Broccoli is high in vitamin C and dietary fiber. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and other members of the genus Brassica have been widely regarded as potentially cancer preventative. A compound (DIM) found in broccoli is a potent modulator of the innate immune response system with anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer activity. Broccoli is also an excellent source of the chemical indole-3-carbinol, which boosts DNA repair in cells and appears to block the growth of cancer cells. Broccoli has the highest levels of carotenoids in the brassica family. It is particularly rich in lutein and also provides beta-carotene. Broccoli consumption has also been shown to be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease.

Vegatables from the Brassica oleracea family have been cultivated and consumed by people for thousands of years. broccoli evolved from a wild cabbage plant on the continent of Europe.

Broccoli is used for high cholesterol, fibromyalgia, preventing several types of cancer, and other conditions, there is no strong scientific evidence to support these uses.