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Separation and identification of phytoestrogenic compounds isolated from bourbon
E R Rosenblum1, D H Van Thiel, I M Campbell
1University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA.
Alcoholic beverages may contain phytoestrogens, plant compounds with estrogenic activity. This study identified biochanin A and beta-sitosterol in bourbon, suggesting a potential link to feminization in male alcoholics.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Phytochemistry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Plant metabolites are known to possess estrogenic properties.
- Alcoholic beverages are often derived from plants with demonstrated estrogenic activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of estrogenically active substances in alcoholic beverages.
- To evaluate the hypothesis that phytoestrogens in alcohol contribute to observed health effects.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of compounds from bourbon.
- Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for identification of phytoestrogens.
Main Results:
- Identification of two phytoestrogens, biochanin A and beta-sitosterol, in bourbon extracts.
- Confirmation of estrogenic activity in plant-derived alcoholic beverages.
Conclusions:
- Phytoestrogens are present in bourbon.
- The consumption of alcoholic beverages containing biologically active phytoestrogens may contribute to feminization observed in chronic male alcoholics with liver disease.
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