7-hydroxymatairesinol (HMR)
Synopsis
7-hydroxymatairesinol (HMR) is a naturally occurring plant lignan, a type of phytoestrogen known for its ability to weakly mimic or modulate estrogen activity in the body. HMR is primarily found in the heartwood of the Norway spruce (Picea abies) and belongs to a class of polyphenolic compounds with significant antioxidant and hormone-regulating properties. When ingested, HMR is metabolized by intestinal microflora into mammalian lignans such as enterolactone and enterodiol, which circulate in the bloodstream and exert biological effects.
HMR has gained scientific interest for its potential in supporting hormone balance, especially in relation to estrogen-sensitive tissues. It may help modulate estrogen activity without the strong hormonal effects of pharmaceutical estrogens, which has led to interest in its use for managing symptoms associated with menopause, maintaining bone density, and reducing the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast and prostate cancer. In addition, HMR exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to cellular protection and potentially reducing oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases.
There is also growing evidence suggesting HMR may play a role in cardiovascular health, as it appears to positively influence lipid metabolism and vascular function. Some studies suggest it may help maintain a healthy balance of cholesterol and support endothelial health, although more human data is needed to confirm these effects. Because of its natural origin and mild estrogenic profile, HMR is often marketed as a safer alternative to more potent hormone-modulating compounds and is typically consumed in dietary supplements formulated for women’s health, longevity, or general hormone support.
Historical Use:
7-hydroxymatairesinol as an isolated compound has no known use in traditional or historical herbal medicine. It was discovered and studied in the context of modern phytochemistry and nutritional science, particularly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as researchers began isolating specific lignans from plant sources and exploring their biological effects.
However, the plant source of HMR—the Norway spruce—has been used historically in European folk medicine. Resin, bark, and needles from various spruce species were applied in salves, infusions, and poultices for treating respiratory conditions, wounds, inflammation, and infections. While these traditional uses did not explicitly aim to deliver lignans like HMR, the therapeutic benefits observed from spruce extracts may have been partially due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenolic compounds including lignans.
Likewise, the consumption of lignan-rich foods—such as flaxseeds, whole grains, legumes, and vegetables—has a long history in global dietary traditions. While these foods were not specifically valued for their lignan content in antiquity, modern research has revealed that traditional diets high in such plant foods often result in higher levels of beneficial enterolignans in the body, including those derived from HMR.
Today, the scientific isolation and targeted use of 7-hydroxymatairesinol reflect a broader evolution in plant-based health strategies, moving from general dietary and botanical use to precise, compound-specific supplementation. HMR represents a modern application of traditional plant wisdom, channeled through advanced research into phytoestrogens and their effects on long-term health.
Body Systems
Estrogen (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Products containing this ingredient
Metagenics
EstroFactors®
Pure Encapsulations
Women's Nutrients