Lignans

Table of Contents

Other names

Flaxseed Lignans
Sesamin (from sesame seeds)
HMR Lignan (from Norwegian spruce)

Synopsis

Lignans are a group of polyphenolic compounds found in the cell walls of plants, particularly in seeds, grains, and fibrous vegetables. They belong to a broader class of phytoestrogens—plant compounds with mild estrogen-like activity in the human body. Once ingested, lignans are metabolized by gut microbiota into mammalian lignans, primarily enterodiol and enterolactone, which exert biological effects on hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense, and inflammation regulation.

Flaxseed is by far the richest dietary source of lignans, particularly secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG). Sesame seeds, rye, oat bran, and legumes also contain notable amounts. Lignans have drawn attention for their potential role in hormonal balance, breast and prostate cancer prevention, cardiovascular health, and bone density maintenance, especially in peri- and postmenopausal women. Their weak estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects help modulate estrogen activity depending on the body's hormonal environment.

Additionally, lignans possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to reduced oxidative stress and improved cellular function. They are included in some functional food products, hormonal support supplements, and cardiovascular health formulas.

Historical Use:
While lignans as specific compounds were not identified until the mid-20th century, their sources—particularly flaxseed and sesame—have been consumed and valued medicinally for millennia across many cultures. Ancient civilizations did not know of phytoestrogens or polyphenols, but the health benefits of lignan-rich foods were well observed and integrated into traditional diets and medical systems.

In Ayurveda, flaxseed (Atasi) and sesame (Til) were used for balancing vata, nourishing reproductive tissues, improving skin health, and aiding bowel regularity. Both were considered rejuvenating and supportive of fertility and hormonal vitality. Sesame oil was used topically and internally for inflammation and joint health, indirectly delivering lignan benefits.

In ancient Egypt, flax was cultivated not just for its fiber but also for its seeds, which were eaten to promote digestion and relieve constipation. Similarly, Traditional Chinese Medicine used sesame seeds to tonify yin, moisten dryness, and support kidney and liver function—actions consistent with modern observations of lignans’ hormonal and antioxidant activity.

During the Middle Ages, flaxseed was recommended by European herbalists as a demulcent and gentle laxative, while sesame was consumed across the Mediterranean and Near East as a health-promoting food.

Though the identification of lignans as phytoestrogens is recent, their long-standing use in food and medicine reflects an intuitive understanding of their health-enhancing potential—especially for hormonal and cardiovascular support. Today, lignans are researched for their role in integrative care for hormone-sensitive conditions and are increasingly included in evidence-based wellness strategies for both men and women.

Uses: Health Conditions

Alzheimer's Disease (Neither)
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (Scientific)
Breast Lumps (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Menopause (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Neither)
Osteoporosis (Scientific)
PMS (general) (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Neither)
Stress (Neither)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Weight Gain (Neither)

Body Systems

Circulatory System (Science)
Female Reproductive System (Science)
Immune System (Science)
Male Reproductive System (Science)
Arteries (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Breasts (Traditional)
Estrogen (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Ovaries (Traditional)
Prostate (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Uterus (Traditional)