Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) is the richest source of the lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG). SDG is the principal dietary lignan present in flaxseed, which occurs as a component of a linear ester-linked complex. Research suggests that SDG metabolites may provide health benefits due to their antioxidant activity and their ability to induce phase 2 proteins in the liver.
Lignans and flaxseeds have shown improvements in cognition and bone health, while also possibly protecting against breast cancer. Specifically, high dietary lignan intake has been associated with better performance in processing capacity, processing speed and executive function, while the alpha-linolenic acid (an omega fatty acid) content of flaxseeds are theorized to benefit bone health by decreasing hormones responsible for redness, pain and swelling. The suggested protective effect of lignans on breast cancer has only been observed in dietary observational analysis and therefore the proposed benefit is plausible but far from definitive
Technical insights:
- Country of origin: China
- part used: Linum usitatissimum seed
- Solvent for extraction: Water/ethanol
- Stored form: Fine powder