Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a natural compound that is found in the creosote bush (Larrea tridentata). It is a lignan, which is a type of plant compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. NDGA has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including:

Antioxidant activity: NDGA is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage DNA, proteins, and other cellular components. NDGA can help to neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing damage.

Anti-inflammatory activity: NDGA has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is a major underlying factor in many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. NDGA can help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of these diseases.

Anti-cancer activity: NDGA has been shown to have anti-cancer properties in animal studies. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce cell death in cancer cells. However, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of NDGA in humans.

Other potential benefits: NDGA has also been shown to have other potential health benefits, such as:

Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: NDGA may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood flow.

Improved blood sugar control: NDGA may help to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.

Reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases: NDGA may help to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

However, it is important to note that NDGA is not a cure for any disease. It is only a dietary supplement that may help to improve symptoms or reduce the risk of certain diseases. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking NDGA, especially if you have any health conditions.

NDGA is available as a dietary supplement in capsule or powder form. The recommended dosage is typically 100-200 mg per day.

NDGA is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, high doses of NDGA can cause side effects, such as:

Flushing: NDGA can cause a flushing sensation in the face and neck. This is due to the dilation of blood vessels in the skin.
Diarrhea: NDGA can cause diarrhea in some people.
Nausea and vomiting: NDGA can cause nausea and vomiting in some people.
Liver damage: High doses of NDGA can cause liver damage.

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) is a phenolic lignan obtained from Larrea tridentata, the creosote bush found in Mexico and USA deserts, that has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of numerous diseases such as cancer, renal, cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological disorders, and even aging.

NDGA presents two catechol rings that confer a very potent antioxidant activity by scavenging oxygen free radicals and this may explain part of its therapeutic action. Additional effects include inhibition of lipoxygenases (LOXs) and activation of signaling pathways that impinge on the transcription factor Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-related Factor (NRF2). On the other hand, the oxidation of the catechols to the corresponding quinones my elicit alterations in proteins and DNA that raise safety concerns.

Nordihydroguaiaretic acid and aspirin increase lifespan of genetically heterogeneous male mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18631321/