Selenium

Complete Ingredient Profile
Ingredient Name & Common Synonyms
Primary Name: Selenium (as Selenomethionine)
Common Synonyms: Organic selenium, L-Selenomethionine, Selenium yeast
Chemical Classification: Essential trace mineral, Organoselenium compound
Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₁NO₂Se
Overview
Botanical Family: Naturally occurring in Brassicaceae (garlic, onions), Asteraceae (sunflower), Poaceae (grains)
Primary Origin: Brazil nuts, seafood, garlic, onions, selenium-rich soils, yeast fermentation
Extraction Method: Biosynthesis through selenium-enriched yeast fermentation or chemical synthesis
Molecular Structure: Selenium replacing sulfur in methionine amino acid structure
Appearance: White to off-white powder, odorless with mild characteristic taste
Benefits & Uses
For Women's Hormonal Health:
- Thyroid Function: Selenium is essential for thyroid hormone conversion and metabolism, crucial for women with thyroid disorders like Hashimoto's
- Antioxidant Protection: Protects reproductive organs from oxidative stress and supports healthy hormone production
- Autoimmune Support: Helps modulate immune function and reduce inflammation in autoimmune conditions affecting hormones
Primary Health Benefits:
- Antioxidant Protection: Essential component of glutathione peroxidase, the body's primary antioxidant enzyme system
- Thyroid Function: Required for the conversion of T4 to active T3 thyroid hormone and thyroid metabolism regulation
- Immune Support: Supports proper immune system response, function, and inflammatory balance
- Cellular Protection: Protects cells from oxidative damage, DNA damage, and free radical formation
Mechanism of Action:
- Enzyme Component: Essential component of selenoproteins and antioxidant enzyme systems
- Thyroid Regulation: Required for deiodinase enzymes that regulate thyroid hormone conversion
- Immune Modulation: Influences immune cell function, inflammatory responses, and cytokine production
- Antioxidant Defense: Primary component of glutathione peroxidase, protecting against oxidative stress
Safety & Warnings
General Safety Profile:
Selenium is safe when taken within recommended ranges. Our 100µg dose provides optimal antioxidant support while remaining well below toxicity levels.
Dosage Safety:
- Standard Dosage: 55µg daily recommended for adults
- Orbelli Dosage: 100µg per serving provides 182% of the daily value for therapeutic benefits
- Maximum Safe Dose: Up to 400µg daily is considered the upper limit for long-term use
Potential Side Effects:
- High Dose Effects: Doses above 900µg daily may cause selenosis (hair loss, nail changes)
- Garlic Odor: Excessive intake may cause garlic-like breath odor
- Digestive Effects: High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Throat Irritation: May cause mild throat irritation in some individuals - this is normal and typically resolves quickly
Important Warnings:
Thyroid Conditions: Consult a healthcare provider if taking thyroid medications
Autoimmune Conditions: May affect the immune system; consult a provider if autoimmune conditions are present
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Generally safe at recommended doses
Geographic Variations: Selenium soil content varies by region
Recommended Patch-Test Instructions:
Not applicable for oral supplements. For topical applications containing selenium, perform a 48-hour patch test on the inner forearm.
Formulation Tips
Physical Properties:
- pH Range: 6.0-7.0 (neutral in aqueous solution)
- Solubility: Moderately soluble in water, enhanced by organic form
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions, light-stable
- Bioavailability: Superior absorption compared to inorganic selenium forms
Optimal Dosing:
- Therapeutic Range: 100-200µg daily for antioxidant support
- Orbelli Formula: 100µg per serving (optimal therapeutic dose)
- Bioavailability: High bioavailability due to the organic selenomethionine form
- Timing: Can be taken with or without food
Pairing Suggestions:
- Synergistic with: Vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc for enhanced antioxidant activity
- Compatible with: Most vitamins and minerals
- Enhanced by: Other antioxidants for comprehensive cellular protection
- Best taken: With antioxidant nutrients for synergistic benefits
Scientific References
- Selenium - Health Professional Fact Sheet - NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, 2024
- Selenium and Selenoproteins in Human Health - PMC, 2012
- Vitamin E-Selenium-Folic Acid in Reproductive Health - PubMed, 2019
- The Role of Selenium in Thyroid Function - Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University
Related Orbelli Products
- Women's Hormonal Balance - Features 100µg Selenium for antioxidant protection and thyroid support
- Synergistically combined with zinc and other essential trace minerals
- Additional product links to be added
Last updated: August 2025 | This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.









