Phytoestrogenic Potential of Linum usitatissimum (Flaxseed): Pharmacological Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives

Abstract

Linum usitatissimum Linn. (flaxseed; Tukhm-e-Katan) is an important medicinal and nutraceutical plant widely described in both classical Unani literature and contemporary biomedical research. Classical Unani physicians, including Ibn Sina and Zakariya al-Razi, documented its therapeutic utility in inflammatory disorders, respiratory ailments, and female reproductive conditions. In Unani medicine, Tukhm-e-Katan is recognized for its nutritive, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and restorative properties, contributing to the maintenance of humoral balance. Phytochemical investigations have identified flaxseed as a rich source of lignans, particularly secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG), along with α-linolenic acid, dietary fibre, proteins, mucilage, vitamins, and minerals. These bioactive constituents exhibit significant phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities. Experimental and clinical studies suggest beneficial effects of flaxseed in menopausal symptoms, hormone-dependent disorders, hyperlipidemia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, osteoporosis, and gastrointestinal dysfunctions. Emerging evidence also supports its role in women’s health through modulation of estrogenic pathways and oxidative stress. The present review highlights the pharmacological, nutraceutical, and phytoestrogenic potential of Linum usitatissimum while integrating evidence from modern scientific literature with traditional Unani perspectives, thereby emphasizing its therapeutic relevance in integrative and preventive medicine. Keywords: Flaxseed, Linum usitatissimum, Phytoestrogenic activity, Menopause, Atrophic Vaginitis; Phytochemicals.