IP6 inositol, or inositol hexaphosphate, is a compound that is found naturally in the hulls of grains, many cereals, beans, legumes, seeds, oils, nuts and more. It is a phosphorylated form of inositol, a naturally-occurring carbohydrate.
Besides its bioavailability from food sources, IP6 Inositol is available as a supplement; offering various health benefits and little to no toxicity. IP6 capsules and powder are used for a variety of reasons including antioxidant support, improved regulation of insulin and certain hormones, as well as improved mood control.
IP6 is currently being researched for its anticancer capacities, as it has been shown in several studies to prevent cancer from developing in lab animals. It is also reported to stop the progression of tumor development, often returning cancerous cells back into their normal phenotypic forms.
Although IP6 Inositol has been the subject of animal trails since 1975, there have never been any official human trials conducted concerning its anticancer properties. For this reason, clinical use is limited as an cancer treatment.



- Supports brain & liver health
- Involved in mood regulation & nerve signalling
- Improves insulin sensitivity for PCOS, fertility & weight loss
Roles of IP6 Inositol
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While no human-based clinical trials have been conducted addressing the anticancer abilities of inositol hexaphosphate, there have been many studies conducted for its other natural health benefits.
In various research studies, IP6 has been shown to be effective for the following:
- Targeting cell cycle progression and survival/mitogenic signaling in cancerous prostate cells
- Targeting molecular events that are correlated with angiogenesis (developing new blood vessels)
- Inhibiting the logarithmic growth of mesenchymal tumors (rhabdomyosarcoma) in vitro/in vivo
- Increasing the abundance of cellular cytoplasm
- Inhibiting the replication of HIV-1 in mononuclear cells
- Stopping the crystallization of calcium oxalate which causes kidney stone formation
- Providing hypolipidemic action to emulsify fats, effectively lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
- Protecting the liver from developing elevated hepatic lipogenesis (fatty liver disease)
IP6 Inositol Uses as an Antioxidant
Inositol hexaphosphate may possibly be effective at reverting cancerous cells to their normal cellular phenotypes. This happens by actions that reduce cell proliferation as well as increasing the differentiation between existing malignant cells.
Oral IP6 supplements have been shown to be rapidly absorbed intracellular, leaving behind dephosphorylated versions of the “lesser” inositol phosphates, including inositol pentakisphosphate, an important secondary neurotransmission messenger.
These dephosphorylated inositol phosphates are also effective at disrupting the cell signaling efficiency of cancerous cells.
IP6 also demonstrates strong antioxidant properties and may be able to boost immune system functioning. This is another key factor for preventing cancer development. Antioxidants destroy free radicals that may be associated with increased risk of cancer as well as speeding up the aging process.
IP6 Inositol has been further shown in lab and animal trials to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy as well as helping to control the metastasis of tumors.
In lab rats, inositol hexaphosphate (IP6 inositol) has been shown to inhibit the in vitro aggregation of blood platelets. Its metabolism is also imperative for proper cellular “housekeeping”. IP6 is necessary for storing myo inositol, phosphate and several minerals including calcium. It acts as a catalyst in ATP regeneration, is instrumental in RNA exporting – and is required for DNA repair.
Taking an inositol supplement daily may further support these actions of this important nutrient. Research on IP6 has been very promising so far, however more research is still needed, especially large-scale human trials. At this time the FDA has not approved Inositol or IP6 as drugs to prevent or treat any conditions, and these compounds are available as dietary supplements only.
IP6 Inositol Side Effects and Safety
Inositol is found in every DNA-based cellular structure known. In fact, it is inositol that provides cells with their structure and strength by accommodating the formation of the phospholipid bilayers which are used to form cell membrane.
DNA-based cells are called eukaryotes. Eukaryotes include humans, lesser animals, algae and plants. All eukaryotic cells contain inositol.
Because all eukaryotic cells contain inositol naturally, it follows that the human body is very tolerant of IP6 inositol supplementation. All forms of inositol, when taken as supplements, present very few negative side effects whatsoever.
When any side effects are noted, they are generally mild and pass quickly. Most of these side effects are related to digestion of high amounts of IP6 powder. Even at therapeutic doses of 6 grams daily and more, the only side effects recorded in some trials were headaches, stomach upset, dizziness and vomiting.
Similarly, because IP6 inositol is found naturally in a variety of food sources, there are no reported food interactions to be weary of. There are some drug and supplement contraindications to be aware of though.
IP6 should not be taken together with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, supplements, or herbs due to a chance of increased bleeding. Interactions may also exist with calcium, iron, and zinc.
Pregnant women and those nursing should always consult with their doctors before supplementing with inositol hexaphosphate. Also, those who are scheduled for any surgical procedures in the near future should discontinue IP6 supplementation at least 2 weeks before the procedures are scheduled.
It is always advisable to consult with your health professional or doctor before beginning to take IP6 inositol or any other new supplement to determine the best dosage for your needs and any possible interactions.
Article last updated on: May 12th, 2018 by Nootriment