Quick Summary

Wasabi (Eutrema japonicum) is a traditional Japanese spice recognized mainly for its bioactive compound 6-methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC). It has been studied for potential benefits related to cognitive function, management of metabolic syndrome, antimicrobial activity, and cancer prevention, primarily due to the presence of glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. However, human clinical evidence remains limited, and further research is recommended.

What is It?

Wasabi is a plant native to Japan, belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is best known as a pungent condiment served with sushi and other Japanese dishes. The rhizome contains compounds believed to have biological activity, including isothiocyanates such as 6-MSITC, which contribute to its characteristic heat and possible health effects.

Traditional Uses

Traditionally, wasabi has been used as a culinary spice in Japanese cuisine and historically thought to possess antimicrobial properties that help preserve food and reduce bacterial infections. It has also been utilized in folk remedies, though documented medicinal use is limited.

Active Compounds

  • 6-Methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC)
  • Glucosinolates (precursors of isothiocyanates)
  • Other sulfur-containing phytochemicals characteristic of the Brassicaceae family

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Cognitive function enhancement in older adults

    Moderate evidence – A double-blinded randomized controlled trial reported improved working and episodic memory following 12 weeks of 6-MSITC supplementation in healthy adults aged 60 and above compared to placebo. No significant effects were found on other cognitive areas.
    [1]
  • Support for managing metabolic syndrome

    Limited evidence – Wasabi and similar natural products may have beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome components such as blood sugar, blood pressure, lipid profiles, obesity, and abnormal cholesterol and triglycerides. However, evidence is generalized for natural products and lacks wasabi-specific clinical trials.
    [2]
  • Potential antimicrobial and anticancer properties

    Preclinical evidence – In vitro and animal studies suggest glucosinolates in wasabi and related plants exhibit antimicrobial activity against various pathogens and may exert anticancer effects through antioxidant enzyme induction and pathway modulation. No direct human clinical evidence specific to wasabi currently exists.
    [3],
    [4],
    [5]

Side Effects

No documented adverse effects specific to wasabi were found in clinical trials or systematic reviews. The only human study with 6-MSITC supplementation reported no significant adverse effects over 12 weeks. Animal and in vitro data suggest biological activity but do not provide clear human safety data.

Drug Interactions

No evidence or reports currently exist regarding interactions between wasabi or its constituents and pharmaceutical drugs.

Who Should Avoid It?

There are no documented contraindications specific to wasabi in the literature. However, due to limited safety data, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals before consuming wasabi supplements or high doses.

Evidence Limitations

  • Most evidence is derived from preclinical, in vitro, or animal studies, with few human clinical trials available.
  • The only identified human randomized controlled trial focused on cognitive effects in healthy older adults, limiting generalizability.
  • Lack of comprehensive clinical safety, adverse effect, drug interaction, or contraindication data specific to wasabi in humans.
  • Further rigorous, placebo-controlled clinical trials are required to confirm efficacy and safety for various uses.

References

  1. Benefits of Wasabi Supplements with 6-MSITC (6-Methylsulfinyl Hexyl Isothiocyanate) on Memory Functioning in Healthy Adults Aged 60 Years and Older: Evidence from a Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients, 2023.
  2. Natural products for managing metabolic syndrome: a scoping review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024.
  3. The Glucosinolates: A Sulphur Glucoside Family of Mustard Anti-Tumour and Antimicrobial Phytochemicals of Potential Therapeutic Application. Biomedicines, 2019.
  4. An Overview of the Spices Used for the Prevention and Potential Treatment of Gastric Cancer. Cancers, 2024.
  5. Natural Compounds With Antimicrobial and Antiviral Effect and Nanocarriers Used for Their Transportation. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2021.

Last Reviewed

June 2024

Informational Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Wasabi supplements or extracts should not replace medical treatment. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications.