Pharmacological Activities of Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed/Flaxseed)

Abstract

Linseed, originating in Mesopotamia, has been cultivated since 5000 BC, and was used up to the 1990s primarily for the production of paper and cloth. It is mainly grown for its fiber content; however, its seeds are edible and can help prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke. Linseed oil is edible and considered one of the earliest marketable oils, also used for pharmaceutical purposes. The consumption of plant estrogens in the diet reduces total plasma cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein; moreover, it is proposed to decrease the risk of CVD. Plant estrogens found in flaxseed help control heavy periods by balancing estrogen levels in the body. Linseed exerts its protective effect by shortening the duration of the cardiac action potential and the QT interval. The constituents of flaxseed oil have bioactive properties that make it more effective than recognized commercial medicines in promoting wound healing. This review article focused on the medicinal use of Flaxseed, including its role in reproductive and cardiovascular health, diarrhea, burn healing, and utility for post-menopausal women.  

Keywords: Linumusitatissimum, Linseed, Flaxseed, Pharmacology, Reproductive health, Diarrhoea, Burns, Cardiovascular health