Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Cancer Properties of Flaxseed
Agnieszka Ewa Stępień, Julia Trojniak, Jacek Tabarkiewicz
Abstract
Bioactive molecules present in plant products determine their very valuable health-promoting properties. Among the plants, due to these properties, particular attention is paid to the seeds of common flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), which have been used for over 6000 years and are known for their benefits. A review of 117 scientific articles indexed in PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library, published between 1997 and 2024, was conducted. These seeds are characterized by a high content of valuable nutrients, such as essential omega-3 fatty acids, including α-linolenic acid (ALA), lignans, isoflavones, phytoestrogens, flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals that influence the digestive system function and have anti-cancer properties. The presence of these bioactive compounds in flaxseeds provide anti-cancer properties.