhibition can reduce the activation of harmful substances in the body.
DADS interacts with cellular signaling pathways, influencing how cells communicate and respond to their environment. For instance, it can affect pathways related to inflammation, cell growth, and programmed cell death. By modulating these pathways, DADS contributes to its observed anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.
Safety Profile and Important Considerations
Diallyl disulfide is safe when consumed in typical dietary amounts through garlic. However, large quantities, especially from concentrated supplements, can cause side effects. These may include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as heartburn or stomach upset, and a noticeable body odor.
DADS also has mild blood-thinning properties, which could interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin, increasing bleeding risk. Therefore, individuals undergoing surgery, pregnant or nursing individuals, and those with bleeding disorders should discuss garlic intake or DADS supplements with a healthcare professional.