phytoestrogen

noun

phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen ˌfī-tō-ˈe-strə-jən 

: a chemical compound (such as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties

Examples of phytoestrogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Research cited by Market Reports World found phytoestrogen supplements may deliver only 10% to 20% symptom reduction in some cases, even as more than 79% of peri- and postmenopausal women reported using botanical dietary supplements. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026

The same reporting notes that phytoestrogen supplements may deliver only 10% to 20% symptom reduction in certain use cases a modest and variable payoff that helps explain why women keep experimenting rather than settling on one product. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026

When estrogen levels are low, phytoestrogens can mimic the hormone's effects. — Joy Emeh, Health, 22 June 2026

The plant is popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine because it’s filled with phytoestrogens (thought to support women going through menopause), as well as may promote heart health and reduce inflammation. — Ana Morales, Vogue, 13 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Phytoöstrogen, from phyto- phyto- + Östrogen estrogen

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

phytoestrogen

noun

phy·​to·​es·​tro·​gen -ˈes-trə-jən 

variants or chiefly British phyto-oestrogen

: a chemical compound (as genistein) that occurs naturally in plants and has estrogenic properties